Can you create a fishing line with paracord inner strands?

Preparing the Inner Strands

To create a fishing line from paracord inner strands, start by removing the outer sheath and isolating the individual inner strands. Typically, paracord has 7-9 inner strands, each about 1mm in diameter. You can use any number of these strands, but using 3-5 strands will provide a good balance between strength and flexibility.

Braiding the Strands

To braid the inner strands into a fishing line, you can use a simple over-under pattern. Begin by holding two strands in each hand and crossing them over each other, then add a third strand, crossing it over the other two. Continue adding strands and repeating the pattern until you reach the desired length. For a line with moderate strength, use a 3-strand braid with a 2-inch loop for a fly or lure attachment. For a stronger line, use a 5-strand braid with a 3-inch loop.

Attaching a Hook or Lure

To attach a hook or lure to your paracord fishing line, use a simple loop knot or a barrel knot. The loop knot is quick and easy to tie, but it can come undone under tension, while the barrel knot is more secure but requires more time to tie. To tie a loop knot, pass the end of the line through the loop, then wrap it around the standing part of the line and pass it through the loop again. Pull the end tight to secure the knot. For a barrel knot, wrap the end of the line around the standing part 4-5 times, then pass it through the loop and pull it tight.