What Size Braided Line To Use?

[Mhalzorn]

Hello all. I recently purchased a Pflueger Summit (SMT30X) spinning reel and I'm planning on buying a St. Croix Triumph 6'6" MF spinning rod. After reading through the forums I've decided to use PowerPro braided line with a fluorocarbon leader. I'm still undecided when it comes to backing with monofilament line first, or to solely use the braided line after placing electrical tape on the spool. What, if any, are the pros and cons of either setup?

 

The main question I have is what pound line is recommended for my reel? Note that the Pflueger Summit (SMT30X) has the same spool size as the Pflueger President (6930X). 

 

Regarding my setup, it appears as though most individuals run either 10, 15, or 20lb. braided line. However, I haven't seen anyone mention the 30lb. line. According to PowerPro's specifications, their 30lb. line is equivalent to an 8lb. monofilament line. If I'm understanding what I've read correctly it doesn't appear as though individuals run with anymore than double their casting length with braided line (obviously this doesn't apply to an electrical tape setup). Therefore I fail to see the size of line mattering in regards to spool capacity. Can anyone can help me understand why I shouldn't just use the largest size?

 

My final question regards what size monofilament line, and fluorocarbon line to use. My assumption is that I just go with whatever diameter matches up with the braided line I choose. Ex. PowerPro 20lb. braided would be backed with 6lb. monofilament , and a 6lb. fluorocarbon leader. 

 

All answers, corrections, clarifications, and further advise is greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks.

[Mr Swim Jig]

30lbs should be just fine. It is up to you if you want to use mono for backing or use tape. I prefer compression tape. Power Pro use to include it with their braid.

[Darren.]

I look at braid for strength, I do not try to match diameter equivalent with mono. I see no need to do that, but we are each different. I've caught some beasts on 10lb braid + leader, including my PB of 7.5 lbs in thick salad.

 

Braid is only one part of the equation. Your drag, your leader, your rod factor in. If you set your drag too tight, you can snap your line on a hookset. You already know that, just stating the obvious.

 

So on spinning reels I use 10 pound Power Pro, and i'll use a max of 15.

 

I always use a mono backing. Prefer to not "waste"- in my view - an entire 150 or 300 yard spool of expensive braid. Never been spooled, so I put enough on it so as to be able to line 2 or more reels.

 

10 pound braid is very strong, arguably stronger than it's rating. I always tie a leader - and my leaders go from 6 - 15 lb test.

[WRB]

With 10 to 20 lb braid you don't need a leader other than breaking off snagged lures as bass are rarely line shy.

When I use braid it's Daiwa Samurai 30 lb, (.010 dia) casts without any noise, softer and better knot strength with FC leaders.

130 yd spool, use tape and the entire spool, you can reverse it whenever needed.

Tom

[Cgrinder]

If I had to respool my spinning reel, I'd do 15 lb. Power Pro. The 10 lb. is very sharp, for lack of a better word. I cut my fingers tightening knots and it seems to cut through thicker fluorocarbon leaders.

If you want to go with a 10 lb. braid, I would get Sufix 832. I have many spools of regular Power Pro and the 10 lb. has been the only disappointment.

[Felix77]

I generally go 15lb Braid.  I like the way my leaders hold up on 15lb as opposed to 10lb.  Anything between 10-20 should work just fine.

[Hogsticker]

Use the lightest pound, thinnest diameter line you can get away with. I prefer 20 lb braid on spinning reels. And yes, I try to match diameters when using backing or leaders.

[Flywatersmallie]

I generally use 10 on spinning reels with no leader. Bass aren't line shy generally and I fish a few lakes with 20' visibility. Go as thin as you can comfortably. The strength isn't an issue. Diameter is. You will be able to cast further with smaller braid as there is less friction both coming off the spool and through the guides.