I'm getting ready for a two week bass fishing trip in extreme Downiest Maine. I've spooled both of my Daiwa Certate LT reels with Seaguar Tatsu. 8# with a 12# Seaguar Blue leader on the 3000-CXH and 10# Tatsu on the 4000-CXH. I'm considering not using a leader on this one due to the Tatsu being such a great line... and only 2# difference between it and the line.  I have 12# Blue and 12# Gold leader available. Anyone tried using it bare? If so what was the result?

Dont make your leader a heavier weight than your mainline ... unless for toothy critter purposes. 

 

Fish the Tatsu straight no leader on both reels. 

11 minutes ago, garroyo130 said:

Fish the Tatsu straight no leader on both reels. 

 

No leaders.......

Why would you want to use a leader? What’s the benefit to it?

The only reason I can think of for using a leader on FC is to save using up the main line when cutting off lures.  Yes, as mentioned, a leader should not be stronger than the main line.  You'd like it to break at the lure, not in the main line.

 

I won't use a leader when using braid for the mainline. I cant see any reason for using a leader with FC lines.

4 hours ago, waymont said:

Why would you want to use a leader? What’s the benefit to it?

This.

 

What problem are you attempting to address with the leader?  I'm not experienced fishing for toothy muskies and pike, but I don't envision 12 lb leaders providing any real assistance to prevent being bitten off.

Tatsu is great just by itself.  No need for leader.  

 

Just on a side note, I have used Tatsu as leader material with braid.   

OK, I’ll go with just the Tatsu. The lake I’ll be fishing has some Pickerel, but I guess the leader wouldn’t help that much.

Thanks everyone for the answer I was hoping for.

3 hours ago, Scott F said:

I won't use a leader when using braid for the mainline. I cant see any reason for using a leader with FC lines.

 

Amen