Fishing leaders: when to use steel wire or fluorocarbon.

A buying guide from Fishing Lures Co. Specs come from each product listing. Updated October 23, 2026.

A leader is a short length of line between your main line and the lure. It protects the main line from teeth and abrasion, or hides it from fish. Steel wire resists bites; fluorocarbon is harder to see. We sell a 20-pack of steel leaders and a fluorocarbon-coated line.

When do I need a steel leader?

When you fish for species with sharp teeth, such as pike. A steel leader will not cut through the way monofilament can.

What do our steel leaders list?

Twenty steel wire leaders with swivels in 15, 20, 24 or 30 cm, in black or green. Longer leaders give more room between the lure and the main line.

When is fluorocarbon better?

When fish are line-shy and the water is clear. Our fluorocarbon-coated line is a 100 m sinking line in 0.2 to 0.5 mm diameters.

How do I attach a leader?

Tie the main line to the leader's swivel with a knot such as the Palomar or an improved clinch, then attach the lure to the other end. See our knots guide.

Compare what we sell

Leaders and line we sell, from each listing
ProductWhat the listing saysIn the boxFrom
Steel wire fishing leaders with swivel, 20 packPer pack: 20Lengths: 15 to 30 cmColours: Black, greenSteel leaders: 20$10.99
Fluorocarbon-coated fishing line, 100 mLength: 100 mDiameters: 0.2 to 0.5 mmType: SinkingSpool of line: 1$9.99
Braided fishing line, 4 strand PE, 300 mLength: 300 m (also 100 m)Strands: 4Sizes: 0.4 to 4.0Spool of braided line: 1$9.99
Monofilament fishing line, nylon, 100 mLength: 100 mMaterial: NylonSizes: 0.8 to 4Spool of line: 1$9.99

Questions people ask

Does a steel leader scare fish?

It can, in clear water, which is why some anglers choose fluorocarbon where bites are not a concern.

What length leader should I use?

Ours range from 15 to 30 cm. Choose by how much room you want between the lure and the main line.

Can I use braid for a leader?

Braid is usually the main line; many anglers add a mono or fluorocarbon leader.

The products in this guide

Shop all lures