What Type Of Line Should I Be Using?

[JackW8]

So, I decided to purchase the Abu Garcia Black Max and the Cabela's Pro Guide Casting Rod. Now I was wondering what type of line should I be using? I was reading around the forums and it seems like most people recommend braid, anywhere from 15-25 lb test. Now I was wondering what brand should I get, what lb test and what is the best place to purchase it? 

 

Thanks for the help.

[JLeon77]

If you are new to bait casters you should get a heavier braid like 50lb. If you indeed are new, you should start with something inexpensive in case you get a bad backlash and have to cut it out. When I started with a bait caster I started with 15 Berkeley XL... Cheap and thick enough to be easy to learn with. The thinner the line the tougher to manage on a baitcaster when learning. Once you are comfortable with the reel you can get line for your intended use. I use Seaguar Invisx 15lb or 12 lb for most of my rods except if you are fishing top water, you will need mono or braid. Since you mentioned cabelas, their x50 fluorosis awesome, and you can usually get P-line copolymer there and it is really good for the price.

[JackW8]

If you are new to bait casters you should get a heavier braid like 50lb. If you indeed are new, you should start with something inexpensive in case you get a bad backlash and have to cut it out. When I started with a bait caster I started with 15 Berkeley XL... Cheap and thick enough to be easy to learn with. The thinner the line the tougher to manage on a baitcaster when learning. Once you are comfortable with the reel you can get line for your intended use. I use Seaguar Invisx 15lb or 12 lb for most of my rods except if you are fishing top water, you will need mono or braid. Since you mentioned cabelas, their x50 fluorosis awesome, and you can usually get P-line copolymer there and it is really good for the price.

So when I am looking to buy line for intended use after practice the P-Line CXX Xtra Strong Copolymer - Green from Cabelas would be good for bass fishing? Also if I were to purchase this what lb test should I get and is the 300 yards enough or should I get the 600 yards? Also thanks for all the help!

[RoLo]

In my case, it will always be braided polyethylene,

but which test-strength and the need for a leader will depend on the application.

 

Roger

[smr_hga]

Depends on what type of fishing your doing. But for beginner baitcasters i'd suggest braid.

[ABW]

The line ratings on your rod apply to monofilament / fluorocarbon line diameters. 50 lb braid's diameter is equivalent to your 12 lb monos. 

 

If you want, I find that monofilament is easy to use too. Trilene Big Game in 12 or 15 lb. 

[Jar11591]

When I was learning to use baitcasters, I learned the following:  Braid is MUCH easier to learn to cast, but heavy monofilament is a lot more forgiving when picking out a backlash.

[Penguino]

Get mono. Using braid as a beginner is = wasting $$$. Start off with a cheap 12lb copoly or mono, because you will undoubtedly have to cut your line multiple times.

[J Francho]

When I was limited to one reel, I bought an extra spool. One had 12# CXX, the other 50# Power Pro.

[Smokinal]

Braid is by far the easiest to cast on a baitcaster, imo. Spool up with 20# Power Pro Super Slick, tie on a rattle trap, adjust the reel correctly (in vid below) and go to town.

 

 

And I would start out with the spool a little on the tight side and loosen it up as you get more comfortable casting and learn when and how to feather the spool with your thumb.

Don't be scared; it's a piece-o-cake. You'll love it.

[thirtysixit]

The line ratings on your rod apply to monofilament / fluorocarbon line diameters. 50 lb braid's diameter is equivalent to your 12 lb monos. 

 

If you want, I find that monofilament is easy to use too. Trilene Big Game in 12 or 15 lb. 

^ This is exactly what you need on your first BC reel.