What Type Of Line For Beginner Baitcaster?

[Kevinindel]

Greetings:

Just a quick question for all you experts.

I just received my first baitcasting reel (Curado 100DSV) and was wondering about which type of line should I use? Not really specific brand- but that would be nice).

MONO or BRAIDED?

My intended use for the next few months will mainly fishing off a pier in the Delaware Bay. I have been using mainly braided (Fireline 20lb) on spinning reels.

My new Curado 100DSV has a rating of 120/12. I could probably put on a little more if its braided- but I don't think I will need it.

Just curious if one was better than another for a new baitcaster?

Also- what brake setting would be best to start out with- it doesn't give any recommendation in the manual. (it came with only one brake on). Or, is it just a trial and error thing that I should do in the back yard first?

BTW- do you fill up the spool to the top or leave a little space? And what type of knot do I use to start it on the spool?

Thanks in Advance
Kevin

[Bantam1]

I would suggest mono since it is more forgiving should you backlash. The braided line can be a real pain to pick out with a backlash.


I would start out with 4 weights on. Turn them on in an X manner. It will be trial and error until you find the right setting for the lure you are using and your casting style.

There will be a 45 degree angle on the spool lip. Fill the line even with that angle and you should be fine. See my quality Windows Paint drawing below...

[Kevinindel]

Thanks Bantam1--

Any brand that you can recommend?

Also, which type of knot do I use to secure the line to the DSV reel?

Thanks for the quick respons since I'm going to the store today to pick up some line.

Kevin

[KG2]

i too am new to baitcasters couldnt quite afford a curado but i gota a 4600 abu and am quite proud of it.
i got it spooled with 15lb clear blue stren, and it has worked well. its not too light so it doesnt backlash because if that but can also get a good amount of line on it.

Kevin

[Kevinindel]

Forgot to ask this very simple question regarding baitcasting reels--

Do you push the spool-release button as you cast or do you push it first and hold it with your thumb and release the cast?

[FishEmGigEm]

Push it first, cast, and guide it with your thumb.

[Bantam1]

I really like Izorline XXX. I'm not sure if they carry it in your area or not. Berkley Big Game (green) is another decent line.

[Kevinindel]

Thanks for your advice- I really appreciate it!!

I'll let you know how things go with my first cast in a little while.

Kevin

[Kevinindel]

Well--my first baitcasting experience didn't go as good as I expected.

I had the 4 centrifical brakes on and the spool speed set to just allow the test
1/2oz weight to slowly drop to the ground.

Result-- 2 seperate birdsnests (that I was able to clear up after about 20 min).

But the good news is that I think with a little more practice, I will be able to cast the new Curado 100DSV a little farther than the 45 feet that I was able to obtain using a 5 foot rod. (I haven't received the Krister 6'6" rod yet. Maybe that will help to get more distance.

QUESTIONS: What is the most cast distance I can hope to achieve with this
Curado and Krister rod set-up. What distance do most of you get?

And-- do you always have to use your thumb to stop the spool from birdsnesting? or, is it just in the settings?

Thanks
Kevin

[KG2]

i do a little of both, but im using a 7ft light action popping rod so its a little easier, i know this may seem like a dumb question but did u adjust that little knob on the side? you may wabt to set it heavy and you wont be able to cast realy far but less backlashes, thats how i was able to learn, but im still far frfom cast a 1/16oz jighead farrrr