We sometimes use affiliate links in our content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This won't cost you anything but it helps to offset the costs of paying our writing team (Me) Thanks for your support!
What’s The Difference Between Braided and Fluorocarbon Lines? – Let’s Find Out!
Fishing is one of the most enjoyable hobbies all around the world. But you need to make sure you’re using the right line for the job. Understanding the difference between braided vs fluorocarbon fishing line is essential. Whether you are fishing for bass or catfish, salmon or sunfish, the right line is paramount.
When the braided line was introduced, it was touted as having a higher strength in comparison to other types of fishing lines. Typically, this type of line is made from twisted strands of fiberglass or nylon and has a breaking strength of 50 lbs.
Similarly, fluorocarbon is usually made from polyester and comes in a variety of strengths (10-15 lbs). The question is which one should you choose based on the fishing situation?
Thus, if you’re a fisherman and you want to learn the difference between braided line and fluorocarbon, then you’ve come to the right place. After reading this detailed guide, you’ll be able to find the best fishing line for your needs and learn why you might want to use one over the other.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Braided Fishing Line
Braided fishing line is made of natural materials like nylon, cotton, and silk that are wound together. This makes the braid much stronger. There is no stretch or memory in the braided line. Due to the lack of stretch, large swimbaits and deep-diving crankbaits can be trolled and hooked very solidly.
Besides having greater tensile strength, the braid is also less prone to twisting and offers more casting distance at lighter-pound tests.
Pros of Braid line
1. High tensile strength
The high tensile strength of braided lines is one of their most important characteristics. The braid is created using many individual monofilament strands. These strands are tightly wound together to make the braided fishing line more durable and strong.
2. UV and water resistance
Another important attribute of braided fishing lines is their resistance to UV light and water. UV resistance means that the braided line resists fading due to exposure to sunlight.
Being water resistant means that braided fishing line doesn’t absorb water easily, which means that they won’t become saturated or swell and can be easily in used saltwater conditions.
3. Snag resistance
A braided line can prevent snagging on rocks and debris during the casting process. Unlike other fishing lines, braided fishing lines cannot be bent out of shape. This makes it the perfect fishing line for big game fishermen.
4. Thinner diameter
The thinner diameter is another very important aspect that distinguishes braided lines from conventional fishing lines. It has a very thin diameter that makes it possible to fit more lines on your reel or to use a higher test line without it being unmanageably thick.
5. Less stretch
Braided lines don’t stretch out, which makes it easy for a fisherman to cast his line and retrieve it with one hand.
Cons Of Braid line
1. Abrasion
In braided lines, abrasion resistance is the Achilles heel. The integrity of a braid can be greatly compromised when it scrapes up against rocks or other hard objects.
2. Visibility
The color of the braided fishing line can be dyed to any color, but it will never be clear. Fish can see better this way. However, In very clear water, it isn’t ideal.
When To Use Braided fishing line
Fishing in shallow water is easier with a braid because it sinks. Many anglers use it to lure fish, such as jig head swimbaits and diving crankbaits. The method is also useful for fishing bass in dense vegetation.
In addition, the braided line is also great when fishing in murky water, and fish won’t see the line. That’s why more experienced anglers prefer braids over conventional lines.
When Not to Use Braided Fishing Lines
It’s important to know when not to use braided lines. For instance, if the water is very clear, it is best to use a conventional fishing line. This is because the braided line is made of dye colors and won’t much clear.
So if you use a braided line in clear water it probably does not work much better. Moreover, braided fishing lines shouldn’t be used in rocky habitats.
My Top 5 Pick For The Best Braided Line
RIKIMARU Braided Fishing Line – Abrasion Resistant
Polyethylene
Multicolor
1.36 pound
KastKing SuperPower Braided Fishing Line – Incredible Superline
Double-knit fabrics
Low-vis grey
0.14 Pounds
Reaction Tackle Braided Fishing Line – Pro Grade Power Performance for Saltwater or Freshwater
Polyethylene
Dark blue
0.1 pounds
RIKIMARU Braided Fishing Line – Low Memory Extra Thin Diameter
Polyethylene
Dark grey
0.1 pounds
Power Pro Spectra Fiber Braided Fishing Line
Polyethylene
Moss green
0.17 pounds
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
When fishing with heavy tackle and large fish, the fluorocarbon line is the perfect choice for anglers. Fluorocarbon can withstand high forces and is the best choice for saltwater anglers.
It is made from polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), a synthetic material that is stronger and more durable than nylon. Consequently, it sinks like braided fishing lines but is more resistant to damage than braided fishing lines. This makes it a popular leader-tying thread.
Fluorocarbons are virtually invisible due to their almost identical refractive indices to water.
Pros Of Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
1. Visibility
A major benefit of a fluorocarbon fishing line is its visibility. Due to its perfect blend with water, fluorocarbon is virtually invisible to fish.
2. Moderate stretch
There is just enough stretch in fluorocarbon to cushion a hard hook set. Moreover, it’s not as stretchy as braided. As a result, the sensitivity is also intermediate.
3. Tensile strength
A material’s tensile strength is its ability to withstand stress. The greater the tensile strength, the less likely it is to break. This is why Fluorocarbon fishing line has a tensile strength of 30 pounds and does not easily snap.
4. Doesn’t deteriorate
As a result of its resistance to water, UV rays, chemicals, and even salt, fluorocarbon is a good option for saltwater fishing.
5. Weight
Weight is another important factor in choosing a fishing line. Fluorocarbon is the lightest fishing line. Its weight is 1/3 less than monofilament. Hence, it’s very easy to cast it.
Cons Of Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
1. Stiffness
Due to fluorocarbon’s stiffness, it can be a bit cumbersome to use. This is why some anglers use the line only as a leader and not as the main line.
2. Knot tying
Fluorocarbon is slightly harder to knot than braided fishing lines. When tying a knot, make sure your line is wet.
When to Use Fluorocarbon Line
In terms of strength and stretch, fluorocarbon falls between monofilament and braid, making it the most versatile fishing line. This makes it ideal for crankbaits, jerk baits, swimbaits, and jigs that require maximum action. For clear water, this line makes it virtually impossible for fish to see.
When Not to Use Fluorocarbon Lines
It is rare for fluorocarbon lines to be unsuitable. Since it sinks, it’s not recommended for topwater lures, but it’s perfect for deep water
My Top 5 Pick For The Best Fluorocarbon Line
Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
Blend
Clear – Vanish
8 pounds
Seaguar Blue Label Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
Polyvinylidene Fluoride
Clear
2 pounds
KastKing Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
Polyvinylidene Fluoride
Clear
4 pounds
RIKIMARU Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
Polyvinylidene Fluoride
Clear
8 pounds
Berkley Trilene Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
Polyvinylidene Fluoride
Clear
15 pounds
Check Price Here
That’s A Wrap
So, now you are clear about the differences between fluorocarbon and braided fishing lines. The braided line is best for big-game fishing. It provides superior strength, and durability, and is less susceptible to snags.
On the other hand, fluorocarbon is a great choice for saltwater anglers. It’s a tough material that is resistant to damage, chemicals, salt, and UV rays.
As a whole, both braided and fluorocarbon come with their pros & cons. Now it depends upon you whether you go for a braided line or a fluorocarbon line. So, make your decision wisely according to your needs and preferences.
I hope you have enjoyed my article, and have found it helpful. I would love to know what you think, so if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them in the section below. As Always
Tight Lines
Tony, Creator of Get Reel Fishin