Braided Line for Casting to Lakers?

[NausetDog]

Need some advice. I've just started Laker fishing for the first time this season at Wachusett & had some great luck so far casting lures. Problem is I fish pretty lite gear (4 - 6# test) and I've found that line stretch has been a problem setting hooks and feeling strikes.

Has anyone ever fished braided line with a flourocarbon leader for casting lures to Lakers? How long a leader and what pound test would you recommend?

[jewmont3]

Yes I use braided line with a flouro leader casting lures and also for shiners on the bottom. I have used 14lb smoke fireline right to the lure before and caught them as well. Currently I use 20lb suffix green braid with a 12lb Pline flouro leader. I use that rig for everything because all my rods are multipurpose. If you are just going to target lakers and trout maybe 10lb braid and a little lighter flouro will be better for you. Try not to use a swivel to connect the lines if you can help it too. I have a hard time with all line connection knots except the Seaguar knot. Its very simple and easy once you get the hang of it. Havent had it break on me yet! I use it in the ocean as well.


Hope this helps.

thanks,
Mike

[DAQ]

I use 10-12 lb test braid with a 3-6 foot mono leader when I fish there. The leader is usually 6 or 8 lb test.

[influx99]

The thinner the better for me. 8lb braid, doesn't matter which in my opinion, but can't go wrong with PPro. Smallest QUALITY swivel you can find or direct-tie to 4 or 6lb flouro, about 5' long.

If you want to cast far, go for a longer rod. My go-to at the Chu is a 9' St. Croix steelhead rod, bordering on a noodle rod. The longer, whippier rod also goes easier on the lighter line when casting castmasters, preventing snap-offs.

There's enough backbone in that setup to not miss a strike, especially with the small hooks on those trout lures.