Thought the magic number was 20-now I’ve had my 20lb test cut off twice. Would like to use a leader for pike and walleyes-also fish some clear lakes so would like to use flouro.
Thanks

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January 27, 2019 at 4:44 pm
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IDO » Forums » Fishing Forums » Ice Fishing Forum » What # test leader flouro for pike?
I’ve had the same issue that you are describing and have been trying some light wire. This 19 strand is pretty easy to work with and is fairly kink resistant. I’m not sure if the walleyes will shy away from it but going to heavier floro may be more difficult than using thin wire.
I’ve been using the coated 17 and 11lb with no complaints and if you’re gentle with it you may be able to get by with the 6lb to favor the eyes. Just keep an eye on it like you would floro and replace as needed.
https://afwfishing.com/afw_products/Surflon_Micro_Ultra_Leader_Wire_Nylon_Coated_1x19.asp
I use 40lb and 60lb for my quick strike rigs. 40 is good but 60 is better.
I wouldn’t use 20 myself.
I use 40lb and 60lb for my quick strike rigs. 40 is good but 60 is better.
I wouldn’t use 20 myself.
I tend to use 60 and 80# when targeting pike. I also wouldn’t use 20.
Thought the magic number was 20-now I’ve had my 20lb test cut off twice. Would like to use a leader for pike and walleyes-also fish some clear lakes so would like to use flouro.
Thanks
Are you using actual leader material? (not just line)
20lb Blue Label holds up pretty well for walleyes and light pike fishing.
You need to check it for wear after every pike though.
If you’re using leader material already and having problems, I’d up it to 30lb for multi-species fishing.
I get by with 20-25lb just fine though.
If I was going strictly after big pike, I’d definitely up the poundage to the 40-80lb range
For pike a steel leader is your best bet. I’ve tried many braids with limited success. Never been bit off with a steel leader.
B-man-why is 20lb ‘leader materiel’ better than 100% flouro regular line? And why?
B-man-why is 20lb ‘leader materiel’ better than 100% flouro regular line? And why?
The short answer is that it’s a lot tougher
It’s made differently, and is a lot “harder.” You’ll see the difference when you tie your first knot and catch your first pike.
I’m not a chemist for Seaguar, but I promise it will be leaps and bounds above the line you are currently using.
Like I said originally though, 20-25lb Blue Label is a nice compromise when you’re after walleyes but still want to land pike. It’s not bullet proof, but I’ve probably landed 40 northerns this year without one break off. I’ll wager that even 10lb Blue Label will hold up as well as the current 20lb you’re using.
Just check for bad abrasion and re-tie if necessary.
If you’re after pike and pike alone, step up the game and go with 40-80lb Blue Label or go with 7-strand. That stuff will last far longer without having to be re-tied. FYI, once you get to the 50lb+ level, crimps are a lot easier than knots.
I’ve used 20 lb Seaguar Leader material when going double duty for eyes and pike. But if I suspect it’s a pike I play it easy and let it run as needed. Never cut off. If going just for pike I’d go with 40. If targeting big fish on LOTW or something I’d use 60 or 80. Or steel… I’ve never found them to be terribly line shy.
Tucker
Great tips, thanks-will be ordering some Blur Label today (Labatts right?)
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