Rio Trout Powerflex Plus High Performance Tapered Leader

The other leader we go through by the box. Where the SA Absolute wins on suppleness, the Powerflex Plus wins on raw strength — up to 20% higher tensile than standard nylon — and a powerful butt section that turns over bobber-and-double-nymph rigs even when the afternoon wind comes howling down Provo Canyon. If you fish indicator rigs or streamers more than dries, this is your leader.

Our local cheat sheet

• 9' 4X–5X: everyday Provo/Weber nymphing
• 7.5' 2X–3X: streamers and hopper season
• 12' 5X–6X: spooky flat-water fish and dry-fly finesse

Why we like it

• Strongest nylon leader Rio makes — without giving up knot strength or suppleness
• Hand-tied perfection loop for fast rigging with cold fingers
• Available 7.5', 9', and 12' in 0X–7X

Pro tip: buy three, lose two to willows, thank yourself later. Free in-store pickup on the way up the canyon.