Quote:
Originally Posted by Walleyedude
This is my experience too. It does make a difference. The difference is huge in really finesse situations, and less pronounced in more aggressive presentations. Having said that, I can honestly say I've even seen an improvement in catch rates by using a 10-15 ft fluorocarbon leader when trolling crankbaits rather than braid right to the crank. It's not a big change, but it's there, especially when the bite is tough.
The other major benefit in my opinion to having a fluorocarbon leader is that re-tying your jig is a piece of cake. Simple palomar knot and bite off the tag end. If you're using straight braid, you're gonna need scissors or a knife and it's a little trickier to deal with. Grabbing your line is a lot more user friendly with fluoro too compared to braid.
My go to setup is Power Pro Super Slick main line with a 3-6 ft Suffix 100% fluorocarbon leader, joined with a blood knot. I generally go 8lb on both, but I'll drop down to a 6lb leader if it's really touchy.
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I used to do exactly the same as you but after seeing the line to flouro data on knots I changed to an inline swivel to make the connection. Most braid to flouro knots weaken the line by about 13-50 percent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R_2xautA1U
While line to swivel knots don't weaken the line nearly as much.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91aqhBQFLPk
Given an 8lb line weakening it by 25% gives you a 6 lb line which is a bit light with no advantages gained.
I also find that with the swivel it is faster and easier to change the flour leader and helps with line twist.
I use very small high grade swivels and they test out around 40lbs. And again they are tiny.