Fluorocarbon line shoot-out and question about mono abrasion resistance

[sunburned]

Hi Guys,

Came across this writeup on fluorocarbon lab tests conducted by the Tackle Tour team. While I found the test results informative as anecdotal info, I was surprised at one of the results - abrasion resistance dropped significantly (56%) for the base monofilament sample (12lb Berkley Trilene XL) when the line was wet, compared to the dry test.

What gives? I'd appreciate it if any of you guys can share about the drop in abrasion resistance for monofilament when soaked in water.

Cheers,
Sunburned

[Makaira]

Hi Sunburned,

It should be noted that the Tackle Tour exercise tested FC that is used as mainline rather than FC leader that is more commonly used here.

It will be more interesting if they test FC leader. In general, I think leader material is different from mainline material; for mono as well as for FC. Opinions differ of course.

Best regards,
Makaira

[sunburned]

Hi Mak,

Yes, I noted that it was for main lines instead of leader materials. It just puzzles me that the mono mainline was so much less abrasion resistant in the water than when dry.

You're right - it would be MUCH more interesting if they did a test for FC leader materials, and I suppose there should be some difference between FC leader and mainline materials.

BTW - what do you use for your topshot and how many metres of it?

Warm Regards,
Sunburned

[Makaira]

Hi SB,

Yes, I am quite surprised about the lower abrasion resistance too. Perhaps the line they used in the test is very absorbant thereby weakening it significantly.

Generally, I do not use topshots for my smaller reels. I prefer to call them wind-on leaders. I use a maximum length of about 20ft or so for such applications. My wind-ons are regular mono, mainly YGK using loop-to-loop connections. I am a real moron when it comes to knots, especially with all those new fangled FG or mid-knot or what have you so I don't bother with them. For my spinning reels where casting is involved, the trusty uni-to-uni has yet to fail me & I don't go blind tying it; nor get seasick tying it on a rocking boat. I am not one of those who fish 20kg drags, so the uni-to-uni has served me well up to 25lbs or so of drag.

For topshots on my game reels, I back them up with either 80lbs or 130lbs Jerry Brown hollow and top up the rest of the capacity with my choice of mono; depending on the destination.

Best regards,
Makaira

[sunburned]

Hi Makaira,

Thanks for the informative feedback on water absorbtion and its impact on mono. I'm quite glad I quit using it a long while ago...

You're too humble - I don't think its easy making wind-on loops. Our mutual friend tried educating me on this, but he lost me 2 minutes into the discussion, ha ha

Tight lines & Best Regards,
Sunburned