At a Glance: Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon lines were initially used as a saltwater leader or tippet material for its abrasion resistance and near invisibility in water and are still ideal as a leader for most applications. The relatively high cost of this line is typically prohibitive of it being popular as a mainline, but there are increasingly numerous uses for fluoro lines for both professional and amateur anglers alike. Fluorocarbon fishing line is comprised of a combination of organic and synthetic compounds, containing tightly packed molecules making it stronger and heavier than monofilament line. The high density of the line causes it to sink relatively well without the added help of a weight, and also accounts for its durability. This makes it ideal for bottom fishing as less line is needed to be deployed to reach depth and it can withstand contact with rocks and structure. Fluorocarbon line has nearly the same light refractive index as water, so it does not distort light passing through it. This keeps the line very clear and almost completely invisible in water. While many people believe fluorocarbon has little to no stretch, this is not necessarily true. Fluoro line actually stretches more than monofilament line, but it takes more force to get it to stretch. This low-end strength allows for solid hooksets and makes it a perfect pairing as leader material for braided and super lines. Fluorocarbon lines also do not absorb water like superlines and monofilament and are not affected by UV rays. FishUSA offers leader spools, filler spools, and bulk spools from the biggest names in the industry.
Popular brands of fluorocarbon line available at FishUSA include Seaguar, P-Line, Yo-Zuri, Berkley, Maxima, and more.