64 SCIENCE OF FISHING. 



between knots, use the light, inferior ends. As the strength 

 of a chain is gauged by the strength of its weakest link, so 

 also a leader is just as strong as its weakest spot; and 

 of course there should be no weak spots. It should be 

 round and transparent, of equal thickness throughout, and 

 without kinks, frayed or split spots or blemishes of any kind. 



For salmon the heaviest nine-foot single leaders should 

 be used. For bass the leader should be three or six feet, 

 heavy single, or light twisted double gut. An amateur needs 

 a stronger leader than an expert. 



Gut leaders are sometimes stained to a bluish or yel- 

 lowish color, but it is doubtful whether this makes them any 

 better or less conspicuous and many anglers believe that the 

 coloring weakens the gut. 



Wire leaders are made for trolling and sea fishing. 

 They are usually made of steel wire, tinned and have swivels 

 on the ends. Piano wire is sometimes used, also specially 

 tempered steel, and phosphor bronze. One end should be 

 fitted with a coupler for attaching the hook or bait. They 

 are made in various lengths from six inches up to five feet. 

 Twisted wire is also used for this purpose. 



When going fishing the gut leaders should be carried in 

 a small case or leader box between moist felt pads. This 

 softens the leader and strengthens it. Never use a dry gut 

 leader for fishing; soften it before you commence to fish. 



