Many of us use leaders in our fishing rigs, which would mean either steel, nylon monofilament (mono) or fluorocarbon (FC). There are,then, definately occasions where we hesitate to choose one kind over the other. So how do we decide?
Steel leader is mainly used only when targeting fish with sharp teeth, or in areas that are full of fish like that. For the rest of the time, most of us would choose between mono and FC. The trend nowadays seem to be moving more and more towards FC, why should this be the case when FC is much more expensive compared to mono? Let us then take a look at the differences in their features.
• Refraction index (RI)
Water has a RI of approximately 1.3, FC 1.4 and mono 1.5. This means that fish will have a harder time telling FC from water. This lower visibility wil entice more fish, especially the ones with sharper eyes and those are easily spooked, to take your bait.
• Diameter
FC is made of material with higher tensile strength than that of mono. Consequently, even at the same poundage, FC will have a smaller diameter than mono. This translates to less visibility and better lure action.
• Porosity
FCis non-porous, and maintains same strength in or out of the water. On the other hand, mono absorbs water and its strength could be reduced up to 15%. You would then be sure that the FC line can withstand the amount of stress put on it as stated on the packaging, if not more.
• Surface finish
FC has a smooth, hard finish, which makes it more resistant to abrasion when fighting fish with sharp teeth or at areas with rough surfaces. Eg reefs. Chances of your line bursting in the middle of a fight would be lower.
• Elasticity
FC is less elastic than mono. This means that you would be more sensitive to nibbles and have a easier job getting a solid hook set.
The main disadvantage of FC however, is its price. Many hesitate to use FC because its price is many times more than that of mono. FC is a clear winner when fishing in clear waters, but when it comes to murky or cloudy areas some may still prefer FC for its strength and durability. So in the end, it all boils down to how much you are willing to spend to improve your chances of landing fish.
Of course, if you choose FC for its many plus points, you need to make sure that its performance is top notch. This would actually mean changing the line whenever it turns milky or when it has suffered substantial abrasion. Why stint when you had already decided to spend more for good results?
