There isn't really a standard, it's whatever works best for you. If you can catch as many fish as your friend using 20lb leader then obviously the fish aren't being spooked by your leader. Personally I believe leader test really depends on fishing conditions and species targeted. Coho are the pickiest fish, but if you're fishing fairly turbid conditions you can go up in leader strength without spooking fish. You're less likely to have fish break off too. If you're fishing low clear waters on a sunny day then small presentations with light leader. Say a #4 hook using 4-6 pound test leader. Myself, the range in leader is anywhere from 4 (don't use it too often, but have done so in the past) up to about 15 lbs (fraser for sockeye and springs) and I use Maxima ultra green. Some people swear by the fluorocarbon stuff but it's kind of expensive. To keep the line from breaking, you have to play the fish properly. That's why you spent money on a decent rod and reel. The rod will act as a shock absorber between you and the fish so that there is some give and prevents the line from just snapping. The reel's drag system (hopefully smooth) allows line to be played out if the fish pulls harder than what your "shock absorber" can stand. And yes, you will lose fish to snapped leaders due to things like abrasion due to rubbing on rocks, salmon teeth, poorly tied knots etc. That's why it's really important to check both your leader and mainline for abrasion nicks periodically. There is no typical length of time to catch a fish. I remember fishing the Vedder for red springs last year. The four reds I caught there lasst season were all docile and very accomodating. Didn't have to move more than a few feet to the shore to beach them. Couple of small runs, and then beached nicely. My buddy who was fishing the same spot had fish that took him way up and then way down and then up again...you get the idea. Don't force the fish, just land them when THE FISH are ready NOT when you are.
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Topic: Leader debate (Read 6620 times)