Braid on b/c problems...

[CyBasser]

Hi everybody,

Earlier today I have had problems while using one of my b/c reels with 20lb braid. Before saying anything more, I need to add that I started using b/c gear about five months ago (with mono) and after the initial learning curve I did not have any problems in casting.

Before switching to b/c gear I was using 20lb braid on almost all my spinning reels - I prefer braid for most of my fishing applications. After I started using b/c reels I started out with mono (Trilene XL) which I knew would be very helpful during learning - which indeed it was. Anyway, having become quite proficient at casting, I decided to put 20lb braid on one of my baitcasters (Daiva Adv Super Tuned). I had no problems during the first outing with that setup. Today was the second time I used it. After about one hour of casting, one of my casts stopped in mid-air (with no overrun or backlash). I checked and it seemed like just one uneven coling on the spool which I quickly removed. Next attempt, the cast again stopped in mid air and this time the line just flew off with my jig, having broken right at the spool. I pulled a few yards of line (below which the remaining line on the spool appeared smooth), and continued. No problems for a few casts, then again a mid-cast stop - this time the spooled line appeared smooth. Whatever I tried since that time, the cast would stop at about 10 yards. I even pulled out carefully on the shore more than 30 yards of line and re-spooled it smoothly but the problem persisted.

I have gained a lot of experience using the breaking mechanisms, so I played with those, I changed lures (various weights), no change. The cast would stop at about 10 yards. I even had a minor backlash at some point while fooling with too loose brakes (which meant again lying out the line and re-spooling it), but the problem persisted all though the afternoon.

I would like to know if other people using baitcasting reels with braided lines have had similar experiences. If yes, what is the best solution? I enjoy both using b/c gear and braid, so I was a bit saddened for today's experience...

[Grey Wolf]

Are you sure it's not your reel ?

[Maxximus Redneckus]

Almost sounds as if the handle is moving engaging the spool

[New 2 Bass]

Is the line getting burried in itself?  Is the line a "mushy" spool or is it tight?  You might have to let all the line out and have your buddy hold it tight while you reel it in nice and tight onto the spool.  That or you have your break on to tight.  Just my guess.

Al

[dodgeguy]

first of all 20 lb is to light on a baitcaster.thicker line is less prone to dig in which is what it sounds like yours did.the lightest line i would use would be 12/50 braid.i suggest 16/65 sufix braid on a baitcaster and up to 80 lb for flipping.sufix braid is the best braid made.it's the smoothest and doesn't dig. if you try sufix in 12/50 0r 16/65 and are still having issues then it isn't the line.

[Alpster]

I agree with dodgeguy, try a larger diameter braid, it behaves much better. Minimum 50lb on a bc, you can get away with lighter braid on a spinning reel. JMHO

Ronnie

[lubina]

Like Alpsters and Dodgeguy said, minimum 50 in a BC, I favor Sufix as well.

[Papa_Tom]

I think you're getting some solid advice about the line/line digging being the issue with your casting.  You may also look at how you are initially spooling up the braid.  I use a cheap little BPS aluminum line winder held between my feet so that I can apply my line evenly and under tension.  Helps a lot to start out with an even, tight spool.  When it starts to feel soft under your thumb, tighten it up some on the retrieve.  

I use PowerPro and have for a good while.  Sufix came out after I got comfortable with this one.  You may like something else altogether.  It may be better for you to use the heavier sizes as advised, at least until you master this as I'm sure you will.  Personally, I use 30/8 only, but I have been doing this a long time (translation: I'm old) and am comfortable with it.  Good luck

[CyBasser]

Thanks to all for the replies....

The problem seems to be line digging indeed. I will be experimenting with heavier line this weekend....

Regarding the answers about the handle engaging the spool, it was not an issue as the spool was revolving causing (very) minor backlashes upon the cast was interrupted. I guess I should have mentioned that..

[Hale]

I had this problem with a few brands of braids. It would drive me crazy at first not understanding what the deal was. I would switch back to my choice to have it go away and then for some reson swithc up to another brand and have it occur again. It is the line digging in...pretty much the same thing that happens after locking into a big fish or a hang up and you pull the line tight.