How to Tie Lead Core Fishing Line

Lead-core fishing line has become a mainstay for salmon and walleye anglers who troll vast expanses looking for fish. Since lead-core line is already weighted, it does not need any additional weights or divers to get down to the fish, making it a stealthy approach. Tying a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader to the end of a lead-core line is not too difficult; read on for the proper method of tying a lead-core fishing line.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Tying the Lead Core

Things You’ll Need:

Lead-core fishing line
Monofilament line

Step 1

Rub the end of the lead-core line in order to loosen the outer shell of the line. This outer shell is usually made from Dacron or some other braided line that covers the lead core.

Step 2

Pull back the braided line and break off several inches of the lead. This will leave a soft, flexible line that is easy to tie.

Step 3

Cut the end of the braided line so it is straight and there are no strands of line hanging freely. This is important as a frayed end of the line will weaken and could break during a battle with a large fish.

Step 4

Tie two overhand knots in the lead-core line above the empty shell of braided line. Do not tighten the knots; rather, keep them loose for the next step.

Step 5

Insert the monofilament leader into the braided shell or sheath until the monofilament leader touches the lead core. Position the two overhand knots over the monofilament leader that is inside the sheath and tighten the knots firmly. This strong connection will keep the monofilament leader in place.

Tips & Warnings

When faced with clear water condtitions, try using a fluorocarbon leader is this is less visable to the fish. Also, add a drop of super glue to each of the overhand knots for extra insurance.

Do not try to tie a normal clinch knot with lead-core line as it will slip and come undone.

Resources

Precision Trolling

Article Written By Brian M. Kelly

Brian M. Kelly has been freelance writing since 2003. His work has been published in respected outdoor magazines such as Outdoor Life, Great Lakes Angler and Salmon Trout Steelheader. He holds an associate's degree in automated machine design from Macomb College.

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