Shock Leader

It’s common for a shock leader to be used when surf fishing. Below is an explanation of the concept and why it is used.

What is a shock leader?

A shock leader is a stronger piece of line that is attached to the end of the line coming from the reel. It is attached to the end so that during a cast this stronger section of line is receiving the force of the cast and not the smaller line on the reel.

Why should a shock leader be used?

Safety is the main reason to use a shock leader. While using a shock leader it is less likely that the line will break during a powerful cast possibly causing unintended damage or injuring someone. This also prevents loss of your surf rigs and expensive surf weights. Another benefit is that since the shock leader is tied between your main line and your rig it will provide more abrasion resistance if this section of line rubs bottom, sandbars, etc.

What strength line should be used?

The strength of the shock leader is usually determined from the size of the weight that is being cast. It is common to choose line that will give 10 lbs of line breaking strength for each ounce of your surf weight. As and example if you use 4 oz weights use 40 lb line for shock leader. If you use 6 oz weights then use 60 lb line for shock leader.

How long should the shock leader be made?

The shock leader should be long enough to wrap around the reel spool five times, thread out the rod guides, and then back to the reel.

How do I join the shock leader to the main line on my reel?

The shock leader should be connected to the main line with a knot that will pass through the rod guides well. Your favorite line to line knot may work fine just keep in mind that you may be connecting 60 lb shock leader to main line that will likely be considerably smaller. For surf fisherman that use monofilament line on their reels that could mean connecting 40 – 60 lb shock leader to 15 – 17 lb monofilament. One connection that works well is an Overhand knot to a Uni Knot. This is done by using the shock leader to tie an Overhand Knot around the smaller main line and then using the end of the main line to tie a Uni Knot around the shock leader. The two knots are tightened and pulled tightly against one another forming a secure connection. If using smaller weights and smaller shock leader the very popular Uni Knot to Uni Knot connection may work great.

Good luck and safe fishing!