Sensitivity
Elasticity contributes to line sensitivity, which refers to how well you can feel the bottom of the water or the bite of a fish by holding your fishing gear. The more sensitive your rod and line, the more you’ll be able to sense what’s going on with your fishing rig while it’s submerged. Less sensitivity on your gear means you may be less likely to sense whether a fish has taken a bite or whether your rig has reached the bottom. The result is a less efficient fishing session. Because monofilament is the more elastic material, it has lower sensitivity. Fluorocarbon, on the other hand, has high sensitivity thanks to its density and stiffness, and can alert you of bites and when your lure has reached the bottom.
Environmental Impact
Both monofilament and fluorocarbon lines take a very long time to break down. Since monofilament doesn’t last as long as fluorocarbon, and its littering the aquatic system due to unintentional snagging and improper disposal has led to dire repercussions for both animals and humans. it’s more likely to litter and do more damage to the environment. Monofilament lines are difficult to spot when submerged in water, and they can trap birds, fish, and even divers and swimmers. What’s more, they may be ingested by birds and fish, leading to microplastic poisoning. The environmental issues surrounding fishing lines have prompted many fishing areas across the country to encourage proper disposal, primarily by stationing collection bins for old and damaged fishing lines at piers, tackle shops, and beaches.
Both monofilament and fluorocarbon lines have compelling arguments for themselves. Monofilament is an old reliable for good reason, being affordable, easy to manage, and applicable to most fishing situations. Its weaknesses, however, lie in its higher visibility, low sensitivity and durability, the latter of which makes it the less sustainable option. Fluorocarbon possesses many traits that monofilament seems to lack – it is durable and more sustainable, has a higher density and sensitivity, and is less visible underwater. The tradeoffs are that it is difficult to cast, more expensive, and its use is best when limited to deepwater fishing. Ultimately, your choice of fishing line depends on water conditions, budget, and the type of fishing you prefer to do.
