Count me among those who use leaders.. Biggest percentage of my rods run braid. I happen to be a Power Pro fan but I think there are a lot of good ones out there. Spiderwire was the first braid I ever used and I liked it (braid) from the first day. Problem with the early SW was, after use it would deteriorate and literally fall apart. I'm sure it's better now. I also run Suffix floro.. I used to run Vanish, but it is bad about going "bad" with age. If it gets over about a year old it will break at the knot - repeatedly. In stained or dirty water.. I'm with Cap'n.. leader not necessary.. In clear water - I'm a firm believer.