[OldDiver]

Hello all, I've been lurking for quite a while and finally had reason for my first post/question. I'd really appreciate some input on respooling these reels. I am thinking of going to spectra with mono or flouro but is it worth it for the extra line capacity, etc ? Here is a list of the reels that I need to respool; TLD 20/40 Star has had Berkely 25 lb mono. I mostly use this for light trolling, light jigging and the occasional cast. TLD 25 has had Berkely 40 mono. I use this the same as the TLD Star but for bigger fish locations. 6/0 Special has had 50 lb mono. Used for heavier jigging and trolling on a "roller" rod. I fish mostly Baja. BLA and south on the Cortez / MAG and south on the Pacific side Thanks for any advice !!

This post edited by OldDiver 06/03/2008

 

[Tom H]

Spectra does add line capacity, but also cuts down on respooling costs in the long run.

JMHO, if you are happy with the line capacity on these reels with mono, then stick with it. If you want cost savings in the long run, then go with spectra.

JMHO, some reels just ask for spectra as it can make them easily fish heavier line classes. Some reels are best left to their rated line and capacity. It's hard to type exactly what I mean by this. I guess the best way would be a Penn 500 with 30#, leave it just mono, no real benefits except cost savings. An Avet LX, add 300yds of 65# spectra and fish the reel up to 50#. Acutate B2665 add 65x500 or 80x300 and fish the 80x300 to 60# or even a light 80#. All reels are about the same size.

Hope this helps a bit.
Tom

 

[mcrae]

Spectra will allow you to increase the line capacity of your reels.Meaning you can spool more yards of line and increase the pound test of the line.However,the question to ponder is can the reel handle the use of a smaller diamter line that breaks at a much higher pound test. Through the use of spectra the reels you fish 30 lb test on you can now fish 65lb test,but unless the reel is constructed very well you may over tax the reel.The way to avoid this is to use lighter lb test spectra. If you don't over tax your reels spectra may be a good choice for you.
One last thing when spectra tangles...it is a beast to untangle.
Hope this helps

 

[OldDiver]

I guess I should come clean and admit that the reason my TLD's need respooling is that I have been practice casting out in our field and occassionally cutting out tangles ! I AM getting better. (I have to keep telling myself that !)

After I almost got spooled out on the 20/40 by a 35 lb YT on full drag I thought maybe more line capacity. I love the light reel even if the drags aren't much,(anyone know how to increase the drag on these ?)

The TLD 25 seems fine for 40 lb but maybe I should try spectra on one reel to see the casting difference ?? Is it a big difference ?

I mostly use the 6/0 for trolling and jigging. It's my largest reel for now and I was thinking about going to 80 lb spectra for more strength and more capacity. Does this seem like a reasonable move ??

 

[chinito]

I would personally step up line size on all the reels

20/40 fish 30 lb topper with 50 lb spectra that will give you enough line

tld 25 has no problem taking 50 lb. i have fished 60 on mine but thats pushing it. put 80 lb spectra on it

6/0 fish 80 lb. you can tighten the drag really good. If it spools you, then it deserves to get away.