Musky Leaders/Lenght/Strenght

[Icet]

Having a problem with line twist and tying some of these lines. I use 6' leaders and quality snaps/swivels ect. My problems seems to be tying the pound test I use - too much knot. In order to get the weight right I am using those lenghts. What do y'all use??

[Gone Fishing]

I use 6 ft lengths also of 60 lb. Big Game low vis green mono and tie a Palomar knot. Seems to work OK for me!

[Downrod]

I also use 60# test. I tie a really simple knot that I do not know the name of ( a fellow fisherman showed me) The knot is stronger than the line and you can barely see it. I can't tell you how to tie it, I would have to show you.

[PencilPlugger]

I use whatever Rocketman tells me too...
http://www.muskie-lures.com/rocketman/index4.htm

[kbkrause]

When I went out with jpollman on opening day of muskie season, Esox showed us how to use metal collars to secure the line. All he did was put the line through the collar and crimp the collar with crimpers. This kept the connection pretty small and smooth. I'm sure Esox can give you any details.

[ESOX]

I have been using 50# hard mono and crimp sleeves. I did destructive testing on a number of these connections and the average breaking point was in the mid- high 40# range. I can't recall the exact brand names of what I use, I'll check tonight. I'm a rookie at trolling compared to Gone Fishing and Downrod what they say is certainly the time(and HAWG) proven method. I do like the smooth connection, it doesn't seem to pick up nearly as many weeds, especially at the terminal end.

[Icet]

My set up is pretty simple. I use two to four ounces at the line, hook up to the leader and then lure. I still get line twist and I believe it is the knot. Has anyone tried the super lines for a leader. Might be easier to tie on - I'm thinking.

Downrod: is it a blood knot. I used to use that in FL but I did not have the two swivels and snaps to deal with. I use 30# test for my main line. Yet to have a fish break off but this line twisting is bugging me.

[Downrod]

I use a good ball bearing snap swivel on both sides of the sinker and a large snap at the lure. Never had line twist. I'm stumped.
30# test is fine for the main line. I go a bit heavier, I use 40#.
Its not that I need it to fight the fish, its more the wear and tear on the line from pulling multiple set ups off of planer boards. I love my lures too much to lose them to a microscopic nick in the line.

[Icet]

Originally posted by Downrod
I use a good ball bearing snap swivel on both sides of the sinker and a large snap at the lure. Never had line twist. I'm stumped.
30# test is fine for the main line. I go a bit heavier, I use 40#.
Its not that I need it to fight the fish, its more the wear and tear on the line from pulling multiple set ups off of planer boards. I love my lures too much to lose them to a microscopic nick in the line.

I may be on to something, is the weight connected to both snaps or is it to one only with it sort of hanging free while the leader is connected to the swivel of the main line. Lastly, I use heavy duty split rings on the lures. Sorry for all these dumb "how to" but I am trying to figure this out.

[Downrod]

If you are using cigar sinkers use a swivel at each eye. Your main line goes to one end and the swivel on the leader goes to the other. Do not let it hang free. If you are using ball sinkers put both swivels through the one eye and attach to each other. Your leader should have a snap on one end and a ball bearing swivel on the other. I'll bet that is your problem

[Icet]

Downrod: Thanks, I will try it. Very much appreciate the input. New at this Musky fishing.

[steveJ]

I use dacron on my boat rods and hi vis green mono on the planer board rods. 80 # test leader material with a improved clinch not wrapped 4 times. the knot dose not pick up weeds. i use a bead chain swivel dropping down to a ball weight on one of the snap swivels that ataches to the leader. the beadchain and ball sinker collect all otf the weeds.

[Icet]

Originally posted by steveJ
I use dacron on my boat rods and hi vis green mono on the planer board rods. 80 # test leader material with a improved clinch not wrapped 4 times. the knot dose not pick up weeds. i use a bead chain swivel dropping down to a ball weight on one of the snap swivels that ataches to the leader. the beadchain and ball sinker collect all otf the weeds.

Thanks Steve and all. I fixed the problem Saturday - one too many snap swivels. I will try Steve's as I am spending too much time cleaning off the weeds.