Leaders

[MuskieMike]

just wondering, do you use them? if so why and when? also, what kind?

[JoelTinker]

Mike,
I have made my own leaders for years. Too many failures with store bought ones, weak snaps, crimps letting loose, etc.

I use 60# or 90# seven stran uncoated wire. I do not use crimps as they are unreliable and inconsistant in application. Instead I use what is called a hay bale knot (a series of twists), attached to a heavy duty swivel on one end and a heavy duty snap on the other.

My casting leaders are about 12"s long and my trolling leaders are no shorter then 36"s. The great thing is they are cheep to make - under 30 cents apiece.

I have tried florocarbon leaders, but the second year of using them I had a couple of cut offs that soured me on their use. Many folks report good success with them, however. While trolling, a leader is a must as many fish seem to roll in the line to a greater degree than while casting (not sure why). I would not be afraid to cast without a leader, have in the past, but it is a comfort thing having one on.

Joel Tinker
Top Tackle Guide Service
www.toptackle.com