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I used to use 18" steel leaders then I started making them shorter and shorter. Now they are down to about 6". Neptune and Hooker have now convinced me to go back to 18" again.
I have noticed a lot of people use steel leader but I have found a way better option. Instead of using clunky steel leaders that effect how your bait can move and are pretty visible go to walmart and get some tiger tail. Tiger tail is nylon covered braided steel. Little girls use it for making bead necklaces. (insert joke here) Either way, it is way lighter and less visible and a pike can't chew through it on a bet. I use it for flyfishing for pike because it is easier to case. Just take off the desired length...any amount because it is $2.99 for 20 yards and then twist it around itself and hit it quickly with a lighter. I have never once had it break and I have pulled in pike 10-15lbs without ever having broken one off. Since it is so cheap you don't worry about recovering the end the pike swallowed. Just cut it off an start over. Good luck.