I'm going to try a fluorocarbon leader for crappie but have no idea what pound test to use or what knot to attach it to Trilene XL. It'll be for jigs and minnows. Appreciate any input.

Straight braid keep it simple

https://youtu.be/Hzgw4hn9_-I

Doesn't get much easier than this. I use 10lb test leader, just my preference.

I use 20# Suffix 832 tied to a 12# fluoro leader with a blood knot. Works great

20 to 12/10 is best....I use a uni to uni knot.

Why do you want to try a leader & be specific. Most don`t have a clue just want to do it .

I tried several...Seaguar Red Label worked the best for me. 12lb.

Because, from what I've read, a fluorocarbon leader produces more bites, ergo, more crappie. I attribute it to lower visibility, although I don't know if that's the reason. I gleaned this information from other fishermen and guides. (People who have much more experience than me.)

I would have thought you'd go lighter than 12 lb. surprised to see that heavy for crappie.

Some use fluoro leader, some tie directly to their line. I don't think crappie are really that line shy but I still use a fluoro leader out of habit. Takes little time to tie and more importantly, it gives me a boost of confidence. I join 20lb PP braid to 12lb fluoro - uni knot.

^ This ^

I use 8 pound Vanish Gold Flourocarbon by Berkeley.

20 pound Power Pro Super Slick Braid.

This is how I attach the two.

https://youtu.be/LIsD5-W6pFE

Only difference is I go through the ballon 3 times instead of the two times that he does in the video.

Quick and Easy and it works!

Remember when using Flourocarbon you have to wet it with saliva before you cinch the knot or it will burn and break like peanut brittle.

Leader doesn't matter...until it does.

Great video and it's so simple, I can tie it! Thanks a ton.

LOWER VISIBILITY? BINGO!!#1 reason especially when fishing Gin Clear water lakes although opinions may vary but You Sir can go to the head of the class! You have a clue

Trilene XL is clear mono. Unless you're fishing water that has visibility to 8+ ft, I don't think you need a fluoro leader with clear mono.

Doesn't seem to bother the fish, and on Fork there's always the chance of a big bass or catfish. Another reason is I run a weight above my jig quite often and the stiffer line helps minimize tangles.

I go 15# braid to 10# Invisex on a Champion Extreme or G-Rod. I do it for the sensitivity. I like to feel the crappie nosing up to my jig or when they just pick it up at 30'.

I use 10 LB tied to a barrel swivel when using minnows and 6 lb when using a jig. You only need it if the water is clear.

It doesn't make a difference from what I have seen. It is more of a confidence thing. It also makes it easier to retie after breaking off. I have used the green Mr. Crappie line for over 10 years with no problems even in clear water.

i bet your boat will spook them before the line does if we are talking real clear lakes. I have not fished for crappie in clear lakes - they just don't really exist in North Texas!