jaximus wrote on Feb 17^th, 2011 at 3:58pm:

with that said, however, i went to gander yesterday and picked up a small spool of the P-line flourocarbon and some tiny barrel swivels. i tied a 2 foot section of flouro as a leader. i ended up getting 12# stuff because it was in the clearance bin. i had some trouble tying the polomar knot, which is what all the internet sources recommended. i dont know if it was just because it was 12# test or if all flourocarbons are that hard to tie? any advice would be great. took me 15 minutes and 2 pairs of pliers to get 2 good looking knots...

I use a lot of FC but usually don't mess with it in canoe country although I am definitely a believer. I like the seaguar brand FC. I have also used Gamma FC with good results. I am suspicious of what you have being in the clearance rack. One might ask why? Perhaps it is really, really old. See if you can return it would be my suggestion.

Some thoughts on FC. You must snug your knots slowly and they should be wet. I like to alternately tighten and relax and then tighten some more. FC has a tendency to get hot real fast when you tighten a knot. That will ruin your chances. Take your time snugging it down.

I have had some "issues" tying FC to very small diameter wire like tiny spro barrel swivels. I dislike the polamar under any circumstances although it is a darling of some very good fishermen including tournament pros. I have seen a study where the polamar does not do well under sudden loads. Steady pressure good......sudden load bad.

If you are set on using the tiny barrel swivels try this. Double your line and tie a 3 turn improved clinch knot. Make sure all the loops stay organized. With the line doubled it will be actually 6 turns. You must have enough tag end to be able to tighten the tag and the running line together at the same time. This is an excellent knot and is usually 100% although it is a little bulky. This knot was tested as one of the very strongest for mono. I was surprised to say the least.

Have you considered a solid ring instead of a barrel swivel? I use that connection quite a bit. Works very nicely and the slightly added thickness of the wire makes for a little better tie and it is still fairly discreet.

Mostly I use a tie fast knot tool with FC. Works very well. If you are still having trouble even with the tie fast (use the gryp knot) then vary the amount of loops. More loops for thin line less for thick.

If after all this you can't get one to stick throw it in the trash and get some seaguar from some place where you know it is fresh. Yes FC can be frustrating until you get it down but when it's right good things can happen for you.