Put and Take Sverige
Fluorocarbon and leader
Fluorocarbon bends light almost like water, so fish struggle to see it. That makes it first-class leader material in put and take: a thinner, less visible bit next to the bait, which matters in clear water and on fish that have been in a while and grown shy.
Why a fluorocarbon leader
Three reasons. It is less visible, so you get a better chance on shy fish. It is abrasion-resistant and takes stone, bottom and teeth next to the bait. And it spares the main line, because wear lands on the leader, which is cheap to replace. You tie it between main line and bait, often via a small swivel or a line-to-line knot. About 50 to 100 cm is a good start — longer and finer in clear water on shy fish, shorter and heavier in coloured water. Never thicker than you need: a fat leader shows more and can put careful fish off.
On spin you tie a short fluorocarbon leader, preferably via a swivel that also stops twist. On bait it protects against wear around weight and hook. In fly fishing the same idea is the tippet. Feel the leader after every fish and change when it feels rough. Always wet the knots before you tighten. Store the material dark. More: lines and leaders, lures for rainbow trout.
FAQ
Why use fluorocarbon as a leader?
Fluorocarbon bends light roughly like water and is therefore harder for the fish to see. That makes it valuable next to the bait, especially in clear water and on shy fish.
How long should the leader be?
Often 50–100 cm is enough. Longer and finer in clear water and on shy fish, shorter and heavier where it is coloured or the fish is less shy.
Can I use fluorocarbon as main line?
You can, but it is usually unnecessarily expensive and stiffer to cast. Most people run mono or braid as main line and save fluorocarbon for the leader.
Which diameter on the leader?
Match the size of the fish — strong enough not to break in the fight, but not heavier than needed. For ordinary put-and-take rainbow a relatively fine leader is enough, and it also shows less.
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