Reeltherapy,
RT makes some very good and valid points that I agree with ( like that matters) line selection can very controversial as is light selection :lol: I apologize for my earlier brief post but I and not the silver finger tipped devil RT is
Witch ever system you choose try and stay with it on all your outfits it will cut down on tangles while trolling or drifting. I have personally used the Dacron-top shot method for over 20 years with great results I have just recently changed to JB Hollow Core, due in fact to conversations with RT and other members of this forum and I am extremely happy with the change. I currently am using the JB 130# rather than the 80 # spec. not because of cost but because of it larger diameter, much easier on the finger during retrieval of line.
Main line diameter and line capacity and stretch have always been a concern of mine, I try and achieve the highest capacity of line with least amount of resistance in the water while not giving up on line test. The mono top-shoot affords me a little stretch, the reason I choose Momoi I find it don't stretch as much and is more abrasion resistant than other brands I have used in the past.
Using the the JB-HC to a top-shoot with a wind-on leader all being loop connections allows us to be very versatile with our set ups. It's not uncommon for us to troll for dolphin in the afternoon, Swordfish that night and run for yellow fin tuna in the AM with just the change of the wind-on's
The High-Viz line allows for good visual reference to where the lines are during the day and even more so at night making maneuvering the boat to the fish a whole lot easer.
The reason I use a top-shot is just a hold over from my trolling for tuna and wahoo. I tend to troll a bit faster than the norm, use a higher drag setting so when you have a boat speeding in one direction and a hot fish going in the other something has to give. The reason I use a higher drag setting as stated before is if the hook hasn't found a good purchase on a fish I want to know it now not one,two or even three plus hours into a Battle.
Wind-on's now here is one that get people going. I use them for three reasons, first Its a safety thing for me, it allows the angler to reel the fish to boat side for a grab and gaff or dart with no loose line coiled up on deck but I still have the option to wire the fish if need be. Second I can use shorter leaders on my baits and lures again keeping the pit clean when I have to clear lines in a hurry, and three it also makes storing the rigs allot easer.
I have just recently gone over to the dark side (damn I've got to get back in the sun I'm white as a ghost) so I am by no means a sword guru.....yet
. The one thing can share with you is when it comes to terminal tackle this is not the place to scrimp or get lazy,spend extra money it takes to buy quality products and taking the time to prig properly because your only as good as your weakest link
Like every one has said not one way works for everyone. This way works for me until I find something better and I am always looking.
Good luck and welcome to the Dark side of Life
