I’ve covered how to use lead core line in another post here, but I wanted to post this information separately for the anglers who might be on the water and in a pinch to figure out how deep their line is traveling.
If you’ve tried buying lead core line, it’s not always easy figuring out what speeds and approximately how many colors can achieve the depths necessary to catch fish. Bookmark, favorite, save this page for future reference so you can refer to our lead core line depth chart next time you’re looking for precise data to reach the strike zone.
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – What to Know About Lead Core Line
Know that there are many variables that will slightly alter your depths using lead core line. The three main variables are: boat speed, lure size, and current. Generally, those factors can adjust actual depths than what we’re listing in our charts, but should not be so wildly different than what you’ll see on this page. Be confident that these charts will accurately reflect what you’re experiencing when on the water.
It’s also important to know that despite the wide range of line strengths available for each brand of lead core line, their total weight is approximately the same. So for example, if you were to buy Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core line in 12 pound test, the total weight would be roughly the same to the Advanced Lead Core line in 18 pound test. This has been shown true across each brand, so don’t assume stronger line = heavier line. That is not the case.
Finally, be aware that despite a few manufacturers selling traditional lead core and “micro” lead core, their performance in the water is essentially the same. The benefit to a “micro” lead core is expanding the anglers equipment options. The thinner line makes it easier through guides thus making it a more attractive option for smaller trolling reels. Some micro lines also advertise a “stronger” break strength, but are rated for similar pound test as their bigger counterparts. If you have smaller equipment that you’d like to use lead core with, consider buying a “micro” lead core line. Otherwise, traditional sized line works just as well.
All graphs are assuming no current, speeds between 1.5 – 2.5 mph, and using a 1 ounce lure.
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Tuf-Line Lead Core
- Department Name: Unisex-Adult
- Included Components: Fishing Line
You can buy Tuf-Line in spools of 100 and 200 yards. Line strength ranges from 12 lb to 45 lb test.
When trolling between 1.5 to 2.5 mph, you can expect Tuf-Line to reach depths of 6-6.5 ft per color.
Tuf-Line is affordable and strong and would be a great line to use trolling for trophies.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 6.25 | 12.5 | 18.75 | 25 | 31.25 | 37.5 | 43.75 | 50 | 56.25 | 62.5 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Tuf-Line MicroLead
- Achieving The Same Sink Rate As Your Regular Lead Core
- With The Innovative Spectra Braid Fiber Which Protects The Smaller Diameter Lead Core
- Power Fiber Braid You Will Notice The Strength And Durability
- Package Dimensions: 7.9" ( H ) x 7" ( L ) x 7" ( W )
Tuf-Line MicroLead indicates that its actual break strength is 3 times stronger than its regular sized counterpart.
They make this claim due to the materials used in the woven sheath surrounding the lead core. Instead of a Polyester multifilament yarn, MicroLead is protected by Spectra fiber braid.
Where the 15 lb test traditional lead core has a 19 lb break strength (according to Tuf-Line), the same 15 lb test MicroLead has a break strength of 49 lbs. But, with the smaller diameter, you can still expect the same depths. Trolling between 1.5 to 2.6 mph, the line should dive about 6.5 per color.
For smaller equipment and potentially stronger lead core, the Tuf-Line MicroLead is a good choice.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 6.25 | 12.5 | 18.75 | 25 | 31.25 | 37.5 | 43.75 | 50 | 56.25 | 62.5 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core
- Fishing Lure
- Great for tackle Box
- a Fishing Must for a Pro
What separates Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core from its competitors, even its own sister product, Performance Lead Core, is its high quality Dyneema and Gore fiber braided sheath.
Using the same combination of fibers as its highly popular braided line, the Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core dives deeper than any other brand of lead core with similar pound test. Independent tests have indicated this line dives around 8 feet per color, roughly 2 feet better than Tuf-Line! Smooth, thin constructions means this braided lead core can spool on small rods and reels just as easily as Tuf-Line MicroLead.
The most expensive lead core line offered, you really cannot beat the quality of the 832 series lead core line. Made in 12 and 18 lb test in two capacities: 100 and 200 yards.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 8 | 16 | 24 | 32 | 40 | 48 | 56 | 64 | 72 | 80 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Sufix Performance Lead Core
- Performance Lead Core is designed with a high density lead center for excellent sinking speed
- 12 Color sequence, 10 Yards per color.
Sufix’ Performance Lead Core is in many ways the same as Tuf-Line’s Lead Core line.
They are both constructed with a higher density lead core. They are both protected by a Polyester fiber sheath. And, they come in a multitude of sizes. Unlike Tuf-Line, however, Sufix only ranges from 12 lb to 36 lb test.
Considering its similarities and how popular the Sufix 832 Advanced Lead Core is, it’s no surprise that Sufix seemingly isn’t making this lead core any longer. If you were to go to their website, you’d only find 36 lb test still available in limited quantities.
If you’ve stuck with this line for years, you can still find it on Amazon in a variety of sizes. It appears however that it will not keep going for long.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 8 | 16 | 24 | 32 | 40 | 48 | 56 | 64 | 72 | 80 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Cortland Great Lakes Lead Core
- Cortland 132627 Leadcore 10 Color
Made in the USA, Cortland Lead Core line is your typical lead core line product. It averages 5 feet per color depth, comes in a range of strengths from 12 to 36 lb test, and is made with a durable fiber sheath.
Harder to come by than the big brands, it’s not a bad lead core line by any stretch. But if you’re new to lead core line fishing and don’t mind buying a superior product made in another country, you’re best bet is to go with Tuf-Line or Sufix.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Woodstock Metered Lead Core
- Nylon exterior with a micro lead core.
- Great when trolling without use of a downrigger.
- Allows you to fish deep-where the fish live.
Another small outfit line, the Woodstock Metered Lead Core is similar to the Cortland series, approaching 5 feet per color depth.
Unlike Cortland, this line is available in 100, 200, and 1000 yard spools. You can buy Woodstock line in 12 lb test all the way up to 80 lb.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
Lead Core Line Depth Chart – Mason Lead Core
- Package quantity: 1
- Country of Origin: United States
- Package weight:1.2 lb
- Product Type: FISHING LINE
Finally we have Mason Lead Core line.
Mason is constructed of a strong Nylon sheath surrounding a flexible lead core. Its strengths range from 12 to 45 lb test and comes in only 100 yard spools.
| # of Colors | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Depth (in feet) | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 |
This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI
