Thread: Leader Strength Optimum Size

For surf fishing, both close and far out for whatever is biting. If a person can only have one strength bite/shock leader, either in mono or flouro, What size would be best?

I'd go with 20# as a compromise. Lighter is better for pomps and whiting, heavier for the rough mouth on a big redfish. (But not a lot heavier.)

Depends on what you are throwing.

If you are trying to get some distance and are putting some force into your casts - I use a 50lb shock leader tied to a 20lb main line. That is what I use on my 12' bait casters when throwing 8oz plus bait from the surf.

For light stuff, 20lb is all you will need. It's just to keep the bluefish and trout from cutting your line.

I personally like to fish 10-12 lb floro, some of the tastier fish can be a little leader shy. If you start getting bit off, then you can always upgrade..but fishing too heavy will cost you bites that you never knew were there, especially if the water is clear.