The snood, also called a leader, gangion, or branch line, is the short line that connects the hook to the groundline. It’s usually made from strong materials like twisted or braided nylon (polyamide) or polyester, with its thickness and length varying depending on the type of fish being targeted. To prevent tangling with the groundline, snoods are often treated with an oil and varnish mixture, which makes them stiffer and easier to handle. Snoods come in different sizes to match various hook types and fishing needs. The most commonly used hooks is the EC hook, available in sizes 11/0, 12/0, 13/0, 14/0, and 15/0.