First Impressions of Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line promises to be a game-changer for ice anglers seeking the ultimate in sensitivity and ice resistance. Ardent, a brand known for innovation in fishing gear, claims that this line offers a unique blend of monofilament and braid characteristics. The promise of near-zero stretch and a thinner diameter than braid, while still resisting ice buildup, immediately grabbed my attention, as I’ve struggled with line management in freezing conditions for years.
My pursuit of the perfect ice fishing line stems from countless frustrating experiences with stiff, memory-prone monofilament and water-absorbing, ice-collecting braid. I needed a line that could transmit the faintest nibbles through thick gloves and wouldn’t freeze solid on my reel after a few hours. The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line seemed to potentially solve these problems.
Upon receiving the line, the first thing I noticed was its smooth, almost waxy texture. The green color is a subtle, natural hue, blending well with the underwater environment. It feels significantly thinner than my typical 8 lb monofilament and more supple than any braid I’ve used for ice fishing.
Compared to Berkley Trilene Cold Weather (monofilament) and Sufix 832 Ice Braid, the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line stands out for its low diameter and claimed ice-resistant properties. I chose this line because of the unique combination of features and Ardent’s reputation for quality. My first impression is cautiously optimistic; the line feels promising, but the true test will be on the ice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line on a bitterly cold January day on Lake Simcoe, targeting lake trout and whitefish. Temperatures hovered around -15°C (5°F) with a steady wind, creating harsh conditions that would quickly expose any weaknesses in the line. I paired the 8 lb test line with a lightweight spinning reel and a tungsten jig.
The line performed remarkably well in the frigid conditions. It cast smoothly from the small ice fishing reel, exhibiting minimal memory. The sensitivity was immediately apparent, transmitting subtle taps from finicky whitefish even through my thick gloves.
There were no immediate issues; however, I did notice a slight learning curve when tying knots. The line’s slick texture required extra care to ensure secure knots; a Palomar knot seemed to work best.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line continues to impress. The line exhibits minimal wear and tear, even after battling several feisty lake trout. It has proven far more durable than I initially anticipated.
I’ve noticed very little fraying or degradation, even after repeated contact with sharp ice edges. Maintenance is simple; I just wipe the line down with a dry cloth after each use. Compared to my previous experiences with monofilament that becomes brittle and braid that absorbs water and freezes, the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line has far outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line
Specifications
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line is constructed from high modulus polyethylene fibers using a breakthrough extrusion process. This gives it the qualities of both monofilament and braid. The Manufacturer is Ardent.
- Line Type: Mono-Fluoro blend. This suggests a coating or treatment that enhances the line’s slickness and water repellency.
- Color: Green. The subtle green color is designed to blend with the underwater environment, minimizing visibility to fish.
- Fabric/Material: Polyethylene. This strong, lightweight material is known for its abrasion resistance and low stretch.
- Length: 150 yds. The 150-yard spool is a standard length suitable for most ice fishing reels.
- Additional Features: 10 pitches/cm. This refers to the density of the braid, indicating a tightly woven construction for enhanced strength and sensitivity.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the line’s performance in cold weather. The low stretch and thin diameter enhance sensitivity, allowing anglers to detect subtle strikes. The polyethylene construction and potential coating contribute to ice resistance, preventing the line from freezing and becoming unmanageable.
Performance & Functionality
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line performs exceptionally well in its intended purpose: ice fishing. Its low stretch provides excellent sensitivity. This allows anglers to detect even the most subtle bites.
The line’s thin diameter and smooth texture enable long, effortless casts, even with lightweight jigs. While the knot tying requires some practice, the overall usability is excellent. The line meets and often exceeds my expectations for ice fishing performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line features a thoughtfully designed construction that prioritizes performance. The polyethylene material contributes to the line’s lightweight feel and strength. It makes the line comfortable to handle even in sub-zero temperatures.
The smooth texture reduces friction, improving casting distance and sensitivity. There is a slight learning curve with knot tying due to the slickness. However, once mastered, the line is easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line demonstrates impressive durability. Even after repeated use in harsh conditions, it shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The polyethylene construction is resistant to abrasion and UV damage.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down after each use is typically sufficient. The line’s resistance to water absorption reduces the likelihood of freezing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line does not come with any specific accessories. However, its performance can be optimized by pairing it with a high-quality ice fishing reel. Proper knot selection is crucial for maximizing the line’s strength and preventing slippage. There are no modifications possible with this line, but it can be used on any standard ice fishing reel.
Pros and Cons of Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line
Pros
- Ultimate sensitivity allows for detection of the slightest strikes, especially crucial for finicky winter fish.
- Superior line management minimizes tangles and memory, ensuring smooth casting and retrieval in cold conditions.
- Thinner than braid reduces water resistance and drag, improving lure presentation and sensitivity.
- Comparable strength to braid provides ample power for landing larger fish while maintaining a low-diameter profile.
- Round to resist ice buildup prevents the line from freezing solid, maintaining flexibility and manageability in sub-zero temperatures.
Cons
- The slick texture can make knot tying challenging; requiring practice and careful attention.
- The green color may not be ideal for all water conditions, potentially limiting its versatility in clearer waters.
Who Should Buy Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line?
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line is perfect for avid ice anglers who prioritize sensitivity, line management, and ice resistance. It is also a great option for those targeting species that require finesse presentations, such as whitefish, perch, and walleye. This line is also ideal for those looking for a braid alternative with less water retention.
Anglers who prefer the traditional feel of monofilament or who are uncomfortable with specialized knot tying should skip this product. Those fishing in extremely clear water where line visibility is a major concern might also want to consider alternative options. A good pair of line clippers and a knot-tying tool are must-have accessories for this line.
Conclusion on Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line
The Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line is a significant advancement in ice fishing line technology. Its unique blend of properties addresses the common challenges faced by ice anglers. Its sensitivity, ice resistance, and smooth handling make it a top contender in the category.
At $14.99 for 150 yards, the price is justified by the improved performance and durability. It is more expensive than standard monofilament but offers significant advantages in sensitivity and ice resistance. I would personally recommend the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line to any serious ice angler looking to elevate their game.
Upgrade your ice fishing setup with the Ardent Gliss Ice Polyethylene Fishing Line and experience the difference!