At what lb test do wire leaders affect lure action?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

When it comes to fishing, the choice of a **wire leader** can be crucial, especially in scenarios where you're targeting toothy critters like pike or musky. The lb (pound) test of a wire leader is a measure of its breaking strength. However, higher-strength leaders can sometimes negatively impact the **action** of your lure, making it less appealing to fish.

### Understanding Wire Leaders
Wire leaders come in various strengths, commonly ranging from 10 lb to over 100 lb tests. The higher the lb test, the thicker and stiffer the wire will be. This is great for avoiding bite-offs but can dampen the lively action of certain lures, especially those that rely on subtle movements, like crankbaits and swimbaits.

**Impact on Lure Action:**
- **20-30 lb Test**: Generally, lighter wire leaders (20-30 lb) are less likely to affect the action of smaller lures. They are flexible enough to allow most lures to perform naturally.
- **40-60 lb Test**: At this range, you might start noticing a slight alteration in the lure action. Lures that require a lot of finesse may not swim as designed.
- **70+ lb Test**: Leaders above this threshold can significantly impact action, especially for smaller or more action-dependent lures. These leaders are typically used in situations where the risk of losing a fish to a bite-off outweighs the need for perfect lure presentation.

#### Practical Tip:
If you find that heavier wire leaders are affecting your lure's action, consider using a **loop knot** to attach your lure. This can give the lure more freedom to move naturally. [Learn how to tie a non-slip loop knot here!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yT5kC35LVIk)

### Product Recommendations
For those looking to explore wire leaders with different lb tests, here are some options:
- [30Pcs Fishing Wire Leaders, 100LB 19Inch Stainless Steel](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G2TMWW1?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) 
- [Berkley® Steelon™ Wire-Wound Leaders, Black, 12"](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00015HAE8?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

### Conclusion:
In conclusion, while wire leaders are essential for certain types of fishing, it's crucial to balance the leader strength with the desired lure action. By selecting the right lb test and employing techniques like loop knots, you can maintain effective lure action while protecting against bite-offs. Keep experimenting, and remember, fishing is as much about learning as it is about catching! Happy fishing! 🎣

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