When you learned to fish, you may have been taught to tie your lure directly to the end of your fishing line. While this technique is perfectly functional, many anglers have improved their success rate by using leader lines. A leader line is a length of specialized line that is tied between the lure and the end of the fishing line. This crucial piece of fishing gear is less visible to fish while offering more strength to the line overall. This brief guide explores the benefits of leaders and offers tips for using them effectively.

The Benefits of Leaders

Added Durability

Depending on the type of leader you buy, the benefits will be slightly different, but most leaders offer greater durability and resistance to breaking. Most leaders have a little bit of stretch, which absorbs impact from aggressive fish biting the line and pulling. They also have greater resistance to abrasion, making them more suited for rocky areas where your line might get snagged.

Greater Invisibility

Some types of leader lines absorb a high percentage of sunlight, and others have a refractive index that matches that of water. In both cases, the end result is a line that fish are less likely to see, making the bait look natural and more appealing. If you're fishing in clear waters, you'll want a leader with a refractive index similar to water. This line will refract light the same way water does, making it effectively invisible. In deeper waters, there's less light, so the refractive index isn't as important and you can simply use a leader that absorbs the light it encounters. 

How to Use them

The exact best method for using a leader will always depend on the type of fishing you're doing, but there are a few general tips you can follow when first starting out. Start with approximately 2 feet of leader. This gives it plenty of distance from the fishing line while allowing room for stretching. See how comfortable this feels, and increase your length as needed. You can tie your leader to the rest of your line using either the Albright knot or the Double Uni knot. The Albright knot offers high break strength and is ideal if the diameters of your lines are drastically different. The Double Uni knot is easy to tie and has a low profile, meaning it will travel along the rod easily. You can connect your lure to the leader just like you normally would.

Another piece of fishing gear you may want to combine with a leader is a swivel. This keeps your line from tangling and is generally favored by anglers of all kinds. 

If you're looking for new fishing gear, turn to J&M Tackle in Orange Beach, AL. For nearly 35 years, these fishing experts have helped local anglers and tourists alike get kitted out with the best gear for every kind of fishing trip. Learn more about their fishing gear online, and call (251) 981-5460 to inquire about inventory.