Don’t Get Sucked Into Using Braid To Fluorocarbon

Randy has a discussion based upon a lot of recent Subscriber questions on the disadvantage of using braid fluorocarbon Overstreet fluorocarbon.…#fluorocarbon #fishingline #bassfishing #bass #fishthemoment #fishing #bassmaster #toyotaseries #bassmasteropens
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[@jaredkirk2500]

If Seagar would like to sponsor me, I'd use strait fluorocarbon for the convenience. But braid to anything leader will always be more affordable.

[@Meverett38]

100% agree on this. I changed over to to flourocarbon on all of my setups except my crank and jerkbait setups.

[@robertbrost7777]

And if Megabass wants to sponsor me, I'll use 6 lb line with a 110! LOL

[@meyouknow1226]

I'm a straight line guy. I use Pline floroclear no braid for me.

[@scottleggejr]

@@robertbrost7777 20 of everything, please. A couple dozen P5 destroyers will work for a year 😉

[@Maverick4841]

I like the high vis braid(yellow) with the use of spinning tackle as my finger is not on the line to detect a bite, therefore I can see the line move. For me most bites come on entry and fall of the Ned Rig. You are correct it is more affordable, every little bit help if you have multiple rods which we all do.

[@joematty1353]

I've been fishing for 45 years And i never used a leader in my life. I only use Braid all the time and never had a problem. I've cought so many fish in my life time and will never change what works.

[@spintowinstradic6067]

After years of fishing mostly with spinning rods for smallmouth, I couldn’t disagree more. Braid ti fluoro offers multiple advantages over straightfluoro. First-superior line management. Even the most carefully managed fluoro becomes unwieldy on a spinning rod over the course of a day. Second, much more sensitivity. Third, better strike detection with fluorescent braid. Fourth, much more cost effective. Fifth, I can cast farther without sacrificing line strength. I suspect those and other reasons are why smallmouth stars like Brandon Palaniuk, Taku Ito, etc. use braid to fluoro.

[@jimk4267]

I am with you. I deleted my post before sending. It read much as yours

[@ronthegunman5724]

Plus 1

[@valentinmalinin]

If braid to leader wasn't effective it wouldn't be recommended in wide array of techniques from ul fishing to GT fishing...

[@mogippa414]

I agree on all points. Yet, I recall Taku using straight 6lb test fluoro back in 2020 Elite Series at St Clair. My point is that some pros are not blindly using braid to fluoro. It depends on conditions of the field.

[@spintowinstradic6067]

Mogippa- totally agree. The conditions definitely matter. For some things like tubes, I won’t use braid because I don’t want to move the tube too much, especially in cold water.

[@twiggsherman3641]

I tried both. I prefer braid to fluoro. A spool of braid lasts me an entire season. Hell some reels have two or three year old braid on them. A spool of fluoro lasts me forever. I can run my reels much more loose, because braid is much easier to cast. With fluoro I need to tighten down my spool tension, with braid I just leave it completely off. There is a difference in sensitivity. The only downside is because I don't like my knot being on my reel, I tie a lot of leaders, but that's about it. However people want to fish is up to them, but braid to fluoro makes more economic sense to me, and gives me more advantages then disadvantages.

[@beyondfshn2844]

Lol 3 year old line that’s no good line bud so your sensitivity is not helping you and that’s false anytime you run two different lines less sensitive braid has no memory no stretch so you loose sensitivity only way max sensitivity with line is run just that one type of line at the right lbs time change that line if three years old just saying line goes bad all it and after that long it’s bad so your sensitivity is not accurate

[@twiggsherman3641]

@@beyondfshn2844 lol cool story bud. Braid lasts forever, it has no memory. It's not going to start backlashing after a few months like fluoro. The only issue is either fading or fraying. You trim the frayed parts when you tie your leader, and braid isn't milk, it doesn't just "go bad". As for sensitivity, braid to leader provides better sensitivity then straight fluro. A six foot leader doesn't stretch nearly as much as having 30 yards of it casted out. I don't care what you say, I've tried both, and know the difference. My sensitivity is much better then running straight fluoro, and this setup works for me. If you want to run straight fluoro, have at it.

[@beyondfshn2844]

@@twiggsherman3641 and to each is there own but listen to what you say yes braid has no memory no play or give there for less sensitivity there’s more to it then opinion though

[@dormie9]

@@twiggsherman3641 logic wins again

[@twiggsherman3641]

@@beyondfshn2844 slack braid will have no sensitivity. If there's no slack, braid will give better sensitivity. Adding a fluoro leader helps add sensitivity to the braid when you're slacklining, because of gravity. If you're using a wacky worm, your slack line still has pressure on it from hanging down in the water as it sinks, so movement on the fluoro will translate through the braid, better then just having braid by itself. However if you just toss a bait out there and let it lay on the bottom, with no pressure on the line at all, straight fluoro will be better then straight braid. Opinion is which one you prefer, facts are what I just laid out.

[@Antznewz]

there are some very real advantages to braid-fluoro. I have spent time with both. -you get more sensitivity -better hook penetration, especially when fishing deep. -braid lasts a long time and it extends the life of a fluoro spool -its very versatile. If you need to switch between 8, 10, 12 pound line, you can do it no problem and you don't need to carry extra spools. This is my system and I feel that it is pretty optimized. If anybody has any suggestions to further optimize it, feel free to reply. I tie a blood knot with 8 loops on each side, cinch it down, and give it a few pops to make sure it wont break. It's a skinny knot, it goes through the guides easily. I like to use a 15 foot leader, which in my experience has always been longer than the visibility distance. If you're fishing shallow, you can use neon to see your bites and have the braid be totally out of the water. I like to use dark green braid when fishing deep if I have it on hand, or when fishing a fluke or floating worm.

[@michaelangelo6947]

The advantage of using different leader line strengths and preventing the need of having additional spools is a very good point indeed.

[@areddfishing7473]

Man Randy be wild sometimes. If that was the case then we wouldn’t see 100+ pounds of smallmouth on spinning rods with braid to fluro.

[@adamlebeck9482]

I think he just puts out things I disagree 100 percent so I'll watch and say he's wrong.

[@kcroyal5249]

@@adamlebeck9482 the guy has fished more than the 3 of you combined..thats why he cashes cheques and you sit at home and watch his videos that make him money

[@teamflanneloutdoors5631]

My home River is typically crystal clear and I've noticed no decrease in hookups switching from flour to mono

[@adamlebeck9482]

@@kcroyal5249 there's more than one way to skin a cat. I just think flouro is a pain in the ass and never noticed any benefit from using it as a mainline. Also I watch while I'm at work. So you have to pay me to watch it lol. If I wanna learn I watch tacticalbassin.

[@rickburke5185]

You offer a lot of opinions without backing it up with anything factual. I'm old, old school and have always used mono or braided, no leader. I , by and large, am a jig or worm fisherman. I plan on using braid to mono this season for the first time. I think the added sensitivity over just mono or just floro could be a huge bonus. Do you feel the same about braid to mono. Keep up the good work. I have gotten some great ideas from you. I don't always gave to agree with your technics.

[@fishingthe262]

I’ll start running straight fluoro when Seaguar starts sending me the bulk spool for no charge 😂😂

[@davidharris4030]

I wouldn’t do it then because it simply isn’t as good as braid to flouro leader

[@bassgurujim]

Totally disagree. Never had a failure with the Alberto knot as the fluoro to braid connection. Hate the inevitable line twist from a day of fishing straight fluoro. I use a 12-15 foot leader which is plenty to last a trip or two. I also have over 50 years fishing experience. I started using fluoro to braid about 5 years ago. I'll never go back. As I've gotten older being able to see the his-vis braid is a plus. Come on Randy, maybe its time you gave it another try. This time with an open mind.

[@jimrichards1798]

“I don’t know if Gary Yamamoto has ever lost a bass in his life.” There’s pretty much the ultimate fishing compliment. I hate hearing the knot go through the guides as well. I cringe virtually every time. Much respect for your opinions on everything.

[@heavenshound6775]

On my finesse setup I utilize braid backing to a fluoro mainline/leader that is about 2-3 cast lengths. Leaves me enough fluorocarbon to retie a bunch before i need to add more fluoro and I save big $$$ in the long run. If you fill the spool with straight fluoro and get bad line twist you’ll lose twice as much line as someone who uses braid backing.

[@quentintincher8323]

Would love to see you and Matt Allen from tactical bassin sit down and have a conversation about this. He's a big advocate of running braid to leader, people trust his advice because he's almost always catching big bass in their videos, and so much of the things discussed on the tactical bassin videos have worked well for me

[@jtotherog]

Matt HATES braid to floro. Be stresses this over and over again. Tim uses it on his finesse setup. They have videos where they say they've tried certain types of FC for leader material but as a general rule...matt hates it. Braid to mono🤙

[@FiciousCritik]

@@jtotherog "Braid to mono🤙"

[@jtotherog]

@@solaydbak ill send a link

[@jtotherog]

@@solaydbak kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYaUdHSsm717o7c around the 10:20 mark he talks about leader materials. 🍻

[@FranklinHicks-qs4gs]

@@jtotherog link !!!!

[@bryancapes2859]

Hmmmm. I am guessing your flouro sponsor will love this video!

[@law1831]

The only thing I like braid to fluorocarbon for is the brightly colored lines can act like a strike indicator for baits like weightless worms, flukes, etc

[@mikegardiner3934]

I actually feel braid to floro outweighs floro only. Like you stated above, I love being able to see the strike indicator when using weightless worms around docs. The other is further casting. And lastly is sensitivity. now I will agree with Randy on one point for sure… Straight Floro no doubt will get you more bites, but if your leader is long enough, I don’t know how many more bites that is. :-)

[@entertainmentguys1]

I was thinking about that myself, I sometimes use 12 to 18 foot leaders. Can the bass sense that?

[@Charactermatters650]

Love your vids - they have either taught me something new or solidified how I fish now. On this topic though, I part ways for sure. In my 60’s - fishing hard for many years now (shore, boat, kayak, drift boat - fresh and salt - all forms - hand fished as a kid - all rods - all types of fishing - fly/bass/surf/spey/trolling salt and fresh, on and on - I use mono and fluoro for a few applications and of course fly line as well (all types - river and lake - flaoting/sinking etc). But for much of my fishing for several years now, I run braid to fluoro for most of my fishing (spinning/baitcast/surfcast and trolling). I wish I had done it 20 years ago! I catch more fish - I have less hassles with line memory etc and my bait is in the water more often and for longer - I use a uni to uni knot mostly and have not had problems - for salt an FG knot - braid to fluro is also cheaper in the long run, but that is just bonus - it catches more fish because I have my line in the water more and for longer - I re-tie less and lose no more fish than the many years I did without it. As for no stretch? I use spinning reels with good drag and set it correctly for my target fish - baitcasters not much of a need for drag (powerfishing). I am not a young guy and I am all in with braid to fluoro.

[@barryhawthorne7532]

I haven’t had much luck spooling fluoro on my spinning reel. Even dragging behind boat and reeling in wet I still had loops falling off the spool. I prefer yellow braid to fluoro mainly for visibility and sensitivity. I use an Alberto knot for the braid to fluoro and a Palomar knot for fluoro to hook. I can retie the entire rig fairly quickly but I practiced to get the speed up. I’ve used it from floating worms to shaky heads. I do check my Alberto knot regularly and retie it when I think it’s weak or frayed. I only use this on spinning rods. My baitcasters are full fluoro. Just my preference. I enjoy you videos.

[@jimk4267]

I agree with you the Alberto has been a fantastic knot for me. Much better than the famed FG

[@imadumas2]

Randy does raise some excellent points - seems to me the best approach is to be aware of all the pros and cons of any particular setup and factor those in when making the decision of what setup to use based on the specific conditions/application at the time.

[@thomasdavis399]

I’m a kayak guy and prefer braid to fluorocarbon on my spinning setups, here’s why: 1. More versatile, I can switch up leader lb test or just cut the leader off and use the braid for poppers/small top water. It allows me to carry 1 medium light spinning rod and 1 medium spinning rod to cover all my finesse applications. 2. Longer casts 3. Cheaper 4. Easier hook sets, I reel set on everything, I don’t Jack em

[@fishingva9946]

Yep. I didn’t put the ease of changing leader poundage in my comment but your 100% correct. I think randy doesn’t understand you can have a 50 ft leader if you want.

[@datruthhurts3984]

Also,zero line twist.I hate that

[@docbrown9054]

Sometimes in a yak too on a big fish you'll hit em and your boat moves further than the fish 😆

[@jhorgos12]

Same

[@jthomas7377]

As far as it being cheaper I put a mono backing on my reels about half the spool then I put my fluorocarbon on after that so I get 2 reels out of 200 or so yards of fluorocarbon. Cause basically a spool is like $20+ of the invizx.

[@bucknuts8824]

The reason I'm going to run braid to flouro this season is only because of line management. I spool flouro correctly, but I still get line twist, and it doesn't come off the spool well. I'm interested to see if the sensitivity is better as well.

[@fishingramingram5407]

Don't always agree with everything you say on you videos but they do spark a lot of conversation. Also one of the biggest problems in the country today is, if you don't see things my way then you are wrong. No room for different opinions are points of view and no respect for someone with a differing point of view. Keep up the videos and wither I agree or disagree with you, I'll still listen to your ideas and know that its your opinion and respect that.

[@Prentis1]

I'm one to agree with you. Around 4 years ago I converted around 75 percent of my gear to braid and leader. After 4 years of experiencing the pros and cons of braid to leader. Most of my biggest fish above 7 pounds were caught on straight mono or flurocarbon. I love the greater sensitivity of braid to fluro in the right situations. A lot of my rods have small to micro guides which I hate having the knot going through. To make a long story short. Everyone has to experience the pros and cons for them selves. Just part of the learning process. And for many, that learning process takes longer unless someone like yourself points it out to them. Keep up the great videos Randy.

[@DCmite1]

i did the same.....2 years of seagur smackdown to invizx and now i am back to straight invizx and i am much happier

[@rlsoutdoors997]

I agree 100% Randy & I’m just a weekend warrior. Hardly an amateur!! 😂 I will say this though. Taking a black sharpie or permanent black marker & simply blacking out about 10 ft of braid from your hook is legit!!!! The legend Roland Martin has a video about doing that to your braid so you know it’s legit!!! Good stuff!!!!

[@ejzabojnik834]

Why do you need to make your braid black? Don't tell me that now since it is black, the fish can't see it.... Have you ever caught a bass on a black worm??? Bass can see the color black. Some use a green magic marker on their braid....Bass are caught all the time on watermelon and green pumpkin color worms all the time.

[@LeonStjames]

@@ejzabojnik834 you only looked at the color and took every other variable out of the equation. It does work to color the line because of the thinner diameter( than a worm). Now, that is only for visibility and water clarity matters. Another thing is that braid can make a sound in the water. I mean its up to everyone's preference.

[@fishingva9946]

Braid to flouro saves so much money. The only down side is learning to tie the knot, which is easy (fg knot or my preferred blood knot). You can spool 50% braid on your reel (jerkbaits) 80% (spinner baits and chatterbaits) or 95% (flipping). You can make it to where no braid comes out when you cast just like straight flouro. The downside to straight flouro is memory and having to change the line more often. Not to mention high vis braid help detecting bites. Braid to flouro is far superior once you have the basics down, especially for someone trying to save money.

[@jhorgos12]

The money savings alone is worth it, but I don’t use it for any moving baits. Love it for jigs, t rigs etc.

[@fishingva9946]

When I fish my moving baits I don’t have braid coming out. So I am essentially fishing straight flouro.

[@jayjiang]

Just a quick question, saving money meaning using more fluoro than braid? Does cost of fluoro less than the the cost of braid? I am curious how long of fluoro do other fishermen commonly use? I do have problem of the tight knot hitting the guides and causing wind knots often (double uni). Some people said shorter leader line helps. Would love to know your opinion?

[@slowjamcdub]

Get rid of the leader and just fish the braid. I guarantee you you’ll catch more fish!

[@Andrewtripp1]

Thanks I appreciate the willingness to provide thoughtful information that doesnt just follow convention.

[@randywunderlich6315]

Great content in this video Randy, thanks. I’m just getting started with braid, is it a problem with braid pulling into itself (on the spool) when you set up on a bass?

[@AlexanderBronskyFishing]

All of my spinning rods are braid to monofilament. You can cast far and the braid lasts 1-2 seasons, sometimes more. I like the braid because even on far casts I get a good hookset and the mono is good for being a shock absorber and stretches a little if the fish dives by the kayak. It also helps keep them hooked even if my drag isn't set right. I can be versatile with this setup and just cut the leader and use the braid for topwater. Allows me to bring less spinning rods on the kayak and more bait casters. Also, far less wind knots.

[@Antznewz]

braid to mono? this man is a SAVAGE.

[@JewportMenthols]

I use braid to mono as well, I don't see enough advantages to flourocarbon to justify the extra money and mono is miles more durable.

[@ww3photography]

Timothy mono floats, flouro sinks

[@JewportMenthols]

@@ww3photographywhen the lure sinks so does the mono believe it or not

[@ww3photography]

@@JewportMenthols if your running a crank or jerkbait it won't dive nearly as deep

[@dhjhawk]

Go Randy! Loved this video! I dont use braid to fluorocarbon for the same reasons. I'm straight fluorocarbon, straight braid, or straight mono (topwater). That knot is an extra risk i dont want and couldn't stand it going through the guides. With straight braid, I color the first couple feet black with a sharpie.

[@danielhedrick9917]

Comments are very interesting on this. I think it is interesting the delineation of braid to fluoro leader versus braid backing to fluoro. I think what Randy is describing is the braid to leader, not the backing situation... but I can't speak for him. With the leader setup, I see the same arguments and both sides as Randy lays out. It does seem that maybe casting distance, lack or stretch, ease of swapping to straight braid or lighter leader, lack of line twist all would be good reasoning for certain fishers... all depends on the particular person. I'd like to add in though the cost factor and the sensitivity of braid. If I get more bites with straight fluoro, but I can't tell I am getting them... then it does me no good. In part adding braid to fluoro leader may make up some sensitivity in a cheaper combo that many of us recreational fishers must use.

[@bassingwithawesomejohnson3202]

Thanks for giving it to us straight sir!! That’s one of the things I appreciate about you!! Great video!!!

[@TrueNorthOutdoorAdventures]

Well Bro... you've made a believer out of me. I've spent so much time wading through ALL the info, pros & cons etc. I've had a couple setups this year straight Fluoro. Hundreds of Largies & Smallies later, I'm just loving it! And no more stress or inconvenience of messing w/a Leader. Thank You!

[@mikek3638]

Do you use line conditioner on your fluoro? I find it really helps. Curious as to your thoughts.

[@joshuaswanson3068]

If you recommend a single line what type is your recommendation fluorocarbon? Mono ? Braid ? And why ? Also what lb test recommend?

[@jd72701]

Awesome perspective! Great content.

[@TKOSNGR]

I do feel like I have more sensitivity in my finesse presentations since I started using braid to fluoro. I use high vis yellow for my main line and I can see what's happening with my bait a lot better too. I do prefer straight mono or fluoro when I'm throwing small swim baits or any other moving bait too light for a casting reel. I think the stretch helps me land more fish in those situations.

[@jamesfuller8159]

Thanks for your time to help us hard heads with the wealth of knowledge that you give us! GOG bless you!

[@bigdawg580]

Hey Randy rantalot, how long have you actually tried braid to flouro? From your dissertation about getting more bites it seems you made your mind up before trying it?

[@fishingva9946]

I believe he tried it but I also believe he was not running the system right. You can’t just put an 8ft leader on every rod. Each technique determines how long your leader is.

[@ScruffyCityFishing]

Love your channel, but I think this is your preference.. and that’s fine. 5 of my top 10 biggest bass have come on braid to fluro. The key for me was to practice the knots a ton so I can retie quickly. Braid last much longer on my spinning reels, it doesn’t tangle as often, and I can see the bite better. I do still have one rod rigged straight fluro for fishing finesse baits deep. The braid will slow the fall down too much at times.

[@mikefromoh2925]

I just like being able to see my hi via line easily. I make fewer mistakes and helps a lot in strike detection on the initial fall. Even in fluoro I use Berkeley Vanish Transition or colored fluoro.

[@malcolmzoll7613]

Randy I got a question off the subject of line , but do you see a big difference in using a 6’6” rod instead of a 7’ or bigger rod thanks for you input

[@jedmetheny3710]

I would love the opportunity to debate you on this. I have a couple reasons why it's beneficial. 1. 15- 20 foot longer cast 2. I save an incredible amount of money on line not wasting half my spool of flouro. I respect what you're saying but I believe you are conflating two situations(backing vs. leader). I don't ever hit the knot or even come close to the knot that connects the braid to the floro. If you do you have too much braid and you need to remove some. You are thinking that people are talking about using fluoro as a leader on their braid. That's something different than some are talking about. Like you, I have used this technic for a decade and it's tried and true. I have saved hundreds on not wasting floro/mono. Your confusing leader with backing. Ther is a difference. I've paid for every lure that I own and every foot of line that I've ran on my reel. That's the experience I'm bringing to the table. You don't have to fish tourneys to be experienced.

[@fishingva9946]

Yep. So much money saved every season. Will never have straight flouro on any reel except maybe deep crank but when when I could spool 50% braid?

[@mikeylikesit1831]

That was my question I'm not an expert by any means but is it really a leader if your main line never leaves the spool. I would call that backing and I think it's a totally different conversation. Just my opinion I don't know.

[@woosa42]

@@mikeylikesit1831 - Yeah, but that backing will last forever tho, which makes it even more cost effective.

[@walleyechannel]

I only agree with the last sentence because it is so true. But I would say I can buy two spools of Bass Pro Shops 10 lb clear blue mono and have new line every week. I can get the distance because I downsize and have extremely efficient equipment. I can still match bite to bite and land fish to fish because I know what I’m doing. I’ve been doing it for forty years and I know the capability of my line and most importantly the rod and still do it cheaper than braid. I do love a little stretch and believe it or not…I want everything to slip just a bit. The line and even my reel is set so it slips. Then I can jack the shit out of them and most of the time they swallow it. It’s funny how so many people live by pros words with doing the homework themselves.

[@leepao6302]

So true, fishing is becoming more expensive every year these days

[@nathansmith5331]

Love your videos but I disagree, I finally started fishing braid to flouro for lighter techniques and I love it. Casts better, more sensitive. Stronger

[@ktulucalls]

I listened to your previous video on this topic and considered your points, but I concluded that I like the extra casting distance with braid to mono on spinning gear (tied with double uni). The only reason I prefer to have that advantage is because I don't have a boat. Reading some of the other comments, I also agree that I've noticed it's quite nice to spool the braid once and it lasts forever (so long as you keep inspecting it for any fraying), and using a hi-viz line color is nice to be able to keep track of where your lure is. I understand that such a setup may cost me some bites from bass, but bass are not my target every time. Using straight fluoro is something I haven't tried yet - partly due to the cost of fluoro vs other line types, and partly because I didn't want to learn a new set of knots just for fluoro (maybe I'm ill-informed, but I had heard/read from a few sources that the standard set of knots used with mono don't always work as well with fluoro). Having said all that, I'm not married to my current habits and I'd be willing to experiment with straight fluoro.

[@funkymojo111]

For cost, it is cheaper for me to go braid fluorocarbon for many reasons. I can use the leftover spools from the re-spooling of reels. I don't mind retying leaders because I need the practice anyways. Many years ago, I did straight fluorocarbon on a spinning reel and it was a mess; a waste of expensive fluorocarbon.

[@Owl4909]

do you like straight mono for anything ? you probably covered it already if so whats the title. love u show

[@Fishing_with_Bas]

For fishing from the boat: I totally agree. But Fishing from the bank… when you need distance braid to leader is mandatory

[@jamesyoung7382]

This was a good video well done. I started using straight mono again for experiments.

[@darrenmoore2794]

Totally agree! Never had trust in leaders. I do use braid as a backer and it makes a difference I believe. My knot never comes off the spool. Thoughts?

[@heavenshound6775]

great idea, ott defoe uses that exact same technique and so do I. Seems to be the best of both world’s because none of randys gripes with braid to fluoro apply to braid backing.

[@Jondantic]

I use braid to fluorocarbon and have for years now but do appreciate the point. When I take a nube fishing with me I set them up with straight mono. Great honest video

[@georgezink8256]

Thank y’all for sharing

[@Luddhabuddha]

I use leaders mostly for the cost effectiveness, I can use the same braid for 2 or 3 years just tying on new 20 to 30 foot leaders. Obviously your situation is different than mine so, it's a bit apple's to oranges but, it works pretty good for me.

[@erikecklund8481]

When I really started bass fishing I was using straight braid because I was fishing from the bank. Once I got a boat I tried using Fluoro but it feels like fishing with a rubber-band. I use braid on all my rods. Fluoro leader on most.

[@jetcat132]

I Switched to braid and fluoro leaders from straight mono about 9-10 years ago, and doubt I’m going back. The sensitivity and cast distance I get with braid can’t be matched, at least for my fishing, and a well tied FG knot has never failed me. I have experienced break offs with fluoro, but again, tie your knots correctly and that can be minimized. Fluorocarbon also gives me the abrasion resistance I need in some situations, besides the low visibility. I run straight braid for heavy flipping, pitching, and frogs. As far as shortening leaders due to reties, I live with it because the pros out weigh the cons for me. It’s a matter of preference. If I was in the boat with Randy, he might convince me otherwise, but in my experience braid and fluoro is still the way to go.

[@mikek3638]

What fluoro do you recommend for budget, no budget, and middle of the road?

[@jbowron1]

Thanks Randy refreshing to hear a pros opinion on a much opined topic. I think I will take your advice!!

[@randyjamesrobertson]

awesome video! you are so right. reel sets have caught me more fish.

[@jeremyguenther6209]

I’ve tried both and I’ve caught fish both ways. 2 things to remember if you are gonna go straight fluoro. First put a decent amount of mono backing on. The backing will dig into the spool so you don’t have to worry about your line slipping and it will save you a ton of money because you won’t be wasting that expensive fluoro. 2nd thing is use light line, I only use 8lb or smaller on a spinning set up. With 8lb fluoro I can cast a mile and have no problems with memory or line twist. In fact I let my 7 year old daughter use my finesse set up a lot and she has no problem handling the fluoro. That being said if I you put 12-15 lb straight fluoro on a spinning setup it would be a nightmare for any angler. You will definitely be going for a trip down memory lane.

[@curtanschuetz3434]

I need to see bright line. What is your opinion on going with a flourescent mono with a clear flouro leader??

[@manujaen3999]

*This was my first time using Braided line and I was happy with the product **enjoyable.fishing** recommend it's held up well and I have no complaints. Would buy again.*

[@Rage1732]

I agree with you on this. I’ve never experienced any significant advantages to a flouro leader. Plus, being an advocate of braid, I find the strength of the braid helps me in a lot of snag situations and definitely is a plus for a solid hook set. I tend to whip my casts so I have lost a few nice lures just on the cast when my double uni contacts a guide and the 12 lb flouro snaps sending my brand new lures bye-bye. Embarrassing and probably my fault but that was the last straw. I just find it easier and less stressful not having to worry about extra knots and losing lures. It’s one or the other but no more leaders.

[@TomMendoladrums]

Excellent advice!

[@chrisboyd1408]

Thanks for sharing these tips. It is helpful

[@josephlewis1632]

Great context thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@mindyvansickle3527]

I've caught my biggest bass 9.3 pounds and 7.12 pound largemouth on straight braid on a glass rod

[@sebastiansiebiedzinski7460]

I’m excited about your jig. Definitely I will buy it, can’t wait. Thank you

[@jasondalton3507]

Ive been experimenting with the different lines for quite some time now and i would say the most important factor in getting bites is fishing where the fish are. Your line means nothing without fish being present. Tight lines!

[@joelsweeney9049]

You definitely bring up some pretty good points but I find that my braid to fluro is way more sensitive. I can notice a huge difference. Not to mention it saves me hundreds of dollars a year. I just maid the switch 2 years ago and it was hard for me to learn the knots but now I got it wired. I remember when I was a kid flouro wasn’t even around. I would re spool every other time if every time I fished.

[@darrellwiller2484]

This a question, I’m retired and fish in northeastern Wisconsin. T I fish for bass, crappie, and blue gills. There are a lot of northern in the lakes up here. I have use mono, floral, but getting a lot of break offs & bit offs by northern. For panfish what size braided line would be good??

[@darkside2329]

Thank you Randy - would you consider doing a video sometime on how you prefer to spool straight floro?

[@shortfatdude3406]

I find straight flouro on my finesse setups have worked better for me. But I do prefer braid to leader on my baicasters. Nice video. Informative as always. Keep up the good work.

[@LeonStjames]

me too. thats what i truly prefer.

[@robertbrown7258]

I agree sir!!! Thanks for sharing your knowledge 🤙

[@tommkc]

you agree with his sponsor? lol

[@ovechkinata]

Keep on with these informational videos randy! I have made the change as well, and realized that spending the extra money is worth it in the end for using straight fluorocarbon. The only thing I noticed is some reels are meant for straight braid, a lot of lew’s reels are “braid ready” and I noticed they tangle much more with fluoro vs other reels. Now the only time I use braid to Fluoro is when I’m trout fishing and I’m using my bass rods and don’t want to spook the fish with braid or heavy fluoro.

[@rubenakacoolerlid2314]

Man, I'm so happy i found your channel. You have removed a lot of stress this time of year on line selection and respooling reels getting ready for the fishing season here in Wisconsin, Thanks for the useful information

[@randyblaukatintuitive]

Great to hear!

[@user-vq4wk9or9t]

i totally agree with you from florida i have always used a braid to brand name mono and i do very well with it just always check the leader after a catch

[@jeffeefore3782]

Id like to hear on your opinion on mono vs copolymer vs floro. In my opinion mono is the best its got great knot strength its not stiff and could its cheap. I know it stretches a lot, but my fix to that is using a lighter wire hook. Please respond to this as I'm very interested in your opinion

[@jasonstanley5818]

Appreciate the insight. I’ve always had issues with fluorocarbon acting weird on spinning gear. Maybe I need a different lesson on fluoro on spinning reels…..

[@yep.fishing]

What about straight through braid? If you don't need to abrasion resistance because you're not fishing structure then why not go something half the diameter?

[@AmateurFloridaInshoreSportsman]

I agree. It's also cheaper to just use one particular fishing line and no weak links. I love your wisdom and insight. Thank you

[@donpadawan]

Rule #1 is use 20+ feet of leader to get shock absorbency. A long leader puts a negligible amount of pressure on any knot you choose. A short leader is asking for problems. Setting the drag before and after hookset is crucial. Choosing larger diameter braid helps distribute pressure on the knot. I like the versatility of switching line/leader types. I seldom have any issues. If you get a knot or abrasion 40 yards into your straight Fluoro spool, the whole spool is now trashed. That is less likely to happen with braid. To each his own! Whatever you feel confident with is the right choice.

[@hectorhinojosa5168]

Hey Randy I like watching your videos because they are very informative. But I will admit I do use braid to leader. But it's only on my drop shot rod & my ned rig rod. I only use that technic for the sensitivity. I use 12 to 16 ft. Leaders & will disagree about the bass being able to see my braid. I fish highland Res. On the westcoast & clear clear water. So my leader is Pline Tactical Florocarbon & my bass are on bottom in 32 to 45 ft. & it works for me. I'm not hating but just wanna say I will always watch your videos!

[@tylerlove5903]

I have the same opinion you do about it. I tried braid to flrocarbon it was just to big of a hassle to connect the lines together and just like you was saying the leader gets to short. So I agree 100%

[@adammitchell3462]

I just recently set my rod up like this for the first time.... kinda wish I hadn't now but I'll find out. I appreciate your advice,no matter if I think it's right or not it's still appreciated

[@BasslivesmatterLLC]

The only time I use braid to floro is topwater spook and for deep cranking which it helps getting the lure down fast with less resistance. That stretch in straight floro causes me to fight the resistance of the water. The quicker it gets down the more I'm in the strike zone. On the spinning rod that high viz braid to super long floro leader thr high viz help me see the bite

[@SHH_Fishing]

This is my comment before I watch the video... Grab my attention instantly because I have noticed significant advantages running braid to fluro carbon for trout fishing... However, there are also some disadvantages as well.. Looking forward to the video .. Will post again after 🤣

[@johnshepherd5673]

Couldn’t agree more, great video 👌👌

[@saul78oldrite]

Dear Mr. Blaukat, due to a huge respect to you I have given it a try. I spooled 8 lbs Seaguar InvizX on my light spinning (2500 Shimano Vanford reel) and I have tried to go fishing some garfish and cods yesterday. It was windy and the reason I had to cast my maximums to reach the ridge that goes to the depth, I was really pushing on it... Caught some fish, but just after retying my lures after catching up 3 major bird nests. Spooled it right direction and even put the line in the water while spooling and spooled it holding a bit tight through the wet cloth. I have never had any problems like that with braid. Braid sits much better on the spool. It feels like it is easier to cast with a braid, because it doesn't give that sense if insecurity and fear to break it like a stretchy 8 lbs fluoro. Messed up 30 meters of line and I am getting back where it all started - braid, swivel or ring and leader. Kind regards! P.S. Being non pro angler I don't really care about few bites more, but just like everybody I am trying to keep it my budget and pain in the ass friendly!))

[@andrewhensen8638]

randy what do you fish on the great lakes? I never see or hear of anyone else using anything else than a braid to flouro. On the great lakes the longer cast you can make the better you are with how clear the water is.

[@agreen54]

I agree with all the disadvantages you talk about regarding braid to fluorocarbon. I fish tournaments with my son and we often fish tubes for smallies. He fishes straight fluoro and I fish braid to fluoro. We do about the same! I used to used straight fluoro but switched (before it was even something I saw the pros doing) for several reasons. The main reason is that my aging eyes can see it. My son is younger than me (Duh!) and he can see the fluoro. I can also feel what's going on better. Finally, I am a guide and I spend a lot less time untangling my clients' lines when they are using braid to fluoro (and yes, I know how to put line on a spinning reel, I've been doing it for more than 50 years). Love your channel!

[@fantasticleese]

Next time I get loops in my line I'll remember to drag out my line behind the $50,000 boat I don't have. Solid advice.

[@johncoopes1056]

It gives me way longer casts and up here in the Great Lakes gives me more bites with water visibility of 30’+. The extra 20’ I get is huge with spooky fish. Never had a knot or break off problem. Saves a ton of money also. With dirty water i understand braid is fine. With gin water in my opinion you either need straight FC or braid and a leader. Way cheaper to use a leader. My braid usually lasts 3 -4 years. I usually use a 10-12’ leader. If fish are hitting an Arig in water that has 20+ visibility then i am not too worried about my FG knot coming through the water. This is what i have noticed here around the Great Lakes. I think it really depends on the situation and water visibility I understand the fewer knots you have the better but I have never had that problem. It all comes down to confidence

[@tonyfinch9569]

I'm in Michigan and agree with all you stated. I've been using the fluoro/ braid with a double uniknot for the past 5 yrs and have not broke off a knot once.

[@1matthew1018]

Like your videos. Just getting into Bass fishing myself. I’ve been using Pline Flouroclear. Cheaper than the real stuff. Thoughts ?

[@jtotherog]

That is the real stuff lol. If it's fc its fc. Different brands behave differently tho for sure.

[@carlmaro]

Well G.D. A Randy Video I agree with 100% Keep up the great videos.....

[@funkymojo111]

Randy, continue doing what you do best. I will do what I can afford. I need the distance fishing from the bank, especially now that the fish have moved off shore into their deeper winter waters. Braid to fluorocarbon works for me since I only earn a $224 biweekly paycheck.

[@marcanzlovar72]

Randy, I appreciate your stance and firm opinion on this matter. The correct answer is that braid to leter, straight floro or mono all need to be tools used in angling. Also fishing has a lot of personal preference. Rods, reels, baits, knots etc. My personal preference is braid to leter. I could careless if I hear my knot through my guides. I don’t tie the FG knot. I tie double blood knot, it’s money. I also fish straight floro as well. Just depends my application. Keep up the great content and thanks again.

[@ChristiannTyler]

Question guys! I see a lot of people using roughly 60/40 braid to fluorocarbon.. I understand using a leader but what’s the point of just having all that braid under if you’ll never see it?

[@erichildreth7562]

I agree the extra knot is a weak link in the chain and it is not necessary. I like straight mono or braid when I am out. I have tried the braid to mono and it is ok but the extra knot I just don't trust. I have had bad luck with fluorocarbon line coming off the spool in a rat's nest on a spinning reel, I tried another brand and just put it on a baitcaster, learned how to spool it and it worked well for me. For my spinning rods I like straight mono like 8lb line works good for me for my weekend angler adventures but I plan on trying what you have recommended this year, it is just too cold out for fishing and things are frozen over at the moment. Your video is great and I love the hat and as always thank you!! :)

[@Fishingwithfaithoutdoors23]

Hi Randy, I’m getting taking off all my braid line except in my spinning reels and my frog rod. I had committed on this video how I liked braid with leader on my baitcasters but it’s coming off lol I had some issues with leader breaking at my braid to leader knot and I’m just done with it. 12lb Berkley mono and floro it is! I believe 12lb is all I should need I’ll get some 15lb in both just in case. I’m trying the big game brand of Berkley in mono , it’s ok but we will see. I’m liking the extra smooth Berkley.

[@markgrigsby6382]

I've fished it all over the past 45 years and I'm back to low viz quality mono except one rod with straight braid for jigs in dirty water. Just my 2 cents.

[@mikeylikesit1831]

I wanted to bring this up the last time this topic was brought up. I'm curious about your thoughts on backing. For example I'll spool up 10lb mono just enough to allow maybe 2 casts worth of flourocarbon. So my knot never comes through the the guides. And if I don't change the line out before it gets to the knot. I re-spool. I'm working on acquiring more rods and reels in the future.

[@jimk4267]

always use a braid for backing as it won't try to uncoil. Get the cheapest you can find or use old line

[@frankhunt5018]

Okay, I hear you loud and clear, when do you use straight braid?

[@grantwade3423]

I’ve wondered this exact thing and could never really find a good answer for it. One thing I have learned, is that my drop shot bite went to dang near zero when I switched to a braid to fluorocarbon setup. Thanks Randy!

[@SHH_Fishing]

All right, so here's my comment after... Great video! ! I appreciate your experience and time on the water.. I don't bass fish, and I also have hundreds of hours experience on the water... With trout, I believe the hookset is an issue... And using the braid to fluorocarbon allows you to change liters kind of like a tip. It on a fly rod... On Stormy Days I like to use a 6 lb... And on clear days I'll go as low as 1 lb for my fluorocarbon... Running a braided main line allows me not to have to take multiple rods... Having to retie your leader definitely can take you out of the game on a windy day 🤣🤣😢 Also, I don't run braid in the winter... I run straight fluorocarbon to the reel because the braid tends to beat up and freeze.. Mono has been tested and proven to catch fish, but I think fluorocarbon is an advancement in technology which is an upgrade in every way if used properly.. Also, I go by the motto... Fish what you can afford to fish..🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for the insight !!! Stay Motivated !!! Keep It Tight !!! Cpl. Hood 🦈🦈🦈

[@JLaird-ji1qr]

I used braid to fluro on all of my spinning setups for several years now……. This video is definitely thought provoking…… this season coming up I’m going straight fluro on some and keeping the broad to leader on others …… definitely going to test the theory