Fluorocarbon line is made of fluoropolymer polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and is composed of a single strand, similarly to monofilament.
The difference with mono (made of nylon) is that fluorocarbon line uses a denser material and does not absorb any water.
Therefore, it does not change in size, nor loses strength when wet. Fluorocarbon lines are very abrasion resistant and, unsurprisingly, larger diameters offer more strength.
Here you can find fluoro line diameter chart; however, keep in mind that the values might change a bit from brand to brand.
| Weight (in lb.) | Diameter |
| 15 lbs. | 0.37 mm |
| 20 lbs. | 0.40 mm |
| 30 lbs. | 0.52 mm |
| 40 lbs. | 0.62 mm |
| 50 lbs. | 0.70 mm |
| 60 lbs. | 0.74 mm |
| 80 lbs. | 0.91 mm |
| 90 lbs. | 1.05 mm |
| 130 lbs. | 1.28 mm |
| 150 lbs. | 1.38 mm |
| 180 lbs. | 1.48 mm |
| 200 lbs. | 1.57 mm |
| 220 lbs. | 1.66 mm |
| 280 lbs. | 1.81 mm |
| 300 lbs. | 2.03 mm |
| 400 lbs. | 2.24 mm |
What’s the best fluorocarbon line?
Fluorocarbon quality can definitely vary from brand to brand. Generally speaking, there are some characteristics and features that make a line better than another.
First, a good fluoro line should be able to stay clear even after prolonged use. Poorly manufactured fluoro will soon turn milky white or opaque, and when this happens, it’s time to change your line. Considered how expensive fluorocarbon can be, this is something you probably want to avoid.
Abrasion resistance and strength are also important characteristics and some brands perform better than others. In addition to that, stay away from lines that do not provide enough sensitivity, which is a key feature of fluorocarbon line. Finally, a good quality fishing line should make casting a smooth operation, despite braid performs better in this case.
Is there a difference between fluorocarbon line and leader?
Fluorocarbon line and leader should never be confused. The leader is the final part of your fishing line: fluoro is often tied to braid or monofilament’s ending through a knot, to take advantage of its invisibility and make the line less noticeable to shy fish.
A fluoro leader is also a good option if you want your bait to sink to the bottom. When buying fluoro, remember that the fluoro which is especially manufactured for leader purpose is not the same that the one that is produced to be your fishing line: fluoro leader is harder and tougher, as well as being less pliable. On the other hand, fluorocarbon line is much softer and can be cut easily.
What is fluorocarbon line best for?
Fluorocarbon is the best choice for jig and worm fishermen, due to its high sensitivity. It’s great if you’re looking for an invisible line, as it allows a greater amount of light to pass through. Braid and monofilament are not so efficient: braid is often colored, and nylon tends to refract light and alert fish of the angler’s presence.
What is the smallest diameter fishing line?
Monofilament is the line with the smallest diameter and cheapest price tag. It offers high abrasion resistance and it’s soft and flexible. When it comes to fluorocarbon line, Sun Line is one of the best brands providing the smallest diameter line for pound test. Sun Line Super FC Sniper is especially smooth among all fluorocarbon lines and the one offering the least memory.