Line Backing Vs Top Shot

[SteelheadJones]

Hey guys/gals,

 

 

I like using Fluorocarbon and want to re-spool a few setups but don't want to break the bank.  My questions is when using a cheap mono or co-polymer for backing, should I be paying attention to line diameter to tie the lines together or pound test, or neither?  For example, if I have a T-Rig set up that I have 12# fluorocarbon top shot, should I match that up with a 12# backing or a line with similar diameter?

 

 

Also any advice on what knot you folks use would be helpful as well.  I have used a Modified Albright knot on a braid setup/co-poly setup and it seems to have worked well.

[Raul]

Of course there won´t be a massive difference in diameter between let´s say 10 lb nylon backing and 12 lb FC mainline but better use similar diameters. The only knot I use to join two lines is the uni knot, I don´t see any need to use another when this one has served me well for 4 decades.

[new2BC4bass]

I use whatever mono cost me the least.  I can't see backing diameter making a difference.  However, I don't use 8# from my bulk spool although it wouldn't make a difference other than to use more line.  I use 12# or larger.  Nothing wrong with the Uni Knot.  Been using it for 35-40 years.  I do like the Alberto for splicing lines because of its smaller diameter.

[gulfcaptain]

I use 20lb backing on mine.  Takes less line to fill up to where I want it.  Normally tie a blood knot to my backing if it's mono to Flouro, but have almost gone straight braid to topshots so use an albright on almost all my braid to mono/flouro connections.

[SirSnookalot]

Backing and top shot are 2 different things.  A common offshore saltwater set up on a large capacity reel may be 400+ yards of braid topped off with 50-75 yards of mono for stretch, then a leader, that's called a top shot, certainly not a set up for bass fishing.

Backing is loading up mono first and braid on top as the main line, generally used to conserve using more braided line that's needed.

[SteelheadJones]

Thank you Sir for the clarification. I wasn't exactly sure what terminology to use to get my question asked. Thanks for the answers everyone. I appreciate it.