I tie a fluorocarbon leader to my braid.

Leader is sold with less yards on the spool and is priced higher per yard than fluorocarbon line.

Is this just a marketing ploy or is there a real difference?

 

There is a difference. Actual leader material is stiffer than line.

I just use regular spools of fluoro, but some use the actual

leader material, especially locally in salt water, for better 

abrasion resistance to the oysters, etc.

Originally Fluorocarbon was only available in short leader spools and it's been carried for those anglers who prefer using FC as a leader only.

Back in the late 80's Seagaur was your only choice before Sunline came out in the early 90's with Shooter FC on 300 meter filler spools. Today you have a wide range of choices for FC line from various mfr's, spool sizes, performance quality and prices range.

Tom

The stiffer leader material FC also offers an advantage when fishing blade baits.  Its stiffness minimizes tangles of the lure and leader both in casting and working the lure.

Seaguar Red Label FC is all I use for leaders. I've seen no reason to pay more for less.

I use the "residual" from Tatsu spools.