Steelhead virgin

[gettheskunkoff]

I've been steelhead fishing a couple of time without a great deal of success. I read that the size of the leader is important and was curious what size and length of leader are you steelhead junkies using?
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[Belasko]

As a general rule I use 10-12# line, sometimes even 15# for leader. Usually when I cut a length I will hold the spool next to my face and pull the line out to the length of my other arm. It usually comes out about 2 1/2 feet after tying on and clipping tag ends. I have also had success with leaders as short as 1 foot though. It basically depends on various factors. How far off the bottom are the fish, how clear is the water, etc. I just find for me around 2 ft works best.
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[SteelieNut]

Belasko is right in my opinion. It does depend on the river you are fishing, as far as the Salmon goes 10# is my prefered size. I used 8# a few years ago when it was low and clear and broke off a few fish, not good when you finally hook a fish of a thousand casts. 10# is always going to be just fine on the Salmon and I have never had a break-off with it that wasn't my fault. I am also quite partial to Maxima Ultragreen, it's tough stuff. As far as leader length, I'm with Belasko, 2 feet is all around a good size.
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