Used & Abused: X-Line Fluorocarbon Main Line - 29/01/2010

I have never been a massive fan of fluorocarbon main line, but since testing the X-Line my opinion is softening. If you fish with semi-slack lines it sinks like a brick straight from the rod tip, keeping your line well out of the path of wary carp. As well as this, fluorocarbon is virtually invisible once submerged. I think it’s essential to keep everything pinned down and, wherever possible, I use a fluorocarbon or a leadcore leader. The X-Line sinks so well that there is no need for a leader and I tend to use the X-Line straight through, with just some tubing for fish-flank protection.

With all of these plus points there inevitably has to be a downside. The X-Line does not cast particularly well, but I would suggest that if you are looking for a casting line then you’re not choosing a fluorocarbon anyway. Even the casters, however, will appreciate its properties as a leader material for stealth.

If you do a lot of fishing on small, pressured waters then X-Line is well worth checking out.

VERDICT

√ Sinks well and keeps everything pinned to the deck from the rod tips right down to the lead.

× Not the best choice if you fish at range.