Bait casting reels & lighter line?

[nnation]

Like many others I have always used a spinning reel but would like to start using a bait casting reel. After many casts it seems no matter how good of a spinning reel you have there is always some line twist. I always fish with lighter line such as 6 and 8lb for bass, rarely 10lb. That's just what I prefer. Since heavier line is recommended for the bait casters, how efficient is it in casting 8lb line? I'm sure i would start out with heavier line at first but if there are people that can use 8lb line comfortably on a bait caster then I'll go for it. Just wanted some opinions on the use of lighter line with a bait caster.

[LilyDuck]

I started throwing a baitcaster last year and I am confortable with 10lbs. I didnt fair to well with 8.

[roger23]

I use 8 lb xt on 2 of mine I have had good luck with it,I have reels with 10,12,14,& 17 just depends on what I am fishing for and how I am fishing,,I will say one thing when you get a good backlash with 8 Lb you might just as well cut it off happens to me at least once a year

[CubanFisherman]

You could always tie on a lighter leader. Try a Uni-to-Uni or even an Albright knot.

[DaveW731]

Lines have different diameter for the same pound-test rating. I have found that lines with between .010 and .013 diameter work the best, regardless of rating. That usually means between 10# and 14#, however Gamma's 8# is .011 (I think), as I believe is 8# XT. My personal favorite line has been Berdkley Sensation 10# (.010 diameter). Wouldn't want to go any thinner. Backlashes with that line is still a bit of a pain.

[DeliciousBass]

I agree -- I fish 8 lb all year on all of my baitcasters. No problems

[bentrod]

Like many others I have always used a spinning reel but would like to start using a bait casting reel. After many casts it seems no matter how good of a spinning reel you have there is always some line twist. I always fish with lighter line such as 6 and 8lb for bass, rarely 10lb. That's just what I prefer. Since heavier line is recommended for the bait casters, how efficient is it in casting 8lb line? I'm sure i would start out with heavier line at first but if there are people that can use 8lb line comfortably on a bait caster then I'll go for it. Just wanted some opinions on the use of lighter line with a bait caster.

I use 12 - 17 mostly, a little tip:

Peal off about 50' of line, place small piece of duct tape on reel, now wind up your line. You can only cast as far as the tape on the spool, so your back lash will not go too deep into the line. Now cast that about a zillion times until you get good. then extend that.

I have been using baitcasters for 60 years. Still backlash a little, but still like it over spinning reel.

[chamookman]

I have four baitcasters flled with 8lb. Fireline - works very well. C-man

[Dedge]

I really have a much easier time casting power pro or remingtons super lokt than any mono I ever had on my baitcasters.


Dan

[ESOX]

I use Power Pro on my bass sized baitcasters. Love it. For newbies to baitcasting, I would suggest 30# (8# diameter). I use 20#, it cuts weeds like a sythe.

[nnation]

Thanks for the replys. The tape thing sounds like a good idea. Much less line to cut apart. Anyone try out the Cableas brand Prodigy bait caster or Quantums?

[FISH21]

I use 20lb and 15lb PowerPro on my baitcasters which have a 6lb and 4lb diameter, and I can cast fine with them. I seem to not backlash as much with braided line either...

[chamookman]

The Cabela's Prodigy baitcasters are top-notch ! I have three of them and am impressed. They pull double duty - casting cranks for Walleye/Smallmouth and verticle jigging 'Eyes. Cast like a dream, with a good drag. Superb reel for the money ! C-man

[eyesforever]

been using baitcasters for 60yrs......me too, remember trying to cast Flatfish with those old reels and the braided line:lol: ? Now there were some backlashes:yikes: