Korda IQ2 Fluorocarbon Hooklink – Xtra Soft

Finding the balance between rig invisibility and natural bait movement is the “holy grail” of terminal tackle. At Gerry’s Fishing, we’ve seen the evolution of fluorocarbons, and the Korda IQ2 (Xtra Soft) remains a staple for a reason. Developed alongside top-tier anglers like Steve Renyard, IQ2 was born from a need for a material that offered the legendary invisibility of the original IQ but with a much softer, more supple finish.

While stiff fluorocarbons are fantastic for anti-tangle properties, they can sometimes be too rigid, preventing the bait from being sucked deep into a carp’s mouth. IQ2 solves this by providing “play” in the hooklink. It allows the bait to behave more like a natural free offering while remaining almost entirely invisible to the fish once submerged.

Key Features & Performance

• Ultimate Invisibility: Fluorocarbon has a refractive index almost identical to water. This means IQ2 doesn’t “glow” or cast a shadow like standard monofilament, making it the perfect choice for clear water and pressured venues.

• Supple “Xtra Soft” Texture: Unlike the original IQ, the IQ2 is significantly softer. This allows the hooklink to lay in subtle curves on the lake bed, especially when used with stringers or PVA bags, which looks more natural to a feeding fish.

• Superior Rig Mechanics: Because it is softer, IQ2 works beautifully with smaller hooks (sizes 8, 10, and 12). It reduces the “spring” effect that can lead to hook pulls when using stiffer materials with small, fine-wire hooks.

• Anti-Tangle Properties: Despite being softer than the original, it still possesses enough memory to push the hook bait away from the lead during the cast, ensuring your rig lands “fishing” every time.

• High Abrasion Resistance: Like all quality fluorocarbons, IQ2 is tough. It stands up well to gravel bars, mussels, and underwater debris better than standard nylon.

Technical Specifications

Examples of Where to Use

• The “Simple Complicated” Rig: As championed by Steve Renyard, use a longer 12-inch (30cm) hooklink of IQ2. This gives the fish enough room to suck in the bait and right themselves before they feel the weight of the lead, leading to rock-solid hook holds.

• Stringer Presentations: IQ2 is the perfect companion for boilie stringers. The weight of the stringer causes the supple hooklink to settle in a natural curve, creating a high-attraction “pile” of bait that looks far less suspicious than a perfectly straight line.

• Zig Rig Fishing: In the 10lb or 12lb versions, IQ2 is an exceptional Zig material. Its invisibility in the upper layers of the water column is unmatched, and its softness ensures the small hook isn’t “kicked out” at an awkward angle.

• Small Particle Baits: Use the lighter breaking strains with a size 10 Wide Gape hook and a single grain of plastic corn or maize. The suppleness allows this tiny bait to “waft” and move exactly like the freebies around it.

Gerry’s Pro Tip

The “Straightener” Trick:

Even though IQ2 is the “Xtra Soft” version, it still comes off the spool with a bit of a curve. To get the best out of it, give the hooklink a firm pull between two multi-pull tools or even just your hands. The heat generated by the tension will help straighten the material. For the absolute perfect finish, steam the hooklink over a boiling kettle—just a second or two in the steam will make it perfectly straight but still allow it to remain supple enough to follow the contours of the lake bed once it sinks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I choose IQ2 over the original IQ?

Choose IQ2 if you want more natural movement. The original IQ is a “stiff” hooklink designed for anti-eject properties. IQ2 is for when you want the bait to be sucked in easily, or when you are using smaller hooks that might be compromised by a very stiff material.

Can I use this for “D-Rigs”?

Yes, but it is better suited for standard knotless knot presentations or “Blow-back” rigs. If you want a very stiff “D” that stands away from the hook shank, the original IQ or Korda Mouthtrap might be a better choice for that specific part of the rig.

Is it really invisible?

Nothing is truly 100% invisible, but fluorocarbon is the closest science has gotten. Because it doesn’t distort light in the same way mono does, it is significantly harder for carp to detect via sight or their lateral line.

What knots should I use?

A standard Knotless Knot works perfectly for rig construction. For loops, we recommend a Figure-of-Eight loop knot. Always remember to lubricate your knots thoroughly with saliva before tightening fluorocarbon, as it is more susceptible to heat damage from friction than standard mono.