Do you love big bluegill?

I just bought some 5lb braid, questions

I've always used either 4 or 6lb mono my entire fishing career, it's what dad raised me on. Today I bought a new President model reel and the guy at the Bass Pro Shop talked me into buying some 5lb braid for the reel. He said I need a mono backer though. What would be the best knot to tie in this situation? The Blood Knot seems to be the popular choice, what about the Albright Knot or Surgeon's Knot? He did say the braid can be hard to control on windy days but that I'll feel bites I've never felt before. Also said to put sissors in the tackle box, said clippers normally won't cut braid.

He also educated me on properly using the drag of my reel. He said my drag and most fisherman's drag for that matter, is way to tight. He suggest I ease my drag back considerably, almost to much for my taste. This guy was very knowledgable though and fished for ten years in various bass tournaments. Any answers?

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Permalink Reply by Todd Combs on February 20, 2012 at 5:21pm

I've used braid for several years and yes you do need a few yards(5-10) of mono backing. It keeps the braid from slipping on the spool. I would use a simple surgeon knot to join the mono to the braid, that far down on the spool you should have no worries of it hanging up in your guides. From saltwater experience I've learned not to tie my line to the spool, just use electrical tape to hold it to the spool for the first wrap. This will also help with slipping and the event you get spooled, no damage to reel or rod trying to break off.

The lighter drag setting is to keep from pulling the hook out of their mouth or thru the fishes lip.

You will definately feel the differance between mono and braid. As far as a leader, you really only need one in ultra clear water. I use #6 power pro, for trout fishing tied straight to the hook and never had a problem. Also use the same line on all my UL reels for panfishing.