1. Troutnut Forum
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2. Fly Tying
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3. Does indicator affect leader size?

I've never fished an indicator. If I put on an indicator, do I need to change leader size? My current plan is to fish wooly buggers with a 2x-3x leader and no indicator.

If I choose to fish nymphs with an indicator, should I still use the fly size/3-4 OR will the indicator make a difference in leader size?

I really don't see how it would make a difference. Of course, you don't want an indicator too small that the weight of the fly takes it under. But as for leader size, I really can't think of anything you should worry about.

Just make sure the length of the leader and tippet is long enough from the indicator to the fly to reach the desired depth.

What type of indicator are you thinking of using. I like the Airflo indicators because you can move the indicator up and down the line easily and it won't kink your leader.

I bought a pack of the small, cork Orvis indicators attached by doubling the line, passing it through the eye then running the indicator through the loop. I'm not necessarily set on these, it's just what my local shop had.

Are the airflo Indy’s pretty much the same as the thingamabobbers where you have the screw on adjuster top? I like those too if that’s the one

Yes, they are. Someone was thinking when they came up with that idea.

Yes they were!!