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To have the best fishing experience, it is important to make sure that your fishing equipment is best suited to the weather, the condition of the water you are fishing in and the type of fish that you are after. The less the fish can see your line, the less likely they are to get spooked, so one of the most important items to have in your fishing inventory is the fishing leader line. Leader fishing lines (or Leader) are critical in any angler's tackle box because they're designed to improve overall performance while protecting the main line. Whether you're casting in clear water or aiming to catch fish with sharp teeth, the leader fishing line offers durability and stealth. For newcomers and seasoned anglers alike, using a fishing leader line is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of breaking lines while increasing the chances of a successful catch. It's especially useful in environments with rocky structures, abrasive surfaces, or toothy predators that can quickly damage your regular line. Discover our selection of virtually invisible, top-quality, strong fishing leader lines for successful fishing adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tying all types of fishing lines to a leader or braid requires strong knots, with the FG Knot and Double Uni Knot being two of the most reliable. The FG Knot offers a low-profile connection, making it ideal for braided lines, while the Double Uni Knot is versatile and easier to tie. Make sure to practise tying these knots properly, as a secure knot is essential for preventing line slippage and ensuring strength during the fight with a fish. To tie a leader to a braided fishing line, the FG Knot creates a slim connection, allowing for smooth casting and minimising the chance of the knot getting caught in the guides. Begin by wrapping the braid around the leader, and tighten the knot by pulling both ends. This ensures a secure, strong bond that holds up under pressure, perfect for battling larger fish.
The key difference between a leader line and a fishing line is their purpose. A leader line is typically stronger and more resistant to abrasion, used to withstand tough conditions and reduce visibility in the water. On the other hand, the main fishing line is designed to handle casting and reeling but is often less durable in harsh environments. A fishing leader line complements the mainline by adding strength and invisibility where it matters most.
Attaching a wire leader to your fishing line can be done using the Haywire Twist or an Albright Knot or using fishing accessories such as swivels and clips. The Haywire Twist is perfect for wire leaders, as it locks the wire in place without cutting into itself, ensuring it remains intact during fights with aggressive fish. For attaching monofilament or braided lines to wire leaders, the Albright Knot works well, providing a secure connection between different materials.
A stronger leader line is useful when you're dealing with tough conditions, such as fishing near rocky structures or coral or targeting species with sharp teeth, like barramundi. A thicker, more durable leader offers better abrasion resistance and can handle the stress of aggressive fish strikes. For instance, using a 60lb leader on a 15lb mainline is recommended when chasing species with sharp gill plates or teeth. The stronger leader line helps prevent breakage while still allowing for the flexibility and castability of a thinner mainline.
A thinner leader line is ideal when you need to maintain stealth in clear water or are focused on maximising your casting distance. A leader that is slightly weaker than the mainline, such as using a 12lb leader with a 15lb mainline, helps ensure that if you get snagged, the leader breaks before the mainline, preserving your setup. Thinner leaders are also beneficial when targeting fish that are easily spooked by visible lines, giving you a better chance of a successful catch.