Fluorocarbon Fishing Line vs Leader Line
Fluorocarbon fishing line vs leader line is a very hard topic as far as finding out their difference is concerned. But in this article, an attempt has been made to bring out some major points of difference between two fishing lines. There is no second opinion about the reputation of fluorocarbon fishing lines as all industries dealing in fishing lines shower praises on it.
The fluorocarbon fishing line has been in use for decades now. The advantages fluorocarbon fishing line carries with it are numerous and they are well-known to every fishing-lover. However, the thing that needs to be focused on is its technique of use. Similarly, in this article, an attempt has also been made to enable anglers to choose the best between the fluorocarbon fishing line vs leader line.
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line vs Leader Line: Difference
Now, we try to highlight some key points of difference between the two lines.
Fluorocarbon Line
If, as an angler, you are aware of monofilament fishing line, then you will not have to take long to understand that fluorocarbon fishing line is almost similar to monofilament fishing line [made from polyvinylidene fluoride or PVDF] with some added features that make fluorocarbon fishing line a better choice than the previous one. The features of fluorocarbon fishing line are mentioned below:
- Fluorocarbon fishing line is invisible underwater because of its easier transmission of light than monofilament line. This feature is key while fishing in crystal clear waters.
- Fluorocarbon fishing line is both waterproof as well as UV resistant. Therefore, it is guaranteed that it will not wear away under severe water or sun conditions which will prevent anglers a quick replacement of the fishing line. Although, it is expensive quality cannot be compromised over money.
- The quality of fluorocarbon fishing line as abrasion-resistant enables it to fight predatory fish with long teeth.
It is worth mentioning here that fluorocarbon has two types available: Fluorocarbon mainline vs leader line.
This is our point of concern which we will focus more on in our upcoming discussion. If both are manufactured from the same thing, they do contain price differences. The leader line is pricier than the main line. Why?
Both Fluorocarbon Fishing Line vs Leader Line different from each other in the following respects:
- Both the lines are made from different materials. As far as fluorocarbon mainline is concerned, it is made from a polymer having the same properties throughout the line. While the leader line has extra substances added to it to improve its performance. These substances make the line flexible, stretchy, and stiffer.
- Secondly, the material used to make the leader line is abrasion-resistant as compared to the fluorocarbon mainline. Hence, the leader line gets stiffer [as already mentioned]. This feature proves beneficial during bottom fishing; making the presentation attractive underwater.
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line vs Leader Line: Which to Choose?
Anglers assume that the leader line is better than the fluorocarbon fishing line which is wrong, unfortunately. But it should be kept in mind that fluorocarbon fishing line has properties that are more attractive even if they are cheaper. These properties include:
- Strength.
- Abrasion-resistant.
- Strength of knot.
These features justify the use of fluorocarbon fishing lines in all situations.
The leader line is not bad but is one of the most expensive ones in the market. If we look at just the spool of both fishing lines, the spool of the leader line is double or even quadruple the price of fluorocarbon fishing line and these prices are not expected to come down. Therefore, spending extra money for a little advantage is not a wise bargain.
Exception
Well, there are some situations when the use of a leader line can be preferred. These situations include:
- The leader line is suitable when you are to fight with a heavy-sized fish of 40+ pounds weight because not only the leader line is strong but also abrasion and shock-resistant. The treacherous fish include striped bass, snook or even tarpon.
- Moreover, the leader line can afford more force, you can size it down to make its presentation look more natural. Additionally, the line visibility can be reduced as well to attract fish.
- While doing bottom fishing around heavy covers, thick grasses, or bridge pilings, the use of a leader line is advised due to its abrasion and shock-resistance characteristics. Likewise, the chances of losing the lure are also very low.
Conclusion
The fluorocarbon fishing line vs leader line has a very thin line in between to differentiate them as both of them are made of almost similar material. The anglers prefer the fluorocarbon line more than the leader line due to its lower price but with the same features as the leader line. The leader line is only useful when you come across heavy fish in deep water. Therefore, it is not wise to spend extra money for nothing.
FAQs
What are the benefits of a leader line?
Ans. The leader line is suitable when you are to fight with a heavy-sized fish of 40+ pounds weight because not only the leader line is strong but also abrasion and shock-resistant. The treacherous fish include striped bass, snook, and even tarpon.
Moreover, the leader line can afford more force, you can size it down to make its presentation look more natural. Additionally, the line visibility can be reduced as well to attract fish.
Why the leader line is more expensive?
Ans. The features of the leader line being abrasion and shock-resistant make it more expensive.
When should the fluorocarbon line be used?
Ans. The ideal time for using the fluorocarbon fishing line is when water condition is clear and fish are over-pressured in particular locations.
