Pike Fishing - Leader or no Leader?

[bullseye]

This goes against conventional theory, but an experienced native Quebec pike fisherman that I go out fishing with refuses to use any type leader (Steel, Floro, Titanium). He swears by heavy big game mono or braid tied directly to the lure. He claims he has had as many leaders fail on big pike as he has had bite offs. He says if you keep steady tension, keep them underwater and let them tire themselves out you have just as good luck and get more hits. He usually out fishes me, but most people do.

Any thoughts on this??

[lifeisfun]

I guess he doesn't care if the fish will bit it off and die ...
No reason not to use fluorocarbon leader (80lb + for large pike).

[Carmine13]

he should try a different knot if the leadresr are failing. and i use florocarbon line all the time so my line is my leader

[wolfe]

When I'm specifically targeting pike, I'll use a leader. I don't think it's a responsible strategy to "tire the fish out", at least if you're planning on successfully releasing them, just to avoid using a leader. My opinion...

W.

[Fishing 24/7]

like wolfe says dont tire out a fish if you dont entend to eat it.

using steel leaders MAY penetrate the pikes fresh therfor leaving a scar that can later on infect and casue him to die.

Thicker leaders suck as Fluoro will NOT penetate the pikes skin .

if the leaders are failling he seriously needs to start looking for better leaders.

if hes going for BIG pike just use musky leaders??

putting the proper leaders will ensure the survival of the pikes and will get you more pike in the boat!

[Tip-up]

I use 17-20lb Tri Big Game as a leader for pike in the winter time, NEVER had a single break-off using it and found my catch rate on tip-ups increased quite a bit. It's funny to watch peoples faces when the same flag is poppin' all day in an area with 10-20 other tip-ups that have not had a any movement It's happened more than once and have always figured its because of the mono.

In the spring time I like using locally made musky leaders(Fluoro) only because I find it helps to get the most action out of my spoon.

[lifeisfun]

What size of pike are you catching ?

[Yannick Loranger]

40lbs fluoro does a great job for me. No break-offs on pike/muskie up to 12lbs. And I always use a leader when I'm targeting pike, except if it really hinders the action of the lure like with a Pop'r for example.

Tight lines,
Yannick

[Lonnie]

I agree with the majority on this thread - fishing pike without a leader is irresponsible. I use 80 lb. I have been bitten off with 60 lb at least twice, but the weight of leader depends on your style of fishing. If you are putting lots of pressure on the fish. (i.e. horsing it in with baitcasting tackle) - you will be applying more cutting force on the line than you will be if you're fishing panfish gear or hand-lining.
cheers,
LK