Ultra Premium Fluorocarbon Tippet

Cortland Ultra Premium Fluorocarbon Tippet is designed for subsurface fly fishing where low visibility, abrasion resistance, and reliable knot strength are critical. Fluorocarbon is denser than nylon, so it sinks faster and helps maintain a more direct connection to the fly in moving water.

Use it when: fishing nymphs or wet flies, in clear water, or around rocks and structure.

Do not use it when: fishing dry flies where buoyancy and drift matter more than sinking and abrasion resistance.

• Anglers who primarily fish nymphs, wet flies, and subsurface rigs
• Clear or pressured water situations where reduced visibility matters
• Rivers and streams where tippet regularly contacts rocks, gravel, or wood
• Anyone who wants fluorocarbon performance with consistent, dependable handling

• Low visibility underwater Fluorocarbon's optical properties are closer to water than nylon, which can reduce visibility in clear conditions. This is most valuable on subsurface presentations where fish have time to inspect the fly.
• Abrasion resistance Fluorocarbon generally resists abrasion well, which helps when your drift ticks bottom, slides along rocks, or brushes structure. This is a practical advantage in fast or technical water.
• Sink Rate Because fluorocarbon is dense than nylon, it tends to sink faster. That can help your fly reach depth sooner, reduce line sag, and improve contact on tight-line and nymphing presentations.
• Knot strength and consistency Fluorocarbon is less forgiving than nylon when knots are rushed or not seated cleanly. For best results, lubricate knots before tightening and seat them smoothly and steadily.

Choose this tippet if:

• You fish subsurface most of the time (nymphs or wet flies)
• Water is clear or fish are pressured
• You need abrasion resistance near rocks or structure
• You want a tippet material that helps maintain depth and direct contact

Is fluorocarbon tippet better than nylon?

Fluorocarbon is often the better choice for subsurface fishing because it sinks faster and offers abrasion resistance. Nylon is usually preferred for dry flies because it is more supple and buoyant.

When should I use fluorocarbon tippet?

Use fluorocarbon tippet for nymphing and wet-fly fishing, especially in clear water, pressured situations, or where abrasion is a concern.

Does fluorocarbon sink faster than nylon?

Yes. Fluorocarbon is dense than nylon, so it generally sinks faster and helps maintain depth and contact on subsurface presentations.

Can I use fluorocarbon tippet for dry flies?

You can, but it is usually not ideal. Fluorocarbon tends to sink, which can pull the leader down and reduce flotation and drift quality. Nylon is typically the better choice for dry flies.