Spiderwire Stealth 65LB Braided Fishing Line Review

Was the Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 Worth It?

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is a braided fishing line designed for anglers who demand strength, sensitivity, and visibility. Made by Spiderwire, a respected name in fishing tackle, this line boasts Dyneema construction and a Hi-Vis Yellow color. It promises to be a game-changer for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, offering unparalleled bite detection and the muscle to haul in big catches.

I’ve spent countless hours wrestling with monofilament and fluorocarbon lines, often frustrated by their stretch and lack of sensitivity. I was searching for a line that would allow me to feel the most subtle strikes and provide the necessary backbone for battling larger, more powerful fish in heavy cover. The claims of near-zero stretch and exceptional strength of the Spiderwire Stealth immediately caught my attention.

Upon unboxing, the line felt incredibly smooth and supple. The Hi-Vis Yellow color was vibrant, definitely living up to its name. The line felt significantly thinner than monofilament or fluorocarbon of comparable strength, a characteristic that immediately suggested improved casting distance.

I considered other braided lines like PowerPro and Sufix 832, but the Spiderwire Stealth’s reputation for being exceptionally quiet through the guides and its reasonable price point ultimately swayed my decision. I was also drawn to the Spiderwire’s touted Color Lock coating technology, promising longer-lasting color and reduced fading.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Braided lines can be tricky, sometimes prone to wind knots and requiring specific knot tying techniques. However, the smoothness and advertised features of the Spiderwire Stealth gave me hope that it would live up to the hype and become my go-to line for targeting trophy fish.

Real-World Testing: Putting Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 was on a local lake known for its largemouth bass population and dense weed beds. I spooled it onto my baitcasting reel and paired it with a heavy-action rod, intending to flip and pitch jigs into the thick vegetation. The Hi-Vis Yellow color proved incredibly useful for tracking my line’s position, especially in low-light conditions.

The line performed admirably in the weedy environment. It sliced through the vegetation with ease, and the sensitivity was remarkable, allowing me to detect even the lightest taps from fish buried deep in the cover. I landed several bass, all thanks to the improved feel and raw power of the Spiderwire Stealth.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 has held up remarkably well. There is minimal fraying or fading, a testament to the durability of the Dyneema fibers and the effectiveness of the Color Lock coating. It has withstood the rigors of countless fishing trips, from battling hard-fighting fish to being dragged across abrasive rocks and submerged timber.

Maintaining the line has been straightforward. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all it typically needs. Compared to my previous experience with monofilament, which required frequent re-spooling due to memory and degradation, the Spiderwire Stealth has proven to be a much more durable and cost-effective option.

Breaking Down the Features of Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740

Specifications

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 boasts impressive specifications tailored to demanding fishing applications. It has a length of 300 yards, allowing for multiple spoolings or ample line capacity for deep-water fishing. The diameter is a mere 0.015 inches, contributing to increased casting distance and reduced water resistance.

The break strength is rated at 65 lbs, providing the muscle needed to handle large fish and heavy cover. The color is Hi-Vis Yellow, enhancing visibility above the water for improved strike detection. Finally, the type is a filler spool, meaning it’s designed for filling the majority of the reel’s capacity.

These specifications are crucial for anglers targeting larger species or fishing in challenging environments. The high break strength offers peace of mind when battling trophy fish, while the thin diameter maximizes casting performance. The Hi-Vis Yellow color allows anglers to visually detect subtle takes, especially in situations where sensitivity is paramount.

Performance & Functionality

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 excels in performance and functionality, delivering on its promises of strength, sensitivity, and visibility. Its near-zero stretch translates to exceptional bite detection, allowing anglers to feel even the faintest nibbles. The high break strength provides the confidence to muscle fish out of heavy cover and battle powerful species.

One notable strength is its smoothness through the guides, resulting in longer and more accurate casts. A minor weakness is that the Hi-Vis Yellow color can spook fish in extremely clear water; however, this is easily mitigated by using a fluorocarbon leader. Overall, the Spiderwire Stealth meets and even exceeds expectations, particularly in scenarios demanding power and sensitivity.

Design & Ergonomics

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is designed with the angler in mind. The Dyneema PE Microfiber construction is both strong and smooth, minimizing friction and maximizing casting distance. It feels light and manageable on the reel.

The line’s suppleness also contributes to improved knot tying and reduced line twist. There is a slight learning curve associated with using braided line, particularly regarding knot selection, but the benefits far outweigh the initial adjustment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is built to last. The Dyneema fibers are exceptionally resistant to abrasion and degradation. Proper care, such as rinsing with fresh water after each use, will further extend its lifespan.

Repairing braided line is generally not recommended; however, damaged sections can be cut off and re-tied without significantly compromising its overall strength. With reasonable care, this line should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is compatible with a wide range of fishing accessories. The most common customization is the addition of a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader to reduce visibility in clear water or provide added abrasion resistance near the hook. The line can be used with various reel types and rod actions, making it a versatile choice for different fishing styles.

Pros and Cons of Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740

Who Should Buy Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740?

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is perfect for anglers targeting bass, pike, musky, and other large freshwater species. It’s also well-suited for saltwater anglers pursuing species like redfish, snook, and striped bass inshore. This line excels in situations demanding sensitivity and power, making it ideal for fishing in heavy cover, deep water, or turbulent conditions.

Anglers primarily fishing in extremely clear water or those who prefer the stealth of fluorocarbon may want to consider other options. Additionally, beginners who are not yet comfortable with braid-specific knots may find it challenging to use initially. A fluorocarbon leader is a must-have accessory for most applications, as it provides added stealth and abrasion resistance near the hook.

Conclusion on Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740

The Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 is a high-performance braided fishing line that delivers on its promises of strength, sensitivity, and visibility. Its Dyneema construction and Color Lock technology ensure durability and long-lasting performance, making it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers. At $37.99, the price is justified considering the enhanced fishing experience and the ability to feel every bite.

I would personally recommend the Spiderwire Stealth to any angler seeking a reliable and sensitive braided line for targeting larger species in demanding conditions. If you’re ready to upgrade your fishing game and experience the difference that a quality braided line can make, give the Spiderwire SCS65Y-300 SPW STLTH 65LB 300YD HVYEL 1339740 a try – you won’t be disappointed!