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Braided mainline/ leader options for distance (11 posts / 2,972 views)
phil090781
Posts: 2,335
Post #1 16 Dec 2024 10:18
0
Hi all,

I fish a large, shallow, weedy gravel pit where fishing at distance is often required.

I need to fish comfortably (ish) at 30+ wraps. Currently I'm just about ok at 30 wraps but a few extra yards would undoubtedly get me a few more bites. I've had casting tuition with TE which has certainly helped too. I'm currently using the Avid Braid in 30lb (0.25mm) tied direct to leadcore leader. Rods are TX2 intensity in 13ft

Have been wondering if there is a better mainline/leader set up that will get me that extra distance but still do everything else I need it to. I noticed that Scott Lloyd uses whiplash with a mono leader, but I'm a bit worried about the leader knot with the weed, and ideally I need a neutral or sinking braid as there's lots of birdlife and getting the line down as much as possible is important to keep it out of the way.

Has anyone got any advice on suitable set up?

Cheers



Spike Spike
Posts: 2,098
Post #2 16 Dec 2024 12:56
0
In reply to Post #1
With that diameter braid and a shockleader you should be good for 160 yards + pal.

I used the same rods, 12lb syncro and a braid leader when on a big pit last year and managed to fish round 172-176 yards with the right wind. But 160 on average

Just practice buddy and trust the rods, get a good compression in them and they'll go
phil090781
Posts: 2,335
Post #3 16 Dec 2024 13:10
0
In reply to Post #2
I think you're right, probably just a case of perfecting the technique. I seem to be caught in the situation of needing to give it 100% effort with a 60% perfect technique to fish consistently at 30 wraps. Think I need to get up there over winter and properly practice.

Out of interest what lead size are you using for those distances? I've been using g 4 1/2oz but was thinking of stepping up to 5
Spike Spike
Posts: 2,098
Post #4 16 Dec 2024 14:55
0
In reply to Post #3
Personally buddy I found 4oz suited the rod perfect.

Where are you based ? Always welcome to come up to Telford and I'll help out if you like. Pool behind my house
phil090781
Posts: 2,335
Post #5 16 Dec 2024 15:22
0
In reply to Post #4
That's a kind offer, thanks. I'm in Northants so quite a way away.

Will try to get out a bit over winter and practice. Interesting that you found 4oz optimum. Perhaps I need to go down in weight rather than up. Will have a play about.
Spike Spike
Posts: 2,098
Post #6 16 Dec 2024 15:48
0
In reply to Post #5
No problem buddy keep us updated.

Defiantly try a shockleader over leadcore. But being braided mainline the rod should compress fine
Adamroybooth Adamroybooth
Posts: 1,043
Post #7 17 Dec 2024 11:59
0
In reply to Post #1
Try whiplash to a braid shockleader on one rod and see how you get on.

Whiplash is so much thinner than what you are using u will see a big difference. Keep it nice and wet when casting. It will be neutral buoyancy after a few trips.

Report back pal
woody71
Posts: 3,098
Post #8 17 Dec 2024 15:33
0
In reply to Post #1
I dont think the avid braid is as thin as it states on the label and the tackle box tests seem to agree.
I do use the avid braid it does cast quite well but no where near as well as say daiwa j braid 8 or as mentioned whiplash, another one to look at would be powerpro
Mr_Crabtree Mr_Crabtree
Posts: 44
Post #9 17 Dec 2024 16:05
0
Sorry to jump on your thread. Can I ask what b.s whiplash you guys are happy to go down to please? 20lb looks so thin and I would be concerned of fishing it with any amount of weed present?
JamieNow JamieNow
Posts: 7,471
Post #10 17 Dec 2024 22:05
0
whilst whiplash is thinner, it's abrasion resistance is terrible & will more than likely get damaged by the weed (fraying etc).

I've been using braid pretty much exclusively for the last 12 years & have been through most North American brands in that time (Whiplash, Whiplash Pro, Suffix 832, Kastking, Berkley braids, spidewire etc) & the best by a mile is standard moss green Powerpro in 30lb bs which is stated at 0.28mm but I think it's thinner & casts well due to how supple it is. I have found it cuts through most weed & is definitely the most abrasion-resistant & lasts all year on my spools. It's neutral buoyancy & sinks with a little tension on the line. I typically use a leadcore leader & fish straight through up to 100yards. Shouldn't be a problem with a mono leader for bigger distances. remember to slightly underfil your spools compared to mono as it can give you wind knots when they're up to the rim as it leaves the spool too quickly.

good luck
Mr_Crabtree Mr_Crabtree
Posts: 44
Post #11 18 Dec 2024 16:12
0
In reply to Post #10
Thanks for the reply. Will take your advice and see how far I can get out with the power pro before compromising for extra distance.
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