Fluorocarbon is a top choice for those seeking stealth and strength, but knowing when and why you should use this line is crucial for a successful day on the water:  

• Deep Water: If deepwater fishing is on your horizon, fluorocarbon’s sinking capability is great for getting your lure down faster and staying in the strike zone longer. It is also suitable for plenty of different deepwater techniques (jigs, drop-shots, deep-diving crankbaits, etc.).  

• Clear Water Conditions: When it’s crystal clear out on the water, it’s time to break out the fluorocarbon line. This line is especially useful when targeting finicky species like trout or bass who can be a bit line shy. 

• Structural Fishing: If heavy coverage, rocks, docks, or vegetation str in the picture, fluorocarbon’s abrasion resistant properties will certainly come in handy to prevent breakoffs or losing those frustrating fish that like to swim straight for the pilings once they’re hooked.   

• Harsh Weather: Maintain more control of your line with rain and wind with a fluorocarbon as it won’t stretch nearly as much as monofilament. 

While the applications and variations of Berkley fluorocarbon line expand beyond what is listed in the chart below, this will give you an overview of the high-level types of line and most general guidelines for each to point you in the right initial direction:

• Trilene® 100% Fluorocarbon: Superior abrasion resistance

• Vanish®: 100% Fluorocarbon with easier casting ability

While not as malleable as monofilament, there are still several knots that work very well for fluorocarbon fishing line:  

• Uni/ Ginner Knot: A multi-purpose fishing knot that makes a slidable stopper and undergoes a transformation as it is tightened. 

• Double Uni Knot: An ideal knot for attaching two lines of similar diameters. 

• Palomar Knot: A simple knot that’s widely known as one of the strongest and most reliable for attaching a line to a hook. 

• Snell Knot: A knot considered the strongest fishing knot for all fishing line types.  

• Blood Knot: A good choice for splicing two lines of similar diameter. 

• Tornado HH Knot: The knot strength of a Tornado is nearly 100% straight strength.  

• Improved Clinch Knot: A high strength knot that is easy to tie and is one of the most widely used by anglers. 

• Figure Eight Knot: This is a type of stopper knot that is strong and used to prevent slipping.  

• San Diego Jam Knot: A great knot for attaching a hook, swivel, or lure to a line.  

Fluorocarbon has several advantages and specific properties that have resulted in its popularity among modern anglers:

• Visibility: One of the standout features of fluorocarbon fishing line is that it is nearly invisible when submerged, making it the most adaptable to the fishing environment and less likely to spook fish away before you’ve had a chance to hook them.  

• Density: Fluorocarbon is one of the only lines that sinks naturally due to its density, making it ideal for fishing with deep-diving lures or bottom fishing.  

• Sensitivity: Fluorocarbon’s stiff line makeup is important, especially in deepwater fishing situations, in that it provides more of a direct connection between the angler and the line. This means you will be able to feel even the smallest hits on your line, so you don’t miss a nibble.  

• Abrasion Resistance: Fluorocarbon’s PVDF composition creates a more abrasion resistant line that is less likely to break and more suitable for fishing in areas with sharp rocks, docks and reefs, or general heavy cover.  

• Water Absorption: With no water absorption, fluorocarbon’s line remains strong and sensitive for much longer than other lines no matter what waters you’re fishing. 

While there are many benefits to using fluorocarbon line, it is important to recognize the minor drawbacks to understand if this is truly the line for you:

• Affordability: Out of the fishing lines out there, fluorocarbon is typically the most expensive so for anglers who find themselves constantly needing to replace their lines, this can add up quickly.  

• Stiffness: While stiffness is in many ways a positive attribute creating sensitivity, it does make it slightly less manageable and can be difficult for knot tying as well as create more line memory over time.  

• Stretch: Due to the stiff nature of fluorocarbon, the line is less forgiving when targeting aggressive species that tend to strike the line hard. Without the shock absorption provided by the likes of monofilament, strong strikes may result in breakage.  

All said, fluorocarbon fishing line is sensitive, strong, and has more abrasion resistance making it great for fishing around structures and deepwater fishing but could be a little more difficult to handle for beginners. to a wide breadth of fishing needs. Not sure our fluorocarbon line is right for your next fishing adventure? Learn more about our other line type options to see if there is a better fit: 

• Monofilament Line 
• Braid Line
• Full Line Guide