jdub wrote:
let me ask a dumb question; what determines leader length?-p-
Not to be a smart ass, but I would answer: The fish.
Was a time that I would not fish a leader longer than the rod for fear of breaking off in the guides if he took that last run at the net. Better connections and more care tying knots has eliminated that worry.
Size of line and weight of rod are similar in my thinking. I use furled leaders, suited to the weight of line. These lengths are fixed by the manufacturers and I adjust the fishing length with added tippet.
Size of fly is the deciding factor for me. This will determine the tippet size and length.
My plan is to go as light and as long as possible to turn over that fly, and as short and heavy as I can get away with it at the same time.
My leader, tippet combos vary from 9' to 14' for trout. I fish with guys that use 4' straight mono from the fly line and do well also. Depends on the day and conditions.