Monofilament Line & Leader Tips

What should I use mono line for when fishing?

Mono fishing line is made with a single strand of material, as the name implies. In most situations, this material is nylon, which has approximately 25% greater stretch than its fluorocarbon equivalent. Mono is also available in a variety of colours, ranging from low-visibility tones like green, blue and clear to brighter hues for line-watching presentations. The shock strength of mono line is another significant advantage, cushioning the force and energy of large gamefish thrashing around and making it difficult to land the catch. Mono line is also more flexible than stronger lines and sinks slowly, making it ideal for top water lures.

Can mono be used as a leader?

Depending on its intended function, mono is typically employed as both a mainline and a leader fishing line in Australia. There has long been controversy over whether fluorocarbon or monofilament produces a better leader line, but it really boils down to water clarity and target species. However, because of its supple texture and excellent buoyancy, mono is ideal for anglers who want to present natural baits or work surface lures.

What's the difference between mono and fluorocarbon fishing lines in Australia?

Fluorocarbon and monofilament are both excellent leader line materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages for anglers in certain situations, yet many people are confused about the differences between the two. They have the same appearance, are somewhat transparent, have the same fluid texture, and even have a slight gloss to the line. This may make it difficult for beginner anglers to spot the minor differences. To begin, fluoro is typically thought to be less visible in the water, but mono comes in a variety of colours, allowing you to switch out your line if you're fishing in murky rather than clear water. Furthermore, monofilament is more elastic than fluoro and while both give stretch, mono can absorb shock and bounce back, whereas fluoro is more prone to become stretched and weaker. Fluorocarbon has the additional virtue of being more UV and abrasion resistant than mono; however this comes at a higher cost.

Is mono line better than braided fishing line?

When to use braid versus mono as a main fishing line is primarily instinctive and something you learn as you acquire more fishing experience, although there does appear to be some agreement on when mono outperforms braid and vice versa. Monofilament is the preferred mainline material for trolling, live bait fishing and kite fishing. When it comes to fishing structure, bottom fishing, or casting lures, braid is a popular choice of fishing line in Australia.