Fluorocarbon Line vs Fluorocarbon Leader

[Shak Muscles]

I have been using braid with fluorocarbon line as my leader, but I'm going out to get some heavier lb test fluoro. I was wondering if I should get fluorocarbon leader line instead of just the regular line. The leader line is much more expensive and you only get spools of like 30 yards or so. Is it worth it to get fluoro leader line? What are the advantages/disadvantages?

[BiteFiend]

It depends. Since leader material is more durable than regular fluorocarbon, it would be better suited if you are fishing jagged rocks or zebra mussels. 

If you are not, regular fluorocarbon will do. 

[Turkey sandwich]

I've never spent a ton of money on leader specific FC.  I use Sniper and InvisX primarily when I want low visibility and Copolymer like Hybrid when I want abrasion resistance.  I don't fish around zebra mussels, so I can't comment about them, but 8-12lb Hybrid has proven close to indestructible for me in boulder ridden rivers.  Simply check the line after fish/snags and retie when necessary.  Last I checked, something ridiculous like $10 buys 500 yards of Hybrid.  CXX is pretty similar, in both price, strength, and durability, if I recall correctly.  

[MickD]

Leader FC is harder, stiffer, than line, and I think less likely to be damaged by either fish teeth, mussels, or rock, and is less likely to tangle.   If that is important, it has advantages to justify its price.  You don't use that much of it, especially if it gets damaged less, so the cost is less than it at first appears.  If your knot uses a lot of leader , you'll be using more of it.  Keep in mind that FC sinks, so either version is not the best for surface lures.  You can get hard mono which is very tough, and it floats.  Hard mono is available from fly shops.

[Shak Muscles]

Yeah I use senkos and other sinking baits primarily so I prefer fluoro over mono. AMD I think I'll just get regular line because my line usually doesn't get beat up a lot. I just thought that the leader material had other advantages other than durability.

[WRB]

If you are not using FC line on your reels, leader spools offer cost savings @ 50 yds for $10, why buy 200 yds for $35? Your choices will be limited in regards to color and # test.

Tom