What is a VersiLeader?
IMAGE: RIO Products
Long Story Short
Simply put, the Trout VersiLeader, from RIO Products, is the best way to convert a floating fly line to a sinking line in seconds. With a welded loop crafted into the butt end, you can attach VersiLeaders to the fly line’s welded loop the same way you would a typical mono or fluoro leader.
If you don’t have the cash to drop on a new sinking line, pick up a few VersiLeaders in different sizes. Getting depth with a floating line will no longer be an issue!
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When to Use a VersiLeader
Fishing Light Streamers
When it comes to getting depth with those small, light streamers, you don’t have to use a VersiLeader. A poly leader and some well-secured split shot can accomplish the same goal. But when it comes to picking apart pocket water or banging the bottom of especially deep rivers, an arsenal of VersiLeaders can help you get the streamer game really dialed in.
NOTE: Would not suggest using the 12’ VersiLeader when trying to turn over any streamer with mass that gets heavier when wet. It gets fairly difficult to cast, even with a super short section of tippet.
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Getting Depth on the Swing
DISCLAIMER: Not 100% sure if the spey crowd uses VersiLeaders or not… Likely not, considering the wide variety of spey heads that can be used instead.
But let’s say you forget the long boy back at the house and all you have is your 9’ 5wt. with which to swing flies. This is where the VersiLeaders come into play. Choose the appropriate sink rate for the water you’re fishing and getting that soft hackle in front of a hungry trout downstream is a little less of a challenge.
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Details
CONSTRUCTION: Tapered leader with a 12lb. nylon core coated in PVC
LENGTH: 7’ or 12’
SINK RATES (inches per second):
1.5 ips (clear loop)
3 ips (green loop)
4 ips (red loop)
5 ips (blue loop)
7 ips (black loop)
PRICE: $12.99 - $14.99
IMAGE: Weekender Media