5 Easy Steps to Tie On a Leader Line

diagram of how 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.

Line Type	Uses
Monofilament	All-around versatility, good knot strength
Fluorocarbon	Low visibility, abrasion resistance
Braided	High strength, no stretch

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.

Advantages of the Surgeon’s Knot	Disadvantages of the Surgeon’s Knot
Very strong and reliable	Can be difficult to tie correctly
Good for offshore fishing	Not as strong as some other knots

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.

Step	Description
1	Pass the end of the leader line through the loop of the surgeon’s knot.
2	Pull the end of the leader line through the loop until it’s about 3 inches long.
3	Make a small overhand knot in the end of the leader line.
4	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.

Inserting the Leader Line

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

Choose the right swivel size: Select a swivel size that is appropriate for the line you’re connecting and the swivel’s weight rating.
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.
Thread the line through the swivel: Pass the leader line through the eye of one of the swivels.
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.
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.

Swivel Size Guide

Knot Options

Reel Line < 20 lbs
Swivel Sizes: #0-#2

Uni Knot
Trilene Knot
Palomar Knot

Reel Line 20-50 lbs
Swivel Sizes: #3-#5

Improved Clinch Knot
Double Uni Knot
Albright Knot

Reel Line 50+ lbs
Swivel Sizes: #6-#8

Double Surgeon’s Knot
Bimini Twist Knot
Albright Specialist Knot

Wrapping the Leader Line

Wrapping the leader line around the mainline is a critical step in creating a secure and effective connection. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a successful wrap:

Step 1: Determine the Length

Estimate the length of leader line needed by measuring the distance between the mainline and the intended target. Add an extra 6-8 inches for the wrap.

Step 2: Create a Loop

Form a loop in the end of the leader line by passing it through itself, leaving a tail of about 3-4 inches.

Step 3: Position the Loop

Position the loop over the mainline at the desired location for the connection, approximately 1-2 inches from the target area.

Step 4: Wrap the Line

Take the long end of the leader line and wrap it around the mainline, passing it through the loop. Make 5-8 complete wraps, ensuring each wrap is tight and close to the previous one.

Step 5: Secure the Wraps

Pull the leader line tight to cinch the wraps down. Then, fold the tail of the leader line over the last wrap and secure it with a firm cinch.

Step 6: Trim the Excess

Trim any excess leader line, leaving a small stump (about 1/4 inch) beyond the final wrap. This will prevent the line from fraying or snagging. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a specialized fishing tool (such as a line trimmer) for a clean cut.

Length of Mainline (in.)	Number of Wraps
6-10	5-6
10-15	6-7
15-20	7-8

Tightening the Wraps

Now that you have the surgeon’s knot tied, it is time to tighten the wraps. This step is important as it will ensure that the connection between the two lines is strong and secure.

Hold the loose end of the leader line in one hand and the hook in the other.
Wrap the leader line around the standing line seven times, keeping the wraps tight and close together.
Make sure that each wrap goes over the top of the standing line and under the leader line.
As you wrap, pull the leader line tight to ensure that the connection is secure.
Once you have completed the seven wraps, moisten the wraps with saliva or water.
Now, hold the standing line and the hook in one hand, and the loose end of the leader line in the other.
Pull on both ends of the line simultaneously, tightening the wraps and securing the connection.
Trim off any excess leader line.

Your surgeon’s knot is now complete. Test the knot by pulling on both ends of the line. It should be strong and secure.

Step	Description
1	Hold the loose end of the leader line in one hand and the hook in the other.
2	Wrap the leader line around the standing line seven times, keeping the wraps tight and close together.
3	Make sure that each wrap goes over the top of the standing line and under the leader line.
4	As you wrap, pull the leader line tight to ensure that the connection is secure.
5	Once you have completed the seven wraps, moisten the wraps with saliva or water.
6	Hold the standing line and the hook in one hand, and the loose end of the leader line in the other.
7	Pull on both ends of the line simultaneously, tightening the wraps and securing the connection.
8	Trim off any excess leader line.

Securing the Leader Line with a Figure-Eight Knot

The Figure-Eight Knot is a simple and secure knot to attach the leader line to the main line. It is commonly used in fishing due to its strength and reliability.

Materials Required:

Item	Quantity
Main line	1
Leader line	1

Steps:

1. Pass the leader line through the eye of the hook or swivel.
2. Bring the leader line back over the main line, crossing it from behind.
3. Pass the leader line under the main line and up through the loop created in step 2.
4. Bring the leader line over the main line again, crossing it from the front.
5. Pass the leader line through the loop created in step 3.
6. Pull on both the main line and leader line to tighten the knot.
7. Wet the knot with saliva or water, then slide it down the main line to the desired position.
8. **Detailed Step 8:**
1. Holding the main line taught with one hand, grab the leader line with the other hand.
2. Wrap the leader line around the main line twice, forming two overlapping loops.
3. Pass the leader line through the first loop (the one closest to the hook or swivel).
4. Pull on the leader line to tighten the loop.
5. Wrap the leader line around the main line again, this time passing it through the second loop (the one farthest from the hook or swivel).
6. Pull on both the main line and leader line to secure the knot.

Testing the Connection

Once you have tied your leader line to the mainline, it is important to test the connection to ensure that it is strong and secure. Here’s how to test the connection:

Step 1: Apply Tension

Hold both the mainline and the leader line in opposite hands and gently apply tension. Gradually increase the tension until you feel confident that the connection is secure.

Step 2: Inspect the Knot

Examine the knot carefully to make sure that it is tight and there are no loose or frayed ends. If the knot appears to be loose or insecure, retighten it.

Step 3: Use a Clinch Knot Tool

If you have a clinch knot tool, use it to apply further tension to the knot. This tool can help to ensure that the knot is extremely tight and secure.

Step 4: Shake the Line

Once you have tightened the knot, shake the line vigorously to test its strength. The connection should hold firm without any signs of slipping.

Step 5: Cast a Sinker

Attach a small sinker to the end of the leader line and cast it out. Observe the sinker as it falls to the bottom. If the connection is secure, the sinker should descend smoothly without any jerking or hesitation.

Additional Safety Check

To ensure maximum safety, it is recommended to repeat the test connection after every few casts, especially if you are using a particularly heavy lure or fishing in rough conditions.

How to Tie On a Leader Line

A leader line is a short section of fishing line that is attached to the end of your main line. It is used to connect your main line to your lure or bait. Leader lines are typically made of a different material than your main line, such as fluorocarbon or wire. This is because different materials have different properties that can be beneficial in different situations.

For example, fluorocarbon is a very strong and invisible material that is often used for leader lines when fishing for wary fish, such as trout or bass. Wire is a very strong and durable material that is often used for leader lines when fishing for fish with sharp teeth, such as pike or muskie.

There are many different ways to tie on a leader line. One of the most common methods is the clinch knot. To tie a clinch knot, follow these steps:

1. Pass the end of the leader line through the eye of the lure or bait.
2. Wrap the leader line around the main line five times.
3. Pass the end of the leader line back through the loop that you created in step 2.
4. Wet the knot and pull it tight.

Another common method for tying on a leader line is the uni knot. To tie a uni knot, follow these steps:

1. Pass the end of the leader line through the eye of the lure or bait.
2. Wrap the leader line around the main line three times.
3. Pass the end of the leader line through the loop that you created in step 2.
4. Pass the end of the leader line through the loop that you created in step 3.
5. Wet the knot and pull it tight.