Korda Heli-Safe Lead Release System

The Korda Heli-Safe Lead Release System represents a massive leap forward in terminal tackle safety and efficiency. At Gerry’s Fishing, we recognize that for years, anglers fishing helicopter or Chod rigs struggled with a consistent way to drop the lead. This system was developed to solve that exact problem, providing a “game-changing” solution for fishing at extreme range or in heavy weed.

The Heli-Safe is a pressure-release system that allows the lead to be discharged only when a fish is hooked. This is vital when using heavy leads at distance, as the weight of the lead can often swing and pull the hook out of a fish’s mouth during the fight. By dropping the lead, you significantly increase your “landed fish” ratio.

Key Features & Performance

• Pressure-Release Mechanism: The system features a latched lead clip that remains secure during the cast and the retrieve but opens automatically once a hooked fish pulls against the angler.

• Intelligent Design: Unlike standard lead clips, the Heli-Safe allows you to choose. If you are fishing clear water and don’t need to lose the lead, you can insert the provided plastic collar to fix the lead in place.

• Chod Rig Specialist: Perfect for Chod rigs where the hooklink is very short. Dropping the heavy lead immediately prevents the “pendulum effect” that often leads to hook pulls.

• Weed Safety: In weedy venues, losing the lead is often the only way to get a fish to the surface and into the net. The Heli-Safe ensures this happens consistently every time.

• Retrieve Protection: By using a Barrel Bead above the system, you can prevent the lead from discharging prematurely if you happen to pick up a small amount of weed or debris while winding in.

Technical Specifications

Examples of Where to Use

• Long-Range Chod Fishing: When you need a 4oz+ lead to reach the horizon, the Heli-Safe ensures that heavy weight doesn’t cost you the fish once it’s hooked.

• Solid Weed Beds: If the lake you are fishing is “choked,” the Heli-Safe is essential. Dropping the lead instantly causes the fish to rise in the water column, keeping it out of the thickest weed near the bottom.

• Pressured Venues: On lakes where fish are “rig shy,” the ability to have a neat, safe helicopter setup that doesn’t leave a heavy lead bouncing around the lake bed is a huge tactical advantage.

• Standard Rotary Rigs: Even if you aren’t using a Chod, the Heli-Safe works perfectly with standard helicopter hooklinks for fishing over silt or light debris.

Gerry’s Pro Tip

The “Collar” Strategy:

Always assess your swim before you cast. If the bottom is clear and there are no snags, use the small plastic collar to lock the lead. This saves you money on leads and is better for the environment. However, if you’re fishing near snags or in weed, remove the collar immediately. The Heli-Safe is all about versatility—don’t be afraid to switch between “drop-off” and “retain” modes as the situation changes throughout your session!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the lead fall off during the cast?

No. The latch is designed to withstand the force of a heavy cast. It only opens when the specific pressure of a hooked fish pulling from the opposite direction is applied to the mechanism.

Can I use this with any leader?

The Heli-Safe is designed to work seamlessly with Korda’s own leader range (like Subline or Leadcore) and is best used in conjunction with the Korda No-Trace Bead system for maximum safety.

What is the Barrel Bead for?

The Barrel Bead acts as a “buffer.” If you are winding in and hit a small patch of weed, the bead prevents that pressure from opening the latch. When a fish is on, the bead is pushed down, allowing the latch to function as intended.

Can I use this for naked Chod rigs?

Yes, it can be used for “Naked” setups (straight onto the mainline), provided you use the correct sleeve and bead setup to ensure the rig can still slide safely off the line in the event of a breakage.