Tiger Line Q&A

Tiger Line Q&A

Fact and fiction about fluorocarbon fishing line

1 - Fluorocarbon lines are stiff and don’t cast well
Not true.  The stiffness of a fluorocarbon line depends on the way it is manufactured.  By using different manufacturing techniques, the qualities of a fluorocarbon line can be altered.  Tiger line is not as stiff as some fluorocarbon lines and it casts well.  See Terry Edmonds recommendation on Tiger line.  Terry is a casting expert and he advises Tiger line as the best fishing line, to all the anglers he takes for casting lessons - seeTerry Edmonds 

2 - Isn’t knot strength a problem with fluorocarbon?
No, not true.  Not with Tiger line.  It is true that fluorocarbon lines used to have a poor reputation for knot strength.  However, the advanced resin technology used in the manufacture of Tiger line ensures very good knot strength.  For advice on which knots to use, see Knots for Tiger line 

3 - Fluorocarbon lines are more resistant to the sun’s UV rays than nylon line.
True: 100% fluorocarbon lines like Tiger line are almost totally impervious to UV rays. This means that fluorocarbon lines have a much longer life span than nylon monofilaments. Although you should check your line regularly and re-spool as necessary, with Tiger line you can re-spool less.   Yes, fluorocarbon costs more to start with but it will last considerably longer and you benefit from all the advantages of a 100% fluorocarbon line.

4 - Are 100% fluorocarbon lines like Tiger line completely invisible under water?
No. As a 100% fluorocarbon line, Tiger line is as close as any form of line or leader can get to the refractive index of water, thus making it virtually invisible, but it isn’t completely invisible. Some brands do state that, but it isn’t true.  Tiger line is very difficult to see under water and once it is lying on, or near the bottom it becomes extremely difficult to see.  In fact, it virtually disappears on most types of bottom.  For ultimate discretion don’t use lead core or tubing (whatever colour it is!), fish straight through with Tiger line.  If you need to use an abrasion leader, or a stronger leader to take the power of a long cast, then there is no contest, go for a fluorocarbon leader like our Armure leader.  The heavy fluorocarbon sinks like a stone and once on the bottom, it will virtually disappear, whatever type of bottom it is lying on.

5 - Fluorocarbon has very little stretch or none at all.
True. Yes, fluorocarbon lines do stretch, but nothing like as much as mono.  Tiger line is the perfect compromise between the excessive stretch of some nylon lines and the zero stretch of braid.  The reduced stretch of Tiger line ensures good bite detection and a very direct contact with the fish.  You have more control over a fighting fish which makes it easier to apply pressure to prevent a fish reaching a dangerous snag for example.  At the same time, the slight ‘give’ in the line is a real advantage when the fish is fighting under the rod top, resulting in less hook pulls and more fish in the net.

6 - Fluorocarbon is stiff in cold water.
Not true. In fact, fluorocarbon lines like Tiger line are perfect in cold water, as they absorb very little water, remaining soft and supple.

7 - Do I need to store my fluorocarbon leader or line in a dark place?
No. Fluorocarbon is not affected by fluorescent lighting or other forms of UV rays.

8 - What is Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon is made from Hydrogen, Carbon, and Fluoride. This combination of elements creates the molecule known as PVDF, or Poly-Vinyl-i-Dene-Fluoride.

9 - Is it true that nylon monofilament can absorb water and become 30% weaker over time?
Yes, this is true. Tiger line absorbs very little water and has a long life span.

10 - Do I have to wash Tiger line or treat it with anything before I spool it onto my reel?
No treatments are necessary. Tiger line is ready to use straight from the spool.

11 - Do I need to clean my line after using it?
It is a good idea to wind your line back through a damp cloth on a regular basis.  This will remove any silt or dirt that may have built up on the line and help keep it as good as new. 

12 - Any other advice about Tiger line?
Yes.  To remove any kinks in the line and keep it nice and straight, I occasionally tie the line to a tree, walk out and then apply a constant, firm pressure for a few seconds.   Do this on a regular basis, as well as cleaning on a regular basis by winding through a damp cloth, and your line will stay as good as new. 

13 - How should I spool my Tiger line onto my reels?
Click on the link to see details: Spooling advice.