We put JOSBY's popular PE braided line to the test. Read our full review on casting, strength, and durability to see if it's the right choice for you. The search for high-performance, affordable PE line is a quest for many anglers. Premium braided lines can be expensive. This has opened the door for new brands to challenge the status quo. One name that keeps popping up is JOSBY. Is JOSBY a good brand? This is the question on many anglers' minds. We decided to find out. This in-depth JOSBY fishing line review will cover everything you need to know. We will test its performance and compare it to the big names. Let's see if this is truly the best budget braid available.

First Impressions: Unboxing the JOSBY Braided Line

A line's quality can often be judged right out of the box. We looked at the packaging, how the line feels, and the overall quality of the spooling. First impressions were surprisingly positive.

Packaging and Spooling Quality

The line arrives on a well-filled, professionally wound spool. The packaging is clear and provides all the necessary information, such as strength and diameter. The spooling itself is neat and tight, which is a good sign of quality control.

Initial Feel: Smoothness and Roundness

Running the line through our fingers, the initial feel is impressive. It has a slick, smooth coating. The line has a reasonably round profile, especially for an 8-strand braid. It doesn't feel overly waxy or stiff, which is a common issue with some affordable PE lines.

A Look at the 8-Strand and 12-Strand Options

JOSBY offers both 8-strand and 12-strand braided line options. The 8-strand is their all-around workhorse. The 12-strand promises a higher level of smoothness and a rounder profile. This review will focus primarily on the popular 8-strand model.

Performance Test #1: Casting Smoothness and Distance

How a line performs on the water is what truly matters. We spooled up a reel with 20lb JOSBY 8-strand and took it to the lake. The casting performance was a standout feature.

How Does It Fly Through the Guides?

The line is remarkably quiet and smooth coming off the spool and through the rod guides. There is minimal "singing" or guide friction that you might expect from a budget braid. The smooth coating definitely helps reduce friction. This translates directly to better casting performance.

Comparing 12-Strand vs. 8-Strand Casting

While the 8-strand casts very well, the 12-strand option takes it to another level. As we discussed in our 8-strand vs 12-strand braid guide, the rounder profile of a 12-strand line further reduces friction. If maximum casting distance is your top priority, the 12-strand is worth considering.

Our Verdict on Casting Performance

For its price point, the casting performance of JOSBY braided line is exceptional. It easily competes with lines that cost significantly more. The smoothness and distance are its strongest selling points.

Performance Test #2: Knot Strength and Abrasion Resistance

A line that can't hold a knot or breaks easily is worthless. We put JOSBY's durability to the test. This is where many budget lines fail, so how did it hold up?

Testing Common Knots (Palomar and FG)

We tested the knot strength with two of the most popular braid knots: the Palomar and the FG knot. The JOSBY line cinched down well and held these knots securely. Under steady pressure, the line strength was excellent. The knot held firm without slipping, which is a crucial test for any braided line.

How It Holds Up to Rocks and Wood

We tested the abrasion resistance by rubbing the line over submerged rocks and wood. The 8-strand version proved to be quite tough. It showed good resistance to fraying from moderate contact. While it may not be as tough as the most premium, super-coated braids, its durability is more than adequate for most fishing situations.

Our Verdict on Strength and Durability

JOSBY line is surprisingly strong and durable for its price. It holds knots well and has respectable abrasion resistance. It gives an angler confidence when fishing in and around the cover.

The Big Comparison: JOSBY vs. Power Pro – Value vs. Legacy

This is the ultimate question for many: how does it compare to the benchmark, Power Pro? A direct JOSBY vs Power Pro comparison reveals some interesting insights.

Performance: Surprisingly Close

In terms of on-the-water performance like casting smoothness and sensitivity, JOSBY is surprisingly close to the legacy brand. The feel is very similar. The casting distance is excellent. The strength is reliable. Power Pro may have a slight edge in its legendary durability and consistency, but the gap is not as wide as the price difference suggests.

The Price Difference: Where JOSBY Shines

This is where the comparison becomes one-sided. JOSBY fishing line typically costs a fraction of what you would pay for Power Pro. You can often buy two or three spools of JOSBY for the price of one spool of the premium brand. This incredible value is JOSBY's main advantage.

The Verdict: Is the Legacy Brand Worth the Extra Cost?

For professional tournament anglers where every single cast counts, the proven track record of a brand like Power Pro might be worth the extra cost. However, for the vast majority of recreational anglers, JOSBY offers performance that is so close, the huge cost savings make it an incredibly compelling choice.

Final Verdict: Is JOSBY Fishing Line a Good Brand?

After extensive testing, we can confidently answer this question. Yes, JOSBY is a good brand, especially when viewed through the lens of value.

It delivers performance that punches far above its price tag. The casting is smooth, the strength is reliable, and the durability is solid. It makes high-performance braided line accessible to every angler, regardless of budget. It is without a doubt one of the best budget braid options on the market today.

This line is for the smart angler who wants excellent performance without overpaying for a name brand. It's for the beginner who wants to try braid for the first time. It's for the experienced angler who wants to fill multiple reels without breaking the bank.

Ready to experience premium performance at an unbeatable price? You can find the full range of JOSBY fishing line right here.

Have you used JOSBY line? Share your honest review in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about JOSBY Fishing Line

Where is JOSBY fishing line made?

JOSBY is a brand that leverages global manufacturing to produce high-quality fishing line at an affordable price point. They utilize modern production facilities to create PE braided lines that meet the standards of anglers worldwide.

Does JOSBY line color bleed or fade quickly?

Like most budget-friendly braided lines, some color bleeding can be expected, especially during the first few uses. However, our testing showed that the color retention is quite good for its price category. The fading is minimal and does not affect the line's performance.

What is the best JOSBY line for a beginner?

The JOSBY 8-strand braided line in 15-20lb test is an excellent choice for a beginner. It is a fantastic all-around option that is easy to manage, has great strength, and offers incredible value. It's a perfect introduction to the world of braided fishing line.

How does JOSBY's diameter compare to other brands of the same strength?

JOSBY's line diameter is very competitive and is generally true to its stated specifications. It is comparable to many other major brands, offering a thin diameter for its pound-test rating. This helps with casting distance and cutting through the water.