Materials
materials used for tapered leaders
In this instance I am using Drennan Double strength in 6lb,4lb and 2.8lb,(It is important to use the same brand and breed throughout as diameters may differ) and a 2 ft section to the braided loop of Maxima Ultra green 8lb.this is a matter of preference as I like the stretch and suppleness of the 2.8lb Drennan.Others may prefer flourocarbon/co-polymer and if so grinner or double grinner knots may have to be used.The finished leader will be about 9ft excluding the Maxima section at the braided loop.This suits my river set up but should be adapted to anything up to 20ft and increased breaking strains for loch fishing.I like to seal the knots with a 2 part superglue system which is waterproof, normal superglue will do if it is waterproof.I find “Knotsure” far to syrupy and leaves a blob on the Knot which is both unsightly and makes the leader less aerodynamic When I say seal with glue i mean minuscule amounts The two part system is ideal as it is watery and the activator sets it(you dont end up with a blob five times the size of the knot)
Insert 2ft of 8lb mono through braid with a tucked blood Knot,wet knot pull and seal with glue.
Reducing the number of turns to 5 and applying glue makes for a neater join
On opposite end form 5 turn loop wet, pull and seal with glue.(This section remains on line permanently)
Take a 4ft section of 2.8lb a 2.5ft section of 4lb and a 2.5ft section of 6lb and join together using 5 turn double blood knots,wet pull and seal
If a dropper is required on the 2.8 lb section make a smple 5 turn loop knot,wet ,pull and seal(remember to increase the tip 2.8lb section to allow for dropper length).
I am keen on long droppers about 8 inches but its a personal thing
Store the leader on a rig.They can be tensioned and this saves the fine mono being kinked on a cast card,fine tippet keeps its memory.Make a few up in the comfort of your home for a speedy leader change.Attach leader to Maxima section with a simple loop to loop connection.Do not store in bright sunlight as the leader will become brittle and easily snap.
Remember to regularly degrease the leader as fine mono has difficulty breaking the surface tension and is a real give-away when fishing “dry”(or you would be as well using the string in the knot demo)
