5 Easy Steps to Tie On a Leader Line

Tying on a leader line is an essential skill for any angler. It allows you to connect your main line to a different type of line, such as fluorocarbon or braid. This can be useful for a variety of reasons, such as targeting specific fish species or fishing in different water conditions. While there are many different ways to tie on a leader line, the most common and effective method is the double surgeon’s knot. This knot is strong, reliable, and easy to tie. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to tie on a leader line using the double surgeon’s knot.

To begin, you will need to gather your materials. You will need your main line, your leader line, and a pair of scissors. Once you have your materials, you can follow these steps to tie the double surgeon’s knot:

• Pass the end of the leader line through the eye of the hook.
• Bring the end of the leader line back up and over the standing line.
• Pass the end of the leader line through the loop that you just created.
• Pull the end of the leader line tight to cinch the knot.
• Trim the excess line from the end of the leader line.

Once you have tied the double surgeon’s knot, you can be confident that your leader line is securely attached to your main line. This knot is strong enough to withstand even the most powerful fish, and it is also easy to tie, even in the field. With a little practice, you will be able to tie the double surgeon’s knot quickly and easily.

Choosing the Right Leader Line

When selecting a leader line, several factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance:

Material: Leader lines are typically made from either fluorocarbon or monofilament. Fluorocarbon is invisible underwater, making it ideal for stealthy presentations. However, it is more expensive and less forgiving than monofilament. Monofilament is more visible but more affordable and easier to handle.

Strength: The leader line’s strength should match the weight of the bait or lure being used. A lighter leader line can provide greater sensitivity and less visibility, while a heavier leader line offers increased strength and abrasion resistance.

Diameter: The diameter of the leader line can affect casting distance and lure presentation. A thinner diameter line casts farther but is more prone to tangles. A thicker diameter line is more difficult to cast but provides greater strength and abrasion resistance.

Length: The length of the leader line should be determined based on the target species and fishing technique. A shorter leader line is less likely to tangle but may limit lure presentation. A longer leader line offers greater distance and stealth but can be more susceptible to tangles.

Visibility: Fluorocarbon leader lines are virtually invisible underwater, making them ideal for targeting fish that are easily spooked. Monofilament leader lines are more visible but can be effective in low-light conditions or when targeting less wary fish.

Coating: Some leader lines are coated with a material that provides added abrasion resistance or reduces visibility. These coatings can improve the longevity and effectiveness of the leader line.

Tapered or Un-tapered: Tapered leader lines have a gradual transition in diameter, which reduces friction during casting. Un-tapered leader lines have a consistent diameter throughout their length.

Preparing the Main Line

Before you begin, you’ll need to prepare your main line by stripping away about 3 to 4 feet of the outer protective coating, exposing the inner core. Once the coating is removed, you’ll need to create a small loop at the end of exposed core, using either a loop knot or a surgeon’s knot. The loop should be large enough to accommodate the tippet ring of your leader.

Checking the Line

It’s crucial to ensure that your main line is in good condition before tying on a leader. Inspect the line for any nicks, cuts, or weak spots that could compromise its strength. If you find any damage, you should discard that section of the line and replace it with a new one.

Choosing the Right Line

The type of main line you use will depend on the specific fishing technique you’re employing and the target species. Generally speaking, heavier lines are used for saltwater fishing and trolling, while lighter lines are preferred for freshwater fishing and casting.

Tying the Surgeon’s Knot

The surgeon’s knot is a strong, reliable knot that can be used to tie a leader line to a main line. It is a good choice for offshore fishing, where knots are subject to a lot of stress. Here are the steps on how to tie the surgeon’s knot:

Step 1: Create two loops

Pass the end of the leader line through the eye of the hook and then back through the loop. This will create two loops, one on each side of the hook eye.

Step 2: Cross the loops

Cross the two loops over each other, making sure that the loop on the left side is on top of the loop on the right side.

Step 3: Pass the end through the loops

Take the end of the leader line and pass it through the two loops, from the bottom up. Then, pull the end tight to cinch the knot.

Step 4: Wet the knot

Before casting, wet the knot to help it hold. This will help the knot to tighten and stay secure.

Securing the Surgeon’s Knot with a Trim Knot

Once you’ve tied the surgeon’s knot, you’ll need to secure it with a trim knot. This will help to prevent the knot from coming undone and will give it a more finished appearance. To tie a trim knot, follow these steps:

Pass the end of the leader line through the loop of the surgeon’s knot.

Pull the end of the leader line through the loop until it’s about 3 inches long.

Make a small overhand knot in the end of the leader line.

Pull the overhand knot tight against the surgeon’s knot. The overhand knot should be perpendicular to the surgeon’s knot, and it should be snug against the surgeon’s knot but not so tight that it pulls the surgeon’s knot apart. Trim the excess leader line, leaving about 1/4 inch of the leader line beyond the overhand knot.

Your surgeon’s knot is now secure and ready to use.

Inserting the Leader Line

To insert the leader line, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1. Choose the right swivel size: Select a swivel size that is appropriate for the line you’re connecting and the swivel’s weight rating.
2. Cut the leader line: Measure and cut a length of leader line that is 12-18 inches longer than the distance between the rod tip and the swivel.
3. Thread the line through the swivel: Pass the leader line through the eye of one of the swivels.
4. Create a loop: At the other end of the leader line, create a small loop (about 1/4 inch) by doubling the line back on itself and securing it with a knot.
5. Secure the loop to the other swivel: Pass the loop through the eye of the other swivel and pull it tight to create a secure connection between the leader line and the reel line.