Running ledger
BeginnerAlso called Running leger, Free-running lead
The lead slides on the line so a shy fish does not feel the weight. Simple and sensitive close in.
Let a fish pick up a bait without moving the lead.
A run-ring or sliding boom, a bead, a swivel, a hook length. No clip, no boom that must stand up. The only job is stopping the lead sliding onto the hook.
Diagram
When to use
Close range when a shy fish — flounder, a harbour mullet, a conger against a wall — should not feel a 4 oz lead. Sensitive, simple.
Flounder in a creek, conger against a wall, any shy bite close in.
Ground and marks
Harbour, Estuary, Pier, Beach. Ground: mud, sand, mixed.
Close range when a shy fish — flounder, a harbour mullet, a conger against a wall — should not feel a 4 oz lead. Sensitive, simple.
A long-range punch in a wind. The lead can slide down onto the hook if you skip the bead. Poor when you need the bait pinned in a dumping surf.
Creeks and harbours often fish a running tide, not slack high. A wall drop can work at slack if the fish are at your feet.
Marks: Harbour, Estuary, Pier, Beach. Ground: mud, sand, mixed.
Lead on a run-ring or sliding boom, then a bead, then a swivel, then the hook length. Cast, tighten gently, watch the tip. Do not wind down so hard the running lead cannot run.
Hooks 6–4/0 depending on the fish. Lead: A running bomb, 2–6 oz.
Mainline to a sliding boom or run-ring. Buffer bead. Rolling swivel. Hook length 18–36 in, 15–40 lb depending on the fish. Running bomb 2–6 oz.
How to tie it
- 01Lead on a run-ring or a sliding boom, then a bead, then a swivel, then the hook length.
- 02Cast, tighten gently, watch the tip.