Tough Leader

Many bass techniques call for braided line with a monofilament leader. When smallmouths are pounding suspending jerk baits, it's the best system to use. And the best line to use for leader material is Berkley's revolutionary new IronSilk.

The system requires a leader tied to the braid for shock absorption and stealth. Big fish can rip free when you tie directly with braids, and mono is less visible to the fish. The best way to connect the two lines is with back-to-back uni knots. But knots can be a problem. Fluorocarbon is so dense, knots often loosen, and have to be constantly checked. And, when you need abrasion resistance around rocks and wood, stiffer monofilaments allow less play for the bait.

Now we have a third option. Berkley IronSilk is neither monofilament or fluorocarbon. A new method of bonding and reinforcing nylon molecules makes this line limper and more abrasion-resistant than standard monofilaments. Tougher than fluorocarbons, too.

But one of the most amazing aspects of this new "Reinforced Polymer Matrix" is how well knots hold. A well-tied knot made with IronSilk simply won't slip. Ever. The line will wear out long before the knot does. That means more fish in the boat, less tackle lost, and less time spent tying knots. Which all adds up to more fun and less hassle. IronSilk represents a glimpse into the future of fishing line and, for right now, it's the best product out there for tying leaders to braided line.

Tough Line for Tough Fish

Anglers fishing in heavy cover like rock, wood, or shell beds need a tough line to get fish into the boat. Whether flipping jigs to bass in downed timber or pitching livebaits to snook in mangroves, you need a line that resists abrasion as the fish moves through cover.

Traditional "tough lines" aren't always easy to work with. Increased durability usually results in a higher diameter and stiffer feel, making them a better choice for baitcasting gear than for spinning reels -- especially in heavier breaking-strengths.

Berkley's new IronSilk, though, has proven to handle well in all conditions. IronSilk is the first line with a built-in molecular reinforcing network -- the nylon molecules are reinforced the way rebar strengthens concrete. It's more abrasion resistant than other tough lines and casts better, too.

The line feels fairly stiff and coils easily when it first comes off the spool. But after a few casts, which wets and stretches the line, the memory seems to disappear. This makes IronSilk a top choice in many fishing situations, even well away from cover.

Click here for more info...