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Shockleader vs. Level line casting (7 posts / 998 views)
aarrgghhlnln aarrgghhlnln
Posts: 89
Post #1 27 May 2026 13:10
0
I'm new to distance casting & I keep reading up on using a shockleader & casting with mono straight through.

How much difference does it make using say 12lb mono & a 50lb braid shockleader vs. casting with a heavier 18lb mono all the way through?
Are there significant gains using a shockleader with a smaller diameter line?

yonny yonny
Posts: 7,934
Post #2 27 May 2026 14:43
0
In reply to Post #1
Yes mate, huge difference imo.
scaley&dark
Posts: 5,563
Post #3 27 May 2026 17:02
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In reply to Post #1
12lb mono & 50lb braid Shockleader will for sure cast further, but does your water allow leaders or even braid.

Some 'level lines' say 0.35 to 0.40/0.43mm of the same diameter can behave incredibly different, some behave at first on the spool then become more twisted or wirey, other are more supple and cast better, but are less abrasion resistant. Different people say different things about the same line.

You just have to experiment, within the rules what is allowed on your given water/s for your type of fishing to achieve what you need.

Rarebit Rarebit
Posts: 228
Post #4 27 May 2026 17:22
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In reply to Post #1
The main differences are the size of the lip left on the spool as the line is leaving and the weight of the line it's self. Without a shock leader you also lose power in the cast when the line stretches.

I'm no casting expert..so take that with a pinch of salt..
woody71
Posts: 3,098
Post #5 27 May 2026 22:09
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In reply to Post #1
Thinner line and a leader is capable of casting a lot further than thicker line straight through and is a good method some venues

With regards to fish safety I wouldn't fish with lighter line and leader on say a weedy venue, snaggy or one with severe bars which could risk cut offs. Sorry if your already aware of of such issues.
aarrgghhlnln aarrgghhlnln
Posts: 89
Post #6 29 May 2026 09:16
0
Thanks for the answers all that helps a lot
Smudge79 Smudge79
Posts: 2,737
Post #7 29 May 2026 16:59
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The tapered mono lines are worth a look
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