On 18 Sep, 16:20, "Tom Nakashima" wrote:
"Mike" wrote in message


Thanks for clearing that up.
Yes, I stretch enough to take out the coils when casting, especially
when putting on new leaders and tippets.
I've seen those leather leader strengtheners, but never tried one, I've
just been using my hands to somewhat heat the leader material as I pull, at
least it's enough to take out some of the memory.

oh btw: I do enjoy your contributions to the group on fly-fishing....
-tom

Quite a few people use the leader straighteners, and they will in fact
work on the heavier nylon of butts etc, but if you use them on thin
points or tippets, thy will invariably damage the line. If you can
manage to straighten your leaders simply by pulling them through your
fingers, then this is the best way to go. It will usually remove curls
etc, if done properly, but ti wont remove kinks etc.

Just stretching the line, as some people seem to think, has no effect,
as the memory is not removed, heat is required to remove it. This
also applies to PVC fly lines. Stretching them as is often advised,
will not remove the memory, and will often only cause cracks in the
coating, and cause it to de-adhere form the non flexible core. To
remove the memory, put the line in very warm water, and then hold it
taut, ( but NOT overstretched) . This will make it perfectly straight
again, and it will remain so when it cools.

oh btw: I do enjoy your contributions to the group on fly-fishing....

I much prefer them myself! But needs must when the devil ( or his
associates!) drives.

TL
MC