Monofilament - Leader

Choosing Leaders

Regardless of the type, diameter, and breaking strength of the main line, in most cases, we need a few meters of leader made from a thicker and stronger line to reduce the risk of the main line breaking during the cast and fight. We certainly don’t want to lose the sinker and rig when casting, especially if the sinker could end up on the shore where other anglers are. And of course, we want to see the fish in the net, not lose it sometimes right after a strike.

The correct choice of leader helps ensure the safety of both anglers and fish.

As a leader, we can use any of the three types of lines: monofilament, braided, or fluorocarbon. The main role of the leader is to protect the main line, effectively reducing the risk of it breaking during casting or fighting. When fishing by hand at extreme distances and having to use thin lines, we need a stronger leader that won’t break under the force of the cast. If permitted, the best choice is a braided leader, the thinnest that can handle the weight we are about to cast (sinker, rig, feeder, bait rocket). A breaking strength of at least 45lbs or 50lbs, to be safer, which is around or over 20kg, should be sufficient for most situations. The minimum length of the leader is also important. It should be calculated so that we have four turns of leader on the spool, with the sinker positioned in the casting position.