Question on Flurocarbon leader

[dtsman@bellsouth.net]

I started trying out Fluro leaders on braid line for worms and brushhawgs, about 12 to 14 inches. I used a double uni-knot to tie it, its has held up pretty well. My question is am I risking losing a big fish because of the tie on the leader? does it make a difference when flip/pitching into the thick? and should I use a swivel for the connection?

thanks

[Mudwalker]

I have heard both sides of the issue from many and use to tie my leaders directly. This year I started using a small swivel on one of my poles to test out and it has helped stop the line twist from transferring to the bait. So far no problems. I am sure you will hear other opinions for and against either method. I would use what ever you are comfortable with.

[shallow thinker]

I use either a mono or flouro leader on all set ups with braid.  This was a carry over from using leaders in saltwater but I think it has a couple of advantages for freshwater.

For very light braid (up to 30 lb test) I like to double the braid using a bimini then attach to the leader (double Uni).  Yes, the knot is large but I try to limit the leader to a foot or so and this means I'm not constantly winding it through the rod tip.

Heavier braid goes straight to some 30 lb leader.

I find that I have fewer knot issues with this set up then tying braid to lures or hooks.  Thin braid sneaks through the little gap in some hooks.  I sometimes have knots slip with the braid directly to the bait but that doesn't happen with mono or flouro.  (Yes, I could learn a double palomar or some other knots)  I also like mono for making very quick loop knots.

Another neat thing about using a leader is that it gives me some sense of where my bait is when pitching or flipping.  That bimini sits 2-3 feet above the lure so I can tell if my bait penetrates the cover or is getting hung up.

Lots of guys tie braid directly to tackle... My preference is to use a short leader.

[John J.]

I use the same method (double uni-knot) the problem with swivels is you have essentially three weak points.

Main line to swivel, leader to swivel and leader to lure. With the double uni-knot (you could argue otherwise), you potentially have two weak spots.

uni-knot and the leader to lure.

I've never had any problems. It all depends on how well you tied the double uni. Lubricate (with saliva) the knot BEFORE drawing the two knots together this will provide a smoother slide and a stronger knot.

No matter what if you tie a leader it's not as strong as just the main line. How you tie a leader on is just personal preference.

Mudwalker: I'll use a swivel in the case of lures that cause line twists (for me often spoons). I'm not saying you're wrong or you shouldn't use a swivel, I am just stating my personal preference and my reasoning for it. Please don't get defensive, I didn't mean to be offensive.

[SoFlaBassAddict]

  Quote

I use either a mono or flouro leader on all set ups with braid. This was a carry over from using leaders in saltwater but I think it has a couple of advantages for freshwater.

For very light braid (up to 30 lb test) I like to double the braid using a bimini then attach to the leader (double Uni). Yes, the knot is large but I try to limit the leader to a foot or so and this means I'm not constantly winding it through the rod tip.

Heavier braid goes straight to some 30 lb leader.

I find that I have fewer knot issues with this set up then tying braid to lures or hooks. Thin braid sneaks through the little gap in some hooks. I sometimes have knots slip with the braid directly to the bait but that doesn't happen with mono or flouro. (Yes, I could learn a double palomar or some other knots) I also like mono for making very quick loop knots.

Another neat thing about using a leader is that it gives me some sense of where my bait is when pitching or flipping. That bimini sits 2-3 feet above the lure so I can tell if my bait penetrates the cover or is getting hung up.

Lots of guys tie braid directly to tackle... My preference is to use a short leader.

You know, I don't think you could have answered that any better.  Great answer.

Personally, I use an Albright or an Alberto for mainline to leader connections.

[dtsman@bellsouth.net]

Thanks everyone for the help. 

[DaveSurfs]

For me it depends on what's on the end of the flouro leader. If the lure spins, or current is up and you expect your bait may spin, then a swivel makes it easy to avoid potential tangles. I use Spro 50lb test swivels. They're tiny, strong, well made and smooth in the water. Depending on the length of the leader, I may put a bead above the swivel to keep it out of my tip guide. I generally use longer leader (3-4ft) in clearer water.

If a simple drop shot or jig and pig with less chance of spin, uni to uni works fine.

Best of luck & Tight Lines!

[Mudwalker]

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Mudwalker: I'll use a swivel in the case of lures that cause line twists (for me often spoons). I'm not saying you're wrong or you shouldn't use a swivel, I am just stating my personal preference and my reasoning for it. Please don't get defensive, I didn't mean to be offensive.

No offense here.  I have learned that there are many ways to do things and no particular way is 100% correct.  Except for which end of the pole you should put the reel on of course!

[John J.]

  Quote

  Quote

Mudwalker: I'll use a swivel in the case of lures that cause line twists (for me often spoons). I'm not saying you're wrong or you shouldn't use a swivel, I am just stating my personal preference and my reasoning for it. Please don't get defensive, I didn't mean to be offensive.

No offense here. I have learned that there are many ways to do things and no particular way is 100% correct. Except for which end of the pole you should put the reel on of course!

Haha exactly!