Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 Review

First Impressions of Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 promises a robust and reliable solution for serious anglers targeting deep-water species. It’s Malin’s entry into the world of premium trolling lines, boasting solid monel construction for superior corrosion resistance and durability. The 300-foot spool arrives ready to equip your reel and get you down to where the big fish are holding.

I’ve spent years battling stubborn saltwater species, and I’ve wrestled with everything from braided line to lead core. My biggest challenge? Finding a line that can withstand the constant abrasion of deep-water structure while reliably transmitting subtle strikes from hundreds of feet down. I was hoping the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 would finally answer the call.

Upon unboxing, the wire felt solid and substantial, a stark contrast to some of the flimsy, coated lines I’ve used in the past. The bright, clean finish of the monel inspires confidence, and the even spooling suggests a smooth and trouble-free experience on the water. The Manufacturer’s claim of “soft” monel is also intriguing, promising a better feel and handling compared to traditional, stiffer wires.

Compared to lead core lines I’ve used, the Malin product appears far more resilient and less prone to kinking or damage. Against coated stainless-steel wire, the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 avoids the risk of coating failure, a common issue that can lead to corrosion and line breakage. This is a straight-up, no-nonsense product focused on delivering performance.

My initial impression is overwhelmingly positive. This seems like a well-crafted tool designed for a specific purpose, and I am genuinely excited to see how it performs under pressure. It’s clear that Malin is targeting experienced anglers who demand reliability and durability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 on a deep-sea fishing trip targeting Lake Trout in the Great Lakes. The conditions were challenging, with strong currents and depths ranging from 100 to 250 feet. I spooled the Malin wire onto a large capacity level-wind reel paired with a sturdy trolling rod.

The wire handled remarkably well, feeding smoothly off the spool with minimal memory or coiling. Even at those depths, I could easily feel the action of my lure and detect subtle strikes from the lake trout. The “soft” monel indeed felt more manageable than stiffer wires I’ve used, reducing fatigue during long trolling sessions.

Initially, I experienced no issues or surprises. The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 performed as expected, delivering excellent sensitivity and control at depth. I landed several impressive lake trout, thanks to the reliable hooksets the wire enabled.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to saltwater and hard-fighting fish. The line retains its strength and sensitivity, providing consistent performance trip after trip.

Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all it takes to keep the wire in top condition. I have noticed no kinking or fraying, even after trolling around rocky bottoms and submerged structures. It has held up admirably.

Compared to previous experiences with other trolling lines, the Malin wire significantly outperforms lead core in terms of durability and sensitivity. It offers a more direct connection to the lure and a more reliable performance than coated stainless steel, making it a superior choice for serious anglers. This is a product that delivers on its promises.

Breaking Down the Features of Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806

Specifications

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and reliability. It features a solid monel construction, offering exceptional corrosion resistance in both fresh and saltwater environments. The Manufacturer packages it in 300-foot spools, adequate for most deep trolling applications.

The Color is listed as “Brite”, referring to the natural, uncolored finish of the monel alloy. The Weight is specified as 0.2 oz (likely a per-foot measurement), indicating a good balance between strength and manageability. Its Length is a standard 300 feet. Monel is known for its high tensile strength and resistance to stretching, which is critical for maintaining consistent depth control while trolling.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the wire’s ability to withstand the harsh conditions of deep-water fishing and transmit subtle strikes from distant fish. The Monel Line Type means this wire is not susceptible to rust, an essential feature for prolonged use in saltwater environments. These features contribute to a better user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 excels in its primary job: providing a reliable and sensitive connection to your lure at depth. Its low stretch and high tensile strength allow for precise depth control and immediate hooksets, even when trolling at significant distances. The “soft” temper of the monel makes it more manageable on the reel, reducing the risk of kinks and tangles.

The wire’s strength and corrosion resistance are significant strengths. Its high cost compared to other types of fishing line might be seen as a weakness for some anglers. However, the superior performance and durability justify the investment for serious deep-water trollers.

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 meets and exceeds expectations for anglers seeking a premium trolling line that can withstand the rigors of deep-water fishing. It provides superior performance and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 is excellent, as expected from a product manufactured by Malin. The monel alloy is consistent in diameter and free from imperfections, ensuring smooth and reliable performance on the reel. The wire’s natural metallic sheen is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing good visibility in low-light conditions.

There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using this wire. Any experienced angler familiar with trolling techniques will find it easy to spool, rig, and fish.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 should last for many seasons of heavy use. Monel is inherently resistant to corrosion and wear, making it an ideal material for demanding fishing applications. Rinsing with fresh water after each use is sufficient to maintain its performance and longevity.

Repairing monel wire is generally not practical due to its inherent properties and the specialized tools required. However, the wire’s durability minimizes the need for repairs in the first place.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 itself does not come with any specific accessories. However, its compatibility with standard trolling reels and terminal tackle allows for extensive customization. Anglers can pair it with various swivels, snaps, and leaders to create a personalized trolling setup.

The wire is compatible with a wide range of trolling reels from various manufacturers, making it a versatile choice for anglers with existing equipment. Crimping tools and sleeves are essential for creating strong and reliable connections with terminal tackle. You can make this your own.

Pros and Cons of Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806

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Who Should Buy Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806?

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 is perfect for: Pro Anglers and serious recreational anglers who frequently target deep-water species such as lake trout, salmon, and tuna will benefit most from its superior performance and durability. Charter captains and guides who rely on their equipment to perform flawlessly day after day will also appreciate its reliability. These types of anglers require the best.

Who should skip this product? Anglers who only occasionally troll in shallow water or who are on a tight budget may find the cost of monel wire prohibitive. Novice anglers who are still learning the basics of trolling may be better served by more affordable line options. These types of anglers might not see the value.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Crimping tools and sleeves are essential for creating secure connections with terminal tackle. A high-quality level-wind reel with sufficient line capacity is also recommended.

Conclusion on Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806

The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 is a premium trolling line that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and reliability. While it comes at a higher cost than other options, its superior characteristics justify the investment for serious anglers who demand the best. This is a top-tier product.

The price is justified by its longevity, sensitivity, and strength. If you’re a professional angler this wire will pay for itself in increased hookups and consistent performance.

I would personally recommend it to any angler looking to upgrade their trolling setup and gain a competitive edge. The Malin Soft Monel Trolling Wire 86806 is a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in terms of increased catches and more enjoyable fishing experiences. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference Malin quality makes!