As boaters and anglers, we often hear the expression “a leader is only a fishing line”. But is this really true? Many anglers consider the leader to be a crucial component of their fishing set up.
Firstly, let’s define what a leader is. A leader is a length of fishing line that is attached to the end of the main fishing line. Its purpose is to provide a few key benefits to the angler. Firstly, it helps to prevent fish from seeing the main line, which can often be thicker and more visible. Secondly, it can provide increased abrasion resistance, preventing the fish from breaking off when it rubs against rocks or other sharp objects.
So, is a leader just a fishing line? Some anglers might argue that it is. After all, a leader is just an additional length of line that is attached to the end of the main line. However, others would argue that the leader provides specific benefits that make it more than just a regular fishing line.
For example, a leader can be made of a different material than the main line, such as fluorocarbon or monofilament. These materials have different properties than the main line, and choosing the right leader can make a huge difference to your fishing success. A fluorocarbon leader, for example, is virtually invisible underwater and can be very effective for catching finicky fish that are easily spooked.
Another benefit of using a leader is that it can help to improve casting distance and accuracy. A heavier main line can sometimes cause the bait or lure to fall short of the desired target, but using a lighter leader can help the bait to fly farther and land more precisely.
While some anglers may argue that a leader is just a fishing line, it is clear that the leader provides specific benefits that make it a crucial component of any angler’s set-up. Choosing the right leader can help to improve your chances of catching fish and can make a huge difference to your overall fishing success. So, if you’re not already using a leader, it’s definitely something worth considering!