Shock Leaders

surf fishing

One of the most important items used while surf fishing is a shock leader. A shock leader is a heavier piece of line tied on to the main line. It is mainly used in surf fishing. This prevents your line from snapping when casting out into the surf. When surf fishing you should use a heavy sinker and sometimes heavy bait. When you throw out long hard casts, your line can easily break without the use of a shock leader.

The general rule of thumb for length is that the leader needs to wrap around your reel about five times. When choosing strength, you want to use a shock leader that is 10 pounds of test for every ounce of your sinker. For example, if you are using a 4oz lead, then your shock leader should be 40-pound test. Many anglers use an Albright knot when attaching the main line to the shock leader. Others will use a blood knot as well.

It is up to you to decide how you want to attach them, but be sure you use a shock leader when surf fishing. There is nothing worse or more dangerous than watching your rig fly off into the ocean when you cast out. A 4oz leader could hurt someone if they happen to be in the way of your flying rig.

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