Leader length

[slowride]

What about leader length? Now that I have decided to switch and go with a flourocarbon leader, I am wondering if I need to change leader lengths. I have notice that most people use a much longer leader than I do. I know it depends on what type of bait and what type of water. If I am fishing a lake my leader probably never exceeds 12 to 14 inches, but if I am using live bait I will shorten it up to about 8 inches. If I am on a river I usaully go somewhere between 6 and 10 inches. But after watching many videos I see that a lot of people are using what appears to be 18 to 24 inches.

So here`s the question, I would like to know what lenghth you use in any give situation and why.

[Mickey]

I like to use a leader length of 18-24" depending on the structure and the bait that I'm using that day.

[JPritch]

I use ~24" leaders for tidal rivers. Can't speak to what's effective on lakes. In an old In-Fisherman article Jim Moyer said he prefers longer leaders in current because it gives the bait more movement. I've been doing it ever since. I can't verify how true that is, but I have no complaints with that setup.

[glassprorob]

I use ~24" leaders for tidal rivers. Can't speak to what's effective on lakes. In an old In-Fisherman article Jim Moyer said he prefers longer leaders in current because it gives the bait more movement. I've been doing it ever since. I can't verify how true that is, but I have no complaints with that setup.

x2

[slowride]

I use ~24" leaders for tidal rivers. Can't speak to what's effective on lakes. In an old In-Fisherman article Jim Moyer said he prefers longer leaders in current because it gives the bait more movement. I've been doing it ever since. I can't verify how true that is, but I have no complaints with that setup.

I am not sure there is really a right or wrong answer on this. I usually stay on the shorter side but I think I`ll do some experementing this year and try some longer lengths. Thanks for the input.

[metalman]

If you get to fish with Adam at the New Amsterdam gathering be sure to ask him about the "Official" leader length. I bet you didn't know there was such a thing

...W

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[BIG GEORGE]

Go short with live baits like eels. It will keep ya from cussin. All other baits I don't see a need to be exact.

[Keith Mette]

I am not sure there is really a right or wrong answer on this. I usually stay on the shorter side but I think I`ll do some experementing this year and try some longer lengths. Thanks for the input.

If your not confused yet, here let me help. You don't really need any sometimes , like in brush.
All it takes is a hook, a bead to protect the knot, and a no roll sinker. Fish don't really know what a sinker is.
If there is a lot of current, put the no roll on backwards. Works good for channel cat with cut bait, stinkbait, and with live bait of any size when you feel the bait pull just let out a bit of line, just a little like 6" to 8", but only in current as they will swim back of the sinker and wrap up like your worst night mare. Only way your going to know what works for you is try it.
Glad I could help.

[IFitSWIMS]

David i let the fishing conditions determine my leader length.When you get on the water just start asking yourself questions .Like what is the current speed? What is the activity level of the fish ? What kind of bait am i using? How heavy is the cover in the area ?What type of water am i fishing(lake ,river,res,creek).The answers to these questions will help determine your leader length and other things as well.

[catfisherman369]

I use about an 18" to 20" leader in rivers and lakes with live or cut baits . I used to use those assorted packs of steel leaders they would be from 6 to 12" . I only used those 6" suckers if I was out of 9 to 12" but after time I hated those steel leaders and started making my own .

I have also used a 36" leader carolina rigged with a fixed 1/2 oz. egg sinker in the middle of the leader line while using large bluegills as bait . The 1/2 oz. of lead on the leader caused the big gills to struggle more which attracts flatties .

You just have to mess around with what you like best and feels comfortable to you and your style or place of fishing .