Knots and leaders · 2 min read
Change the leader before the bite
Change the leader before the bite. Keep the focus on a leader you already doubt, and keep the water in sight while you do it.
Do it in order
Work from the near bank. Replace the leader while the water is quiet. Then look up and see whether the plan still fits the place you are standing.
The usual miss
People lose time to a doubtful leader saved for the moment a fish is on. Retie, shorten, or reset. Do not negotiate with a setup you already doubt.
Leave only when the leader you cast is one you would trust. Write nothing down unless that check failed.
This belongs with knots and leaders because the decision happens before you are committed to the cast.
A bank note, not a forecast or a rule sheet. Check the local regulations before you fish.