YGK (Y.G.K Co., Ltd., often sold as YGK Yoz-Ami) is a Japanese line maker known for its X-Braid range, built with YGK’s WX weaving method for a dense, round, very strong braid. For deep dropping and jigging, the key line is X-Braid Super Jigman X8, a metered multi-color braid sold in strengths up to 120 lb. YGK also makes the lighter metered Upgrade X8 and the heavy Full Drag X8.
This review covers each line, how its colors are marked, and where US anglers can buy it.
YGK at a glance
X-Braid Super Jigman X8
Super Jigman X8 is YGK’s jigging and deep water braid. Its WX weaving makes a dense line that is slightly stiffer than standard braid, which helps it stay round and resist tangles. A water-resistant coating reduces drag, and the dye is made to resist bleeding. In Australia it is sold with five colors (blue, pink, red, green and white) changing every 10 meters, plus a mark every meter. A US dealer describes its version as changing color every 50 feet, so check the pattern on the spool you buy.
Super Jigman X8 sizes (US bulk listing)
Strength ratings differ between markets: Australian dealers list PE 3 at 50 lb and PE 6 at 80 lb on 300 m spools (about $89.95 AUD for PE 1), while the US bulk listing above rates the same PE sizes lower. Go by the label on your spool.
X-Braid Upgrade X8
Upgrade X8 uses YGK’s Ultra 2 PE filament with a hard protective coating. YGK says it is about 40% stronger than standard braid of the same diameter. It uses a five-color “Upgrade Pentagram” pattern and comes in lighter sizes on 300 m spools, so it suits jigging and lighter deep rigs rather than filling an electric reel.
Full Drag X8
Full Drag X8 is a heavy 8-strand YGK braid. US importers list it in PE 6 and PE 8 as “12 × 100 m” packs, but publish almost no other specs, so confirm the length, color pattern and strength with the seller before buying.
Latest updates 2025–2026
- Super Jigman X8 remains YGK’s main metered braid for jigging and deep water.
- Full Drag X8 in PE 6 and PE 8 has appeared at US importers in 12 × 100 m packs.
- We found no new YGK metered braid announced for 2025–2026.
Key features
- WX weaving: a dense, round braid with high strength for its diameter.
- Metered colors: color changes every 10 m with meter marks (Australian version).
- Wide size range: PE 2 to PE 12 in the US listing.
- Coating: reduces water drag and helps colors last.
Pros and cons
Who it’s for
Where to buy
In the US, Tomo’s Tackle spools YGK Super Jigman X8 by the yard, and importers such as Evike carry YGK lines from Japan. YGK is easier to find from Australian and Japanese dealers.
Verdict
YGK X-Braid Super Jigman X8 is a top-quality Japanese braid with a wide range of sizes, and buying it by the yard makes it good value for filling an electric reel. Just check the strength and color pattern on the spool, because they vary between markets.
← Back to Braided Fishing Line Main Directory
Specs and prices are compiled from manufacturer and dealer listings in October 2026 and can change. Spotted an error? Contact us.