"Getting the line" is a phrase commonly used in fishing to refer to the moment when the fisherman feels a tug on the line and begins to reel in the catch. However, there are plenty of other ways to say the same thing. Variations on the phrase include "hooking a fish," "catching a bite," or simply "feeling a pull." Beyond fishing, other contexts where this phrase might be applicable include sports like football or basketball, where players aim to get in the right position for a pass or a shot. In these cases, "getting in position" or "getting set" might be suitable synonyms.