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Fishing Term: Fluorocarbon

Fishing Dictionary->Fluorocarbon

Definition

Fluorocarbon refers to a type of synthetic material used in various applications, including fishing lines, leader materials, and as a component in some types of fishing lures. In the context of fishing, fluorocarbon is commonly used as a fishing line or leader material due to its specific characteristics.

Key features of fluorocarbon fishing lines include:

  • Invisibility: Fluorocarbon has a refractive index close to that of water, making it nearly invisible underwater. This low visibility is advantageous in situations where fish may be wary of visible fishing lines.
  • Density: Fluorocarbon is denser than water, allowing it to sink, which can be beneficial for certain fishing techniques, such as presenting lures or baits beneath the water's surface.
  • Abrasion Resistance: Fluorocarbon lines are known for their resistance to abrasion. This property is particularly useful when fishing in areas with rocks, structure, or other abrasive surfaces.
  • Low Stretch: Fluorocarbon has less stretch compared to monofilament lines. This characteristic provides better sensitivity, enabling anglers to detect subtle bites and changes in the underwater environment.
  • UV Resistance: Fluorocarbon is resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light, which helps prevent degradation when exposed to sunlight. This is advantageous for maintaining the strength and durability of the line over time.
  • Chemical Resistance: Fluorocarbon is resistant to various chemicals and does not absorb water, contributing to its durability and longevity.
  • Sink Rate: Fluorocarbon lines typically have a faster sink rate than monofilament lines, which can be advantageous for certain fishing applications, such as deepwater fishing.

One notable characteristic of fluorocarbon is its higher stiffness compared to monofilament, which can affect its handling characteristics, knot tying, and casting performance. Anglers often use specialized knots when working with fluorocarbon to optimize knot strength.

It's important to note that while fluorocarbon lines share some characteristics with monofilament lines, they are distinct types of fishing lines. Additionally, fluorocarbon is different from fluorocarbon-coated lines, where a core material is coated with a fluorocarbon layer.

Fluorocarbon fishing lines are popular among anglers, particularly for applications where low visibility, abrasion resistance, and sensitivity are crucial factors.

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