Mastering the Art of Braiding with Excel Braid: A Comprehensive Guide

Braiding with Excel Braid offers an exciting and creative way to enhance your fishing experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, learning the art of braiding can take your fishing skills to new heights. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of Excel Braid, providing you with the knowledge and techniques to master the art of braiding and create strong, reliable fishing lines.

Understanding Excel Braid

Excel Braid is a popular fishing line known for its exceptional strength and durability. Made from high-quality materials, it boasts a unique braiding pattern that sets it apart from traditional monofilament or fluorocarbon lines. The braiding process imparts several advantages, making it a preferred choice for anglers seeking performance and reliability.

• Strength and Abrasion Resistance: The braiding technique used in Excel Braid creates a line with exceptional strength, able to withstand the toughest fighting fish. Its braided construction also provides excellent abrasion resistance, making it ideal for fishing in rugged environments or around sharp structures.

• Sensitivity and Control: Excel Braid’s thin diameter and low stretch properties enhance sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bites or nudges from fish. This sensitivity, combined with its controlled castability, gives you precise control over your lure or bait.

• Versatility: Available in a wide range of colors and breaking strengths, Excel Braid caters to various fishing applications. Whether you’re targeting small panfish or battling large predators, there’s an Excel Braid option suited to your needs.

Choosing the Right Excel Braid

Selecting the appropriate Excel Braid for your fishing style and target species is crucial. Consider the following factors when making your choice:

• Breaking Strength: Excel Braid is available in various breaking strengths, typically ranging from 10 to 100 pounds. Choose a breaking strength that aligns with the size and strength of the fish you typically encounter.

• Diameter: The diameter of Excel Braid affects its casting distance and sensitivity. Thinner diameters offer improved sensitivity and longer casts, making them ideal for finesse fishing or when targeting shy fish.

• Color: Excel Braid comes in a variety of colors, including camouflage, green, and clear. Select a color that blends well with your fishing environment to maximize stealth and reduce the chances of fish spotting your line.

• Brand and Quality: Excel Braid is offered by various reputable brands, each with its own unique features and benefits. Research and choose a brand that aligns with your preferences and budget.

Step-by-Step Guide to Braiding with Excel Braid

Now, let’s dive into the process of braiding your own Excel Braid fishing line. This step-by-step guide will ensure you achieve a professional-looking and functional braid:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

• Excel Braid: Choose the desired breaking strength and color of Excel Braid for your project.
• Fishing Line: Select a suitable monofilament or fluorocarbon line as your main line.
• Braiding Tool: Invest in a quality braiding tool or rig, such as a braiding board or clamp, to simplify the braiding process.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for precise cutting and trimming of the Excel Braid.
• Fishing Swivels: Swivels are necessary to prevent line twist and ensure smooth casting.
• Line Connectors: Use quality line connectors, such as crimp sleeves or snap swivels, to securely attach the Excel Braid to your main line.

Step 2: Prepare the Main Line

• Begin by tying a secure knot at the end of your main line. A Palomar knot or Improved Clinch knot works well for this purpose.
• Leave a length of 12-18 inches of excess line beyond the knot. This excess line will be used to braid the Excel Braid onto the main line.

Step 3: Attach the Excel Braid

• Cut a length of Excel Braid approximately twice the length of your main line.
• Secure one end of the Excel Braid to the braiding tool or rig. Ensure it is firmly attached to prevent slipping during the braiding process.
• Take the other end of the Excel Braid and attach it to the excess main line using a secure knot, such as a Uni-to-Uni knot or a Back-to-Back knot.

Step 4: Start Braiding

• Position the braiding tool or rig at the desired starting point on your main line.
• Begin braiding the Excel Braid onto the main line, ensuring an even and tight braid.
• Use the braiding tool or rig to guide and secure the Excel Braid as you work your way along the main line.
• Maintain a consistent tension and ensure the braid is smooth and free of tangles.

Step 5: Finish the Braid

• Once you reach the end of your main line, secure the Excel Braid with a final knot, such as a Uni-to-Uni knot or a Back-to-Back knot.
• Trim any excess Excel Braid, leaving a small tail to prevent fraying.
• Apply a small amount of super glue or fishing line glue to the knots to ensure a strong and durable connection.

Step 6: Attach Swivels and Connectors

• Attach fishing swivels to the braided line at regular intervals to prevent line twist and ensure smooth casting.
• Use line connectors to securely attach the braided line to your lure or leader, ensuring a reliable connection.

Tips for Successful Braiding

• Practice Makes Perfect: Braiding takes practice and patience. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts are not perfect. With time and experience, you’ll master the technique and create seamless braids.

• Maintain Tension: Consistency is key when braiding. Maintain even tension on the Excel Braid to ensure a smooth and tight braid.

• Use Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality braiding tools and connectors to ensure a secure and durable braid. Cheap or low-quality tools may result in weak connections or difficult braiding.

• Keep It Clean: Ensure your braiding area is clean and free of debris. A clean workspace makes the braiding process more efficient and reduces the risk of tangles or knots.

• Test Your Braid: Once you’ve completed the braiding process, test the strength and durability of your braid by pulling on it with force. This will help identify any weak spots or areas that require adjustment.

Advanced Braiding Techniques

For anglers seeking an extra edge, there are advanced braiding techniques to consider:

• Fused Braids: Create a seamless and ultra-strong braid by fusing the Excel Braid with a hot knife or fusion tool. This technique eliminates the need for knots and provides a sleek, professional finish.

• Braided Leaders: Consider adding a braided leader to your setup for increased sensitivity and abrasion resistance. A braided leader can be attached to the end of your main line, providing an extra layer of protection against sharp teeth or abrasive environments.

• Color Combinations: Experiment with different color combinations of Excel Braid to create unique and eye-catching braids. This can be especially useful for targeting specific fish species or fishing in low-light conditions.

Maintaining Your Excel Braid

To ensure the longevity and performance of your Excel Braid, proper maintenance is essential:

• Rinse and Dry: After each fishing trip, rinse your Excel Braid with fresh water to remove any salt, dirt, or debris. Allow it to air dry completely before storing it.

• Reel Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean your fishing reel to ensure smooth line retrieval and prevent line damage.

• Replace When Necessary: Excel Braid, like any fishing line, will eventually wear out. Inspect your line regularly for signs of damage, such as fraying or nicks. Replace your Excel Braid when it shows signs of wear to maintain optimal performance.

• Store Properly: Store your Excel Braid in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in extreme temperatures or humid environments, as this can affect its performance and durability.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

• How do I prevent line twist when using Excel Braid?

  • Incorporate fishing swivels at regular intervals along your braided line to prevent line twist and ensure smooth casting.

• Can I use Excel Braid for all types of fishing?

  • Excel Braid is versatile and suitable for various fishing applications, from freshwater to saltwater fishing. However, it’s essential to choose the appropriate breaking strength and diameter for your specific fishing needs.

• How often should I replace my Excel Braid?

  • Regularly inspect your Excel Braid for signs of wear, such as fraying or nicks. Replace it when necessary to maintain its strength and performance. The frequency of replacement depends on usage and fishing conditions.

• What if my Excel Braid becomes tangled?

  • If your Excel Braid becomes tangled, carefully untangle it by hand or use a line comb to gently work out the knots. Avoid using excessive force or cutting the line, as this may weaken the braid.

• Can I use Excel Braid as a leader material?

  • Yes, Excel Braid can be an excellent choice for creating leaders. Its strength and abrasion resistance make it ideal for protecting your main line from sharp teeth or abrasive environments.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of braiding with Excel Braid opens up a world of possibilities for anglers seeking enhanced performance and reliability. By understanding the benefits of Excel Braid, choosing the right line, and following the step-by-step braiding guide, you can create custom fishing lines tailored to your specific needs. Remember to practice, maintain your braid, and explore advanced techniques to take your fishing experience to new heights. Happy braiding, and tight lines!

FAQ

What is the recommended breaking strength for Excel Braid when targeting bass?

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When targeting bass, a breaking strength of 20 to 30 pounds is generally recommended for Excel Braid. This provides sufficient strength to handle the average bass while allowing for sensitivity and control.

Can I use Excel Braid for fly fishing?

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Yes, Excel Braid can be used for fly fishing. Its thin diameter and low stretch properties make it an excellent choice for fly lines, providing improved sensitivity and castability.

How often should I replace my Excel Braid leader?

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Excel Braid leaders should be replaced when they show signs of wear or damage. Inspect your leaders regularly for fraying, nicks, or cuts. As a general guideline, replace your leaders every 6-12 months or more frequently if you fish heavily or in abrasive environments.

Are there any specific knots I should use when attaching Excel Braid to my main line or leader?

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Yes, when attaching Excel Braid to your main line or leader, it’s recommended to use strong and reliable knots such as the Uni-to-Uni knot, Back-to-Back knot, or Albright knot. These knots provide a secure connection and help maintain the strength of your braided line.

Can I use Excel Braid for ice fishing?

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Absolutely! Excel Braid is an excellent choice for ice fishing due to its strength and abrasion resistance. It can handle the harsh conditions of ice fishing and provide reliable performance when targeting species like walleye or pike.