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Posts: 2026
| I've been using 50 to 65 lb braid for small musky-sized cranks, without problem. However, I'm downsizing further, and have been thinking of adding a Mono shock leader, or just switching to my 20 lb Mono striper reel, with a fluoro leader. The reason being is I had a discussion with a guy and his concern was that the small hooks on some of the bass sized cranks I use can bend on a hookset and the fight. The mono gives, so there may not be as much stress on the hooks.
I'm probably going to start using a #5 split ring to attach the leader to the bait. These bass lures don't run as well with a snap it seems.
Thoughts from more experienced guys? |
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Posts: 390
| Braid diameter between even 30 and 80 lb is negligible. No reason to downsize line though a small ~100lb fluoro leader would be much better for action than 175. Biggest issue if the leader changes the orientation of the bait in the water.you could test this easily.
Definetly upgrade hooks, but this could effect action if hooks are heavier, I have added heavier hooks to hj13 rapala but you have to eliminate the middle hook and just add 2 bigger ones to keep weight distribution comparable. |
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Posts: 20248
Location: oswego, il | Since you are downsizing the give of a lighter rod will help alot. You would have to have a long lead of mono to have any give. I would not worry about it. Don't lock the drag down. On small baits you can't upsize hooks too much without messing up the lure action or it sinking instead of floating. About 1 size. I use a flippin stick and use bass sized revo s and a calcutta 200 with 30 and 40lb braid fof small baits. Caught fish up to 48". The give will come in the rod and drag. |
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Posts: 2026
| That's basically my setup Todd. I'll forget about mono then. Downsizing has really paid off down in Southern IL. The baits I'm using haven't done well with upsizing hooks, so I'll just back off the drag. Thanks guys. |
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Posts: 499
Location: Northern Illinois | I use 40# test 49 strand ss leaders with smaller cranks as they can be engulfed by the fish. That style leader does not inhibit the action of the bait. Back off the drag a bit. |
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