For Winter Steelhead I use 15# Ande Green mainline and 12# - 15# Maxima leader. When fishing spoons or spinners the flash and action of the lure get the fishes attention and they key on the lure, heavier line will not spook the fish. Also when fishing these lures I use a 2/0 siwash hook and need the heavier line to help drive the hook home. If drift fishing I will match the line to the river conditions and size of fish, as well as the rod I am using. On smaller streams for hatchery steelhead I may go as light as 6# or 8# test if conditons warrant. But on large rivers for big natives I will not go lighter than 15#. Match your line to the rest of your equipment. Good fishing!