I hate wire leaders, but feel I need something for my bigger Kietech swim baits with the flashy hook.

 

What do others use to keep pike from snatching bass baits while keeping the action of the bait?

Steel leaders. They don't affect the action.

Heavy mono, mostly Ande and BG.

I get there is no substitute for just getting on the graph on the water.  But would be nice to make an educated guess when pre-planning to narrow down starting spots

I use Maxima Chameleon Leader Line ..... I am dealing with Pickerel though.

Heavy flouro leader. 

I've caught dozens of pickerel and never had one bite my line and I only use 12 lb fluorocarbon. 

Get out the check book and pay the piper. Steel leaders reduce bites it sucks but if a pike gets your bait right there nothing you can do. I know @A-Jay has some slick leader material he uses. I've lost 2 spinner baits and 2 tungsten punch rigs so far this season.

You can use a tie-able leader, like Cortland Toothy Critter, and not lose bites.  20# size works well for me.

 

 

8 hours ago, sully420 said:

Get out the check book and pay the piper. Steel leaders reduce bites it sucks but if a pike gets your bait right there nothing you can do. I know @A-Jay has some slick leader material he uses. I've lost 2 spinner baits and 2 tungsten punch rigs so far this season.

A-Jay