Back in 2011 I did a post
concerning the advantages of using the fluorocarbon leader. At that time I was
using a traditional mono leader, which was giving me problems with line twist
at times; also the mono could be seen in really clear water. The fluorocarbon
solved both those issues for me. My only complaint with the fluorocarbon leader
was the price ranging from 13.00 to 25.00.
I did save some when I starting
using the tippet ring, which enables me to use the same leader for a year. The
only part of the leader that is replaced is the tippet end of the leader. I
simply tie in 2 ½ ft. of tippet into the ring and I am good to go. I use a lot
of tippet because every time I tied on a new fly I lose tippet. I use a 9 ft. leader
and like to keep the leader as close to 9 ft. as possible. After I have lost nine to ten inches I am ready for another tippet.
I’ve recently discovered
another way to save on the tippet spools I am always buying to supply my seven
fly reels. I have started using the Berkley Vanish fluorocarbon fishing line. One 250 yard spool
will last for years and at eight bucks a spool that is a bargain. I have been
using the line for a couple of months and really impressed with its
performance. I can’t see the line in the waters at the tailrace, which is what got
my attention. Another thing that impressed me was the limp low memory
characteristic the line possesses. I use
5X, 3X and 1X tippets which are 4, 6 and 8 lb. test line; these 3 spools will
last me much longer than a few tippet spools, with line left over for my spinning reels;
what a saving.
