What Is Used As a Leader on a Fly Fishing Line?
Overview Fly fishing leaders consist of portions of tapered monofilament line that connect the fly line to the fly. Choosing the proper length and strength of leader is essential to maximize casting distance, encourage fish strikes and keep the line from breaking while fighting the fish. The style and dimensions of the leader will vary, depending on the size of the fly, the type of fish sought and weather conditions. Types Fly fishing leaders come in two principle varieties. The first style of leader is the traditional, knotted leader, which is made by hand-tying short sections of progressively-lighter monofilament to one another. In recent years, technology has permitted a second variety to emerge: the knotless tapered leader. Knotless leaders consist of monofilament that is drawn out so that the diameter decreases consistently from the line-end of the leader to the fly-end.