The use of steel leaders for pike-proof fishing is still popular today. 1×7, 7×7, Titan.........it's nice and good that there are so many different pike-proof materials. But what are the differences, advantages and areas of application of each leader material?
1×7 steel leader - the inexpensive and uncomplicated option
Basics of steel leaders
1×7 steel leader
Simply "twizzled" - You can see the fibers very well at the unraveled end
7×7 steel leader
The 7×7 has the same diameter as the 1×7 but a higher load capacity. This is because 49 individual steel phasers are first braided into 7 strands and then into a main leader strand. The force that acts on the braid when pulled is distributed and makes the construction very resistant. Due to the braiding of 49 individual phasers, the leader remains supple and soft and is less (pun intended) bendy than the 1×7. In addition, it offers a small diameter with a high load-bearing capacity, especially for perch anglers, which does not impair the bait run with small rubber fish or plugs and, as a steel tip, can withstand the pike if one should bite. Twizzling is not so easy due to the low memory effect, as it can unravel more easily. However, crimping sleeves can help here.
The 7×7 leader is significantly more expensive than the 1×7, but also has its advantages in terms of suppleness and durability.
Despite the macro, the individual fibers are not so easy to recognize. The 7 coarse fibers are divided into 7 finer fibers each
Titanium leader
Last but not least, the most expensive material. Titanium is the most resistant material of the three in terms of its diameter/load capacity ratio. It is extremely durable and, unlike 1×7 and 7×7, there is no need to worry about kinks. Working with crimp sleeves is a little tricky with this unyielding material, but it is doable. Even after many attacks, injuries and impairment of the bait run are ruled out.
In the past it was the spin rod, today it's titanium! The stiff material offers ideal conditions for fishing with jerkbaits and wobblers.
The sweeping movements of hardbaits under water, in conjunction with soft leader material, usually mean that the lures become entangled and no longer produce bites. But not so with titanium. Especially on days when a lot of pike bites can be expected, it offers constant and worry-free fishing thanks to its durability.
Whether single strand or 1×7 - the titanium leader is the most resistant of the materials.
Now it's your turn!
Try it out for yourself. Over time, every angler will find their preferred material, we're sure of it!
