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Posts: 786
| With 125-130lb. fluorocarbon, 174lb. wire standard for most lure applications, the question I have is what size leader would you use for downsized baits? Baits in that 1/2oz to 1.5 ounce range. I don't want to go to light, but on the other hand, still want to play it safe. Also, would the heavy leader hinder some of the action of the smaller bait? And, do you shorten the leader somewhat from 12-14 inches to maybe six to nine? kdawg |
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Posts: 1161
| Buy AFW stainless leader wire in both 124lb and 174lb x 30' bags at Fleet Farm and make your own. Most cost effective by far and super easy to make. All-purpose leaders get a swivel but if you have dedicated glide bait combos, they do not need a swivel. It doesn't take long to make a bunch up of different sizes. A round-nosed pliers makes it easier too but is not totally necessary.
I would avoid using fluorocarbon any lighter than 130lb. Some guys don't like using fluoro at all.
I would definitely recommend making them. Otherwise, Stealth Tackle makes some spring and swimbait leaders that would fit the bill. |
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Posts: 1294
Location: Stevens Point, Wi. | Although 124# is more than sufficient, I prefer 174#. The 124# bends or kinks too easily, making more frequent replacement. |
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Posts: 1161
| I get your point, but to answer the OP question - the lighter wire is certainly better for the action on small baits. Just about anything 6" and under runs better with 124#, specifically the smaller swimmin dawgs and 6" phantoms. And if you buy the coil like I said, you can make them in no time and for such a minimal cost that I don't care how often I need to change them out. |
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Posts: 1762
Location: Mt. Zion, IL | I use 30 lb titanium tooth proof and crimp it for very small lures, just be sure to read the instructions, double over the tag, and test a few while you’re figuring out how to get them solid. I use a flush cutter to keep the tag from interfering with the snap or swivel.
I did have to get a crimper with different diameter dies, but after that, they have been good to go. They are not kink proof, but about 10x more resistant than steel. If they curl, you can straighten them by pulling on them hard (snap over a punch in the vice and pull hard), or by curling them opposite of what direction they lay. |
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Posts: 2087
| for really small stuff (at or under an oz) ... tieable titanium is impossible to beat.. i've used it for over 15 years especially in saltwater and pike fishing. 3 turn clinch knot is all you need, the worst thing you can do is over tighten...its GREAT stuff!!
Edit - I wanted to point out make sure your getting single strand titanium to tie it...i use all the way down to like 15Lb for fly fishing pike... i fish jerkbaits a lot for walleyes doesn't seam to hurt catch rate at all and you land the darn gators that love cranks/jerks as well |
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