How long should My leader length be?

[TriStateBassin106]

Hello all, 

 

Recently I had the opportunity to try out 30LB Power pro on my Baitcaster and after tying my flurocarbon leader I noticed it was longer than I had expected, when I began reeling the spool the knot and leader was reeled on the spool.

 

Is this good to have in terms of leader length? Or should the leader be shorter to where it doesn't get reeled on the spool.

 

I feel like if I keep it long like this it will cause issues casting, any suggestions? How long should my leaders be? 

[NHBull]

If I am using a leader, it is never long enough to make it to the reel.

I also use a PR or FG knot to pass through the guides easier.

These days I don't use as much leader as I once did.

Good luck

[roadwarrior]

1 minute ago, NHBull said:

If I am using a leader, it is never long enough to make it to the reel.

[Russ E]

there are a lot of different opinions on leader length. generally I start out with the knot between the reel and the first eyelet. In my own experience, when the knot is on the reel it tends to slap on the first eyelet. If I keep the knot  out of the reel this does not seem to happen. I get a new leader after it gets below about 3 foot long. usually I can retie around 3 times before replacing it.

[TriStateBassin106]

1 minute ago, Russ E said:

there are a lot of different opinions on leader length. generally I start out with the knot between the reel and the first eyelet. In my own experience, when the knot is on the reel it tends to slap on the first eyelet. If I keep the knot  out of the reel this does not seem to happen. I get a new leader after it gets below about 3 foot long. usually I can retie around 3 times before replacing it.

Thanks Russ! That makes more sense, I'm just getting into braid now and there never really was a definite definition of what the length should be 

[Bass Rutten]

A good rule of thumb is to make it the same length as your rod, that will usually place the knot just off your reel.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

First of all, why do feel you need a leader at all? 

[Russ E]

10 minutes ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

First of all, why do feel you need a leader at all? 

This is a good question. Honestly in a lot of situations I don't feel a leader is necessary. The visibility issue of braid is over rated for the small diameter lines used on spinning gear.

My purpose for using a leader here in Kansas is zebra mussels.

Mainly for bottom contact lures like shakyheads and neko rigs. 

Those little clams are hard on braid. I had quite a few mysterious breakoffs, before I started using leaders.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

34 minutes ago, Russ E said:

This is a good question. Honestly in a lot of situations I don't feel a leader is necessary. The visibility issue of braid is over rated for the small diameter lines used on spinning gear.

My purpose for using a leader here in Kansas is zebra mussels.

Mainly for bottom contact lures like shakyheads and neko rigs. 

Those little clams are hard on braid. I had quite a few mysterious breakoffs, before I started using leaders.

Yup, zebras and braid don’t play nice together. I’d go with a longer leader like you’ve been doing. A well tied slim knot like an Albright will pass the guides with no problem. Casting may be affected to a degree but not a dealbreaker imo. Reeling in the knot isn’t a big deal either but you can shorten up a little without losing anything. Bottom line don’t overthink it and adjust as necessary on the fly. 

[Yumeya]

I make my leader from the tip top guide to the rods hook holder, that way the knot never makes it to the reel when casting.

 

FG knot always...

[waymont]

11 hours ago, Yumeya said:

I make my leader from the tip top guide to the rods hook holder, that way the knot never makes it to the reel when casting.

 

FG knot always...

Same here. It's a good way to make sure your knot doesn't go into the reel.

[Big Rick]

11 hours ago, Yumeya said:

FG knot always...

THIS^^^^ IF I need a leader. And it'll fit thru the guides with ease. I've even tied it a little long and had no issues going thru the T-Wing line guide on my Tatula....