North 40 Fly Shop eMagazine December 2016 | Page 32

Leader/Tippet

There are several different approaches you can take
to deceive the fish nicknamed “Leader Shredder.”
My favorite leader is 4.5 ft. of 60 lb. monofilament
followed by 3 ft. 40 lb. of fluorocarbon. I like to use
fluorocarbon instead of steel leader, because it is
virtually invisible to the fish. I have always heard
that Pike are not leader shy, but on sunny blue bird
days, using fluorocarbon instead of steel can make
all the difference. Having said that, I have caught
many pike on steel, and I know most fisherman use
steel whether fishing with flies or gear. Rio makes
an excellent pre-made Pike/Musky leader that is
7.5 ft., and is available in 15-45 lb. wire (knotable
bronze or snap on clip).
Northern Pike are greatly underrated, and it doesn’t
help your case much to become an addict. We have
several great lakes in Northern Idaho/Montana that
hold big pike. Stop by any North 40 Fly Shop for a
little guidance on where you should go.

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