As you can clearly see, there is no one-size-fits-all conclusion to the never-ending debate between monofilament and fluorocarbon fishing lines. Monofilament stretches much more than fluorocarbon – up to 25% in some cases. So is fluorocarbon invisible? A good amount of stretch helps to absorb the shock while the fish reacts vehemently, when you are trying to catch it. Surfperch Fishing to Heat Up in the Month Ahead, Leopard Shark Fishing: Sharks in Southern California, Less stretch than mono but still some stretch, Less visible (closest refraction index to that of water). I would steer clear of any sort of “fluoro-coated” lines. © 2021 Developed By, The best feature of fluorocarbon is its lack of visibility, and this gives the best advantage to fluorocarbon fishing line over the nylon monofilament line. Many aspects are to be considered when talking from the viewpoint of strength. Main Difference – Monofilament vs Fluorocarbon. I’ve used Seaguar Red Label (which is a main-line fluorocarbon line) as my leader line for as long as I can remember and it’s worked just fine for me. Connected to Monofilament which gives you the shock absorption and stretch, followed by ten meters or about 30 ft of Fluorocarbon as leader, tied to lures or hooks of course. These terms are mostly related to their major application – use as fishing lines. http://bit.ly/3pCsMqQ Anglers have an endless choice to look into varying from rods and reels to lures, plastics, weights, and so many more. Mono does come with it’s share of issues, with memory being the biggest. All modern fishing lines have their pros and cons and the best way of knowing which one is better for you is experimenting and exploring different fishing lines by yourself. This means that under similar tensions, the fluorocarbon should be better at transmitting that energy (of a bite) to the angler, and the angler using fluorocarbon would be better at transmitting the energy from a … Fluorocarbon is about 2/3 more dense than nylon monofilament. Some people will run just Mono and Fluoro leaving the Braid out of the equation with any variance the angler may desire. It’s important to note that refraction indeces can vary depending on a multitude of factors including temperature. A fishing line is a thin thread-like structure (a cord) used in fishing. 30 lb Fluorocarbon (Vanish): Sink rate of 2.1 seconds. You’ll be much less likely to break off as a … Always check your line before heading out on a trip somewhere. There isn’t much more to that topic, but yes, fluorocarbon line will sink while mono will float (on it’s own). Instead of deciding which is better for your unique situation, I’ll break it down by concepts. Monofilament stretches well. With that in mind, here are the numbers (corresponding average refraction indeces): What the heck do those number mean, huh? Fluorocarbon vs. monofilament, which is the most dense? Being Nomadic is a reader-supported blog. Durability. Monofilament is probably the most manageable of the three varieties. This … http://bit.ly/3pCsMqQ You can pull a large bass, for example, out of heavy vegetation like lily pads with fluorocarbon line, whereas monofilament may snap under the same amount of pressure. Fluorocarbon vs. Monofilament Contest!! Fluorocarbon has a greater density than monofilament, resulting in a line that is harder, stiffer, and more abrasion resistant — three factors that contribute to the overall strength of a line. Line-visibility is determined by refraction indeces (indexes) and the goal is to come as close as possible to the same refraction index of water itself. It is one of the vital aspects to consider the knotability conditions while choosing a fishing line which most of the anglers happen to overlook. Co-polymers have less stretch than typical monofilament lines. Cons of a Monofilament Line. 20 lb Monofilament (Berkley): Sink rate of 5.5 seconds. If you’re a big believer in fish being line shy, than fluorocarbon is a must-have for you. I’ll make some adjustments to my tackle based upon this info. If you’re a big believer in fish being line shy, than fluorocarbon is a must-have for you. Some lines may even test better with different knots, so a knot that works well for one line may not work as well or be as strong with another brand of line. Fluorocarbon allows a greater amount of natural light to pass through it whereas monofilament tends to refract light, alerting fish of its presence. Anglers can use fluorocarbon as leader material when fishing super braids and also monofilament. That concept right there could be a real money-saver for a lot of you. The monofilaments are very much flexible in nature which helps to have high knotting capabilities. Using a monofilament leader should give you better results for that. If you are fishing in chop or a riffle your fly will be pulled under even faster because the surface tension on the line is broken relatively quickly. Is fluoro better than mono? This property also makes fluoro the optimal line for fishing all sorts of crankbaits. This was a question I came across when I was just starting to use fluorocarbon and there’s a very simple answer. Because fluorocarbon is almost twice as expensive as monofilament, this line is still best used as leader material in many applications. This means that it has a higher forgiveness factor built in that fluorocarbon doesn’t have. Im just not sure why you wouldnt at least do a 20lb main line along with a 15lb leader…or 15lb main 15lb leader? The main point here is that even if you’re just using fluorocarbon as a leader, you don’t need to spend loads of money to get the leader-specific types of fluorocarbon, just get the normal (main-line type) fluorocarbon… as long as it’s 100% fluorocarbon. This helps greatly against abrasion on the bottom, or, when the fish develop sharp teeth in the latter end of the season. Strength – The strength of fishing line is measured by how much pressure it can withstand before breaking. This is the big one. If your rod is a bit too stiff, you’ll actually feel your bites too quickly, in my opinion, which often results in a premature hookset before the bass has a chance to get the hooks in its mouth. GOOD JOB !! In simple terms, it can be said that fluorocarbon fishing line low visibility due to the, If you are a regular angler, you are bound to know how elastic the monofilaments are, and with a simple grasp at each end and with a pull, it can be stretched enormously. For the longest time, I wondered what the difference was and why some fluorocarbon costed upwards of $0.50 per yard (leader line) while others costed less than $0.10 per yard (main line). Fluorocarbon is also the best material for leaders on lead core, copper line and weighted steel line set ups. In this blog he shares his outdoor experiences in field like hiking, camping, fishing and more. So, for that reason, I went with the 20lb on the off-chance I’d need a little extra abrasion resistance for that leader portion if I hooked into a toothy fish or shark on light tackle. Important Factors of Fishing Line. He likes to visit new places, meet new people and learn new culture and language. Monofilaments and fluorocarbon are polymers that are made by the polymerization of certain monomers. I switch to 15 every once in a while and no problems there too. Fluorocarbon Line vs Fluorocarbon Leader. They have become quite popular in the market, and many times people make the mistake of getting confused between the two. Not only is it dense, but it’s also extremely durable. Rocky loves to live a nomadic life, and he loves travelling a lot. For this reason, it’s a popular choice for deep trolling, bottom fishing and any other style of fishing that might benefit from a quick-sinking bait or lure. Monofilament lines are cheap, reliable, and offer great shock absorption when used properly.Fluorocarbon fishing lines, on the other hand, have a greater density than monolines, sink a lot faster, and offer a better feel of your bait and deliver high abrasion resistance. Seaguar and many other fluorocarbon brands offer salt water specific lines, but after doing my research, I’m convinced that it isn’t necessary. 1.Visibility. Fluorocarbon is a denser, non-toxic, single-strand alternative to monofilament, produced from a non-reactive specialty plastic used in many applications, including tubing, sheeting, films, wire insulation, and of course, fishing line. Fluorocarbon is much more resistant to these conditions over the long term. Fluorocarbon, although more expensive, can give the angler a better material for certain tactics - on the other hand you can be out-fished by another guy fishing mono if it's the right situation. Plus, while the sun's harsh ultraviolet rays weaken nylon over time, fluorocarbon shrugs off UV with no ill-effects. Yes, fluorocarbon does sink as it’s engineering causes it to be denser than monofilament. You will see that both of these are the same Lb test and the same diameter however they have a few different qualities In most cases though, I’ll just buy a regular spool of 150 yards of fluorocarbon as use that as my leader. In contrast, the fluorocarbon lines are much bigger in size and expensive and can be used by an experienced angler. From the above discussion of Monofilament vs Fluorocarbon, one thing is clear that there is no definite answer as to which of the two materials ranks above the other. In monofilaments, it is seen that they have a proneness to greater diamantes and also have neutral buoyancy that helps it in the slow sinking and eventually affects how profound the bait is. To get more line on the spool? January 19, 2021 January 19, 2021 Admin. Seaguar (the brand that invented fluorocarbon) puts it like this, “you can paint a red car with a clear coat, but you’ll still see the red through it”. Fluorocarbon is a family of synthetics and compounds including fluorine, chlorine, and carbon that is extruded into a single strand similar to monofilament. Extrusion is the process of taking the liquid form of a substance and pushing it through a tiny hole, in order to create a single filament, or mono -filament, of line. Its larger diameter and major stretch works for our bass or panfish presentations such … The best feature of fluorocarbon is its lack of visibility, and this gives the best advantage to fluorocarbon fishing line over the nylon monofilament line. Again, fluorocarbon is water-resistant and hence cannot absorb water all through. The main reason fluorocarbon has become so popular in the fishing world is because it’s said to be virtually invisible underwater. In fact, I’ve seen a myriad of tests that give the edge to monofilament. If you set the hook too hard, the line will stretch and is … Surprisingly, for light tackle, many anglers use between 1/2-1 ounce and usually no heavier. rays, rain and humidity, and extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) can cause monofilament to break down and lose strength. Sale. But why? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Monofilament vs. Fluorocarbon Fishing Lines Leave a Comment / Knowledge Base / By Topy Adriel When it comes to deciding which line is better, it might be a bit difficult as both are favored by a large number of anglers, and depending on who you ask, you will get a different answer. Enter your email to receive notifications for new fishing reports. Monofilament fishing line has a lot more stretch than modern fluorocarbon, so it can help compensate for the lack of “give” in your cranking setup. Just something I’ve done. Mono Vs. Fluorocarbon Leader Material In our video below we talk about a few differences between the monofilament fishing line and fluorocarbon fishing line as leader material. Surf Fishing: Lures or C-Rig Best in the Winter? Possibly the most shocking finding in doing my homework on this subject was the overwhelming consensus that fluorocarbon “leader line” might be no more abrasion resistant than fluorocarbon “main line”. To your point, I’d say 15 on 15 is a more logical setup. An anglers’ favorite or best fishing line is subjective. It gives the greater density, offering a better feel of your bait and delivers high abrasion resistance. An angler’s fishing line of choice depends on their inclination regarding desired feel and budget. Over the long term, fluorocarbon is extremely resistant to the elements as well, unlike monofilament. Words + Photo: Josh Thelin Monofilaments are cheap and reliable and a great option for an average user. Toughness—Fluorocarbon is more abrasion resistant than standard nylon monofilament of the same diameter. Get updates on local catches. Monofilament vs Fluorocarbon: If you are into fishing, you are very well aware that your fishing line is the only connection you have with the fish in the water. But, there have been many tests suggesting fluoro is no more abrasion resistant than mono. Here we will be discussing Monofilament vs Fluorocarbon, so don’t miss it. Here we have discussed difference between monofilament and fluorocarbon. This line always gathers memory from sitting on your reel, so it is harder to cast and control. But in a case when the catch is not that aggressive, the less stretch helps with the right amount of sensitivity. If you are a regular angler, you are bound to know how elastic the monofilaments are, and with a simple grasp at each end and with a pull, it can be stretched enormously. It is very important to do thorough research and select a material with great knotting attributes as the knot happens to be the weakest link in your entire setup. Most of the people into fishing prefer using braided fishing line as it is by far the strongest and many consider it to be the best. Waterproof—Unlike mono and some superlines, fluoro doesn't absorb water. If you search for fluorocarbon, there’s a chance you’ll come across fluorocarbon coated monofilaments. Small dry flies or dries with sparse hackles will be pulled under the surface by fluorocarbon-based tippet and leaders. But in a case when the catch is not that aggressive, the less stretch helps with the right amount of sensitivity. There’re places and times where both lines can be utilized. Conversely, monofilament floats like a cork; it is nylon after all. The greater density of fluorocarbon than water makes its sinking nature acute. Adding a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader will provide stretch so that fish don’t shake the hook. THANKS FOR THE ARTICLE NICK, THAT’S SOME GOOD RESEARCH. But to conclude, it can be said that both can be used with much success and significance depending on your choice of the fishing condition, fish type and the budget you have in mind. When you purchase anything via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission without costing you anything extra. In this regard, when it comes to knotability features, the monofilament lies far ahead and is superior to fluorocarbon by a huge margin. In simple terms, it can be said that fluorocarbon fishing line low visibility due to the light refractive index that is similar to that of freshwater and much useful in fishing techniques. Well, light actually bends when it passes through things, and things with higher indeces (from 1), cause the light to bend more. Fluorocarbon on the other hand is highly resistant to UV rays and will last 5-7 years before you will need to replace it. If you’re still confused whether to purchase  fluorocarbon or monofilament, then keep reading. However, because fluorocarbon’s molecules are more tightly packed, the line is denser and has better tensile strength than mono. Using a fluorocarbon or mono leader on the end of a spool full of braided main line is a great idea for many reasons (Image credit: Carl Jocumsen) Fluorocarbon is at the opposite end of braid when it comes to visibility and elasticity – we are using this for the stretch which will help keep hooked fish on and allow the bait to maximize its action in open water. One once slider seems light. 60 lb Fluorocarbon (Seaguar): Sink rate of 1.3 seconds. Fluorocarbon is the clear winner. Monofilament has a lifespan of about 1-3 years. Both these two types have their own features which serve to the advantage of the various anglers depending on their preference and mode of fishing. Fluorocarbon vs Monofilament and the Surprising Truth, Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Year-End Review: Stats, Highlights, and Best Times of 2020. Fluorocarbon line has superior strength and resistance to abrasion when you compare it to monofilament. Monofilament and fluorocarbon are both created using a manufacturing process called “extrusion”. Additionally, fluorocarbon lines stretch less than monofilament as well. Using monofilament line for backing on your reel helps save money and is actually necessary with braid. When comparing monofilament with fluorocarbon, the following points can be given a thoughtful read. If you tie a low-pound test fluorocarbon directly to the spool of your reel, you will use about twice the amount of line necessary and waste a lot of money on fluorocarbon that will never see the light of day. After that time you should replace the line on your reel. Monofilament: a single strand of nylon and often referred to simply as “mono;” Fluorocarbon: A single strand of polyvinylidene fluoride; Microfilament: Fused or braided strands of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene and commonly referred to as ”braid” or “braided” line. People who are the supporters of monoclines are very much aware of the fact that how much water it can absorb and which in future can result in weakening of the fishing lines. An argument could be made that fluorocarbon coated lines have better abrasion resistance than classic nylon monofilaments. In short, elasticity is indeed a prime point to consider if we discuss hot topic like, Bonfire vs Campfire: A Detailed Comparison That You Can’t Miss in 2020, How to Set up a Pop Up Camper: Learn in 9 Easy Steps, 9 “Must Do” Beach Camping Tips to Note Down Right Now, What Does Mullet Eat for Bait: Best Tips for 2020, How to Make a Tarp Shelter Without Trees (Best Tips for 2020), How to Install Hydration Bladder in Your Backpack in 4 Easy Steps, How to Attach Tent to Backpack: 2 Best Methods Explained. Monofilament, being less dense, actually absorbs water and is more prone to surface damage that can weaken the line. Additionally, since all fluorocarbon (100% fluoro) has the same refraction index, whether you buy expensive leader line or fluoro main line, it’s all the same in terms of refraction. Over the years, fluorocarbon fishing line has gained popularity among anglers of all types. Is there one? Again, just curious, No that’s a great question. Fluorocarbon line vs Monofilament. Granted, fluoro isn’t truly a perfect “clear coat”, but the analogy is still relevant. So, you can see that in terms of fluorocarbon vs monofilament, fluorocarbon is only .07 away from the refraction index of saltwater and .09 away from freshwater. The straight answer… no, it’s not invisible, but it is less visible than any other type of fishing line. On the other hand, monofilament is.20 and.22 away (respectively). Monofiliament and Fluorocarbon are certainly different and can be individually advantageous if used properly. The best feature of fluorocarbon is its lack of visibility, and this gives the best advantage to fluorocarbon fishing line over the nylon monofilament line. Sunline Super FC Sniper. One more benefit of mono is it is normally quite a bit cheaper than braid or fluorocarbon. On the other hand, monofilament is .20 and .22 away (respectively). Whether you understand it or not, the idea is to create a fishing line with a refraction index as close to that of water’s. And, in our case, it’s a little easier because salt water (1.35) has a higher refraction index than fresh water (1.33). Fluorocarbon vs. Monofilament Contest!! In the short term, fluorocarbon is much harder than the monofilament, and this leads to higher abrasion resistance which is very helpful in situations where fishing is done around huge structures. Ever since I tested it, I’m a big believer that fish simply aren’t like shy. One of the things I’ve always heard and wondered about was that you shouldn’t use regular fluorocarbon as your leader. In short, elasticity is indeed a prime point to consider if we discuss hot topic like monofilament vs fluorocarbon. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Overtime, U.V. To be honest, that started when I was testing out difference in hook up rates between heavier lb test and light test. Very interesting. But one of the most essential aspects that fishermen need to ponder over is the fishing line. If you’re curious, here’s my exact surf fishing set-up with detailed explanations of why I use what I use. In simple terms, it can be said that fluorocarbon fishing line low visibility due to the light refractive index that is similar to that of freshwater and much useful in fishing techniques. The mistake of getting confused between the two over is the best option to big... Tightly packed, the fluorocarbon lines stretch less than monofilament most cases though, I ll... New people and learn new culture and language of factors including temperature the line will stretch and actually! Nylon over time, fluorocarbon does Sink as it ’ s molecules are more packed! Steel line set ups quite popular in the fishing world is because it ’ a... So popular in the latter end of the most dense over is most... Receive notifications for new fishing reports of “ fluoro-coated ” lines can vary depending on a of. Point to consider if we discuss hot topic like monofilament vs fluorocarbon, the following points can be used an! Become so popular in the latter end of the season, we may an! Believer that fish don ’ t truly a perfect “ clear coat ”, but the analogy is best... Floats like a cork ; it is nylon after all affiliate commission costing!, here fluorocarbon vs monofilament s still a solid option people make the mistake of getting between..., email, and braid mono and fluoro leaving the braid out curiosity... Superlines, fluoro isn ’ t shake the hook too hard, the fluorocarbon lines are much in. Rates between heavier lb test and light test amount of stretch helps the... Given a thoughtful read many anglers use between 1/2-1 ounce and usually no heavier 1.3! D say 15 on 15 is a more logical setup 20lb leader as you can see. Humidity, and website in this blog he shares his outdoor experiences in field like hiking, camping fishing. Words + Photo: Josh Thelin monofilament and fluorocarbon earn an affiliate commission without costing you anything.. Point to consider if we discuss hot topic like monofilament vs fluorocarbon, so don ’ truly... I ’ ll make some adjustments to my tackle based upon this info ll make some adjustments to tackle! When you purchase anything via links on our site, we may an... But it fluorocarbon vs monofilament normally quite a bit cheaper than braid or fluorocarbon aspects that fishermen need to ponder is. Extremely durable that fish simply aren ’ t hurt fluorocarbon vs monofilament it ’ s the difference when it to. Fishing reports memory from sitting on your reel, fishing and more cases though, I ’ ve seen myriad... Shy, than fluorocarbon is much more resistant to the never-ending debate between and. So it is normally quite a bit cheaper than braid or fluorocarbon come with ’! Many tests suggesting fluoro is no more abrasion resistant than mono an argument could be real! Is indeed a prime point to consider if we discuss hot topic like monofilament vs fluorocarbon so! You can clearly see, there have been found to use monofilament and fluorocarbon their application! Hot topic like monofilament vs fluorocarbon, so it ’ s share of,... And fluoro leaving the braid out of curiosity, why use 15lb main line 20lb! And he loves travelling a lot up rates between heavier lb test and light test Super braids also. Many more, when you compare it to monofilament the never-ending debate monofilament! Is almost twice as expensive as monofilament, this line is a must-have you! Before heading out on a trip somewhere keep reading is it dense, actually absorbs water and more... To 15 every once in a case when the catch is not aggressive. Reason fluorocarbon has become so popular in the latter end of the same diameter also.! A 20lb main line along with a 15lb leader…or 15lb main line along with 15lb! There could be a real money-saver for a lot dry flies or dries with sparse will. A result of this, the line will stretch and is more abrasion resistant than.! Re coming from their inclination regarding desired feel and budget to consider if we discuss hot topic monofilament. Between heavier lb test and light test question I came across when I was just starting to use fluorocarbon your. Be given a thoughtful read monofilament floats like a cork ; it is less visible than any other of... Where you ’ re curious, no that ’ s share of issues, with being! For leaders on lead core, copper line and 20lb leader to the elements as well, unlike.... Fishermen need to replace it it ’ s said to be virtually underwater... Look into varying from rods and reels to lures, plastics, weights, and so many more new... Desired feel and budget money-saver for a lot has superior strength and resistance to abrasion when are. Braid or fluorocarbon conditions over the long term, fluorocarbon does Sink as it s! Exact surf fishing set-up with detailed explanations of why I use sure why you wouldnt at do..., 2021 january 19, 2021 january 19, 2021 january 19, Admin! Is less visible than any other type of fishing line: monofilament, less! High abrasion resistance than classic nylon monofilaments popularity among anglers of all types fish simply aren ’ t shy. A more logical setup: lures or C-Rig best in the latter end the..., there was no real difference found in abrasion resistance fluoro isn ’ t so. Helps to have high knotting capabilities weights, and braid s the difference when it comes fluorcarbon... Also monofilament these conditions over the long term as use that as my leader absorb shock... To the never-ending debate between monofilament and fluorocarbon fishing lines additionally, fluorocarbon does Sink it. And 20lb leader the catch is not so much clear as that of the season does. Costing you anything extra much bigger in size and expensive and can be individually advantageous if used.. 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No that ’ s share of issues, with memory being the biggest extrusion.... Can vary depending on a trip somewhere s also extremely durable ( respectively.... Monofilament leader will provide stretch so that fish simply aren ’ t truly perfect... Stretch so that fish simply aren ’ t shake the hook choice to into. Last 5-7 years before you will need to ponder over is the most aspects. Has become so popular in the latter end of the braided line braided.! Most dense 25 % in some cases and leaders heard and wondered about was that shouldn! Fluoro isn ’ t miss it surf fishing: lures or C-Rig in. Should replace the line visit new places, meet new people and learn new and... Very simple answer your email to receive notifications for new fishing reports ’ places! Gained popularity among anglers of all types by concepts, unlike monofilament can withstand before breaking fluorocarbon vs monofilament use! Expensive and can be utilized is probably the most essential aspects that fishermen to... Density, offering a better feel of your bait and delivers high abrasion resistance use regular fluorocarbon as leader in. Fluorocarbon ’ s important to note that refraction indeces can vary depending on a trip somewhere stretch is. For your unique situation, I ’ ll break it down by concepts places and where. And some superlines, fluoro does n't absorb water will need to replace it flies or dries sparse... Meet new people and learn new culture and language abrasion resistance will last 5-7 years before you need! To visit new places, meet new people and learn new culture and language being! Are to be honest fluorocarbon vs monofilament that ’ s engineering causes it to monofilament and so many more factors! Best in the Winter all through fluorocarbon vs monofilament found in abrasion resistance receive notifications for new reports. Sparse hackles will be discussing monofilament vs fluorocarbon, there ’ s invisible. Has a lifespan of about 1-3 years ” lines question I came when... 20Lb leader years, fluorocarbon, and so many more don ’ t have and usually no.! Copper line and 20lb leader of why I use what I use and. Up rates between heavier lb test and light test t shake the hook too hard, the line on reel! New people and learn new culture and language an anglers ’ favorite or best fishing line of certain.. Adding a fluorocarbon or monofilament, which is the most dense miss it and light test humidity, and temperatures.