Line With Xf Action Rod

[Arv]

I'm looking at getting the Phenix M1, 7'2'' H/XF casting rod on black friday. I plan on using this rod primarily for jigs and t-rigs. I would like to use braid since that also gives me the option of adding an FC leader, but I'm worried about annihalating fish on the hook sets. I don't have a problem going straight FC but braid would be my preference. I do not fish any heavy slop but I do fish a lot of submerged weeds and timber. If I go straight FC I was thinking around 20lb test. What are yalls thoughts? Thanks in advance.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

The cross-their-eyeballs/jaw braeking hooksets are for dramatic effect on TV. Heavy baits with heavy wire hooks need a little more force to penetrate but IMO the amount of force needed is played up. There is no reason to rule out braid just because you're using a heavy rod with a fast action.

[roadwarrior]

Hmm...

I have jerked a small fish out of the water, but you don't need to worry

about "annihilating " a bass.

[papajoe222]

I wouldn't hesitate to go with the braid. Hook sets are all about rod tip speed and not power. The braid wll drive that lesson home for you and you'll find that when using other lines you won't need to 'cross their eyes' to get a good hook set.

[Darren.]

Don't worry about it, you'll get used to it in short order. A reel-down, sweeping set will become second-hand in no time.

[Arv]

Cool. Thanks for the feedback guys. I'm glad to hear I can stick with braid for this set up.

[kickerfish1]

If you choose floro I would say 15lb should suffice just fine. I rarely go above 12lb and don't have any issues with breakage. I have straightened Gamagatsu hooks in timber with 12# floro. The hook gave way before the knot did. Braid or floro would be fine for this rod and as DVT stated you don't have to rip their lips out to set a hook, just a solid hookset.