Low Visibility
Fluorocarbon fishing line is extremely difficult to detect when submerged in the water. This comes from it possessing a light refractive index that is almost the same as water. This index measures how much light will bend when it goes through a certain substance. Some fluorocarbon lines have a light refractive index of 1.42, which is close to that of water's index of 1.33, according to the Classic Bass website. Average monofilament fishing line has a measurement of 1.52 and fish have the ability to see it underwater. Fluorocarbon becomes almost invisible in a lake, stream, river or in the ocean. Wary fish subjected to extreme fishing pressure will tend to let down their guard when a properly presented lure or bait attached to fluorocarbon line comes their way. Employ fluorocarbon line as a leader, tying it to your regular line, if you are fishing in conditions that demand stealth.
Less Stretch
Another aspect of fluorocarbon line that gives it an advantage over regular monofilament is that the line does not stretch as easily. While braided super lines have less stretch than fluorocarbon does, the combination of being almost invisible and not stretching give the fluorocarbon line an advantage. Minimal line stretch becomes important when you attempt to set the hook on a biting fish. The line offers greater sensitivity to light strikes as you retrieve your lures. The lack of stretching translates into a split-second quicker and surer hook-set, which means fewer fish will escape.
Other Advantages
Fluorocarbon line has a higher density than monofilament, making it sink in the water at a more rapid rate. This becomes an advantage when fishing your lures in deeper bodies of water, as the lure will descend quicker when attached to fluorocarbon line and stay down deep as you reel it in. Fluorocarbon's design makes it much more resistant to abrasion than monofilament line and the line will not absorb water, making it hold up better over time. Fluorocarbon resists the ultraviolet rays of the sun. This facet of fluorocarbon line allows you to use it for longer periods and not worry about it breaking down. You can store fluorocarbon line without concern that it will weaken.
Article Written By John Lindell
John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.
