To get the best fishing experience, every angle must have a few tricks up their sleeve. One of the tricks that you can go with is the use of a leader. While most beginner anglers might not be aware of what leaders are or what they do, seasoned anglers tend to be very conversant with leaders.
Thankfully, I have prepared this short post to share with you some tips about a fishing leader. I will include why I use a leader when fishing too. But first, let us find out what a fishing leader really is.
What is a Leader?
When fishing, you can choose to attach a length of the line at the end of the main fishing line. This will form a separate length that you will tie your rigs or lures on. It is this separate length that’s called a leader.
There are specific types of leaders that, when used appropriately, make it difficult for the fish to spot your fishing line. As such, these types of leaders will increase your chances of getting the perfect catch.
Reasons for Using a Leader When Fishing
So why use a leader when fishing? There are many reasons for using a fishing leader. These reasons include:
Strengthen the Main Fishing Line
The first thing that a fishing leader does is to provide your main fishing line with the utmost protection. This is good for the line since it prevents any form of damage, including breakages from fish bites.
Make Bait Presentation Good
Next, the leader also gives the bait a better presentation. It makes the bait to stand out so that the fish can easily spot it. This way, the leader line maximizes your chances of getting the best catch from your fishing expedition.
For fly anglers, the leader is usually invisible. This makes it the best as the fish hardly sees the line but the bait and nothing else.
Guarantees Better Flexibility
Finally, the leader also guarantees better flexibility. This is so because of the leader rangers from 2 to 4 feet long. As such, it enables you to adjust your length of attack anytime you need it. It also ensures that you are working with an ideal length.
Using the Leader: What You Must Consider
If you want to use the leader, you should consider the possible conditions that your fishing line will be working under. These possible conditions will include.
Line Breaks
Is it possible for your line to break when you are fishing? There are fish with sharp teeth that can cut your line. These fish can easily break the line. Find out if they are many in the area that you intend to fish in.
Possible Snags
Are you going to fish in a rocky area? Your lines can easily get stuck around sharp rocks. Most of these snags are because the hook is trapped under a rock. A good leader will get your hook off easily.
Twisting Line
When the fish wriggles in the hook, your line can easily twist as you reel. Having a good leader makes the line strong; in turn, there won’t be any twisting that can break or make the line to get stuck.
Additional Information: Top Six Questions on Fishing Leaders
To shade more light on using a leader when fishing, here are some of the most common questions. These questions will be of great help for beginner anglers. That’s why I have decided to share them with you.
Should You Use a Leader on a Braided Fishing Line?
Yes. Most of the time, when you use a braided line, you should also use a leader. This is because the braided lines offer numerous benefits, including the best casting distance and strength. They also come with the best sensitivity levels.so by using a leader, you will make it an excellent fishing tool
Should the Leader be Stronger than My Main Line?
Yes. The leader usually is thicker than the mainline. As such, it is also stronger. However, its length varies depending on what you want to do. But when you plan on throwing lures, it is best to look at shorter leaders such that your casting isn’t impeded. Yet if you are using live bait, you have the freedom to choose what you want.
When is the Wire Leader Recommended for Fishing?
Wire leaders are best used when you are targeting the fish types that have sharp teeth. These types of fish include the following:
- Spanish Mackerel
- Barracuda,
- King Mackerel
- Bluefish
- Wahoo
- Tarpon
You can also use it if you are out shark-fishing. This is because the fish that have sharp teeth are fond of cutting through the monofilament and also the fluorocarbon fishing lines.
How Long Can a Leader Extend On Braided Lines?
From personal experience, I have worked with typical leader lengths that range between 2 and 4 feet. These types of leaders are the best since they also allow you to make some form of adjustments on the tackle.
Which Lines are Invisible Under Water?
The most invisible fishing line underwater is the fluorocarbon lines. However, they aren’t the strongest. The strongest lines like we saw are the braided lines. However, braided lines are also the most visible lines above the water. Whichever line that you choose, using a leader on any of them is awesome.
Can a Fluorocarbon Line be Used as a Leader?
Yes. If the fluorocarbon line is thick and abrasion-resistant then you can use it as a leader. That’s how most fly anglers use this line as a leader for their fishing errands. The line is nearly invisible underwater and therefore presents the best camouflage.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned why you should use a leader when fishing, I hope that your next fishing experience will be exciting. You can also choose to use a wire leader if you are gunning for the fish types with sharp teeth. Leaders are easy to use, and you can always choose one that suits your fishing spree.