Ask one question, and you'll get 100 different answers... and all of them may be correct!
Best way to learn is to find a crew that'll take you out. Watch and learn. And like most of my friends, we like strapping virgins into their first swordfish.
Don't assume anything. General rule of thumb: Everything is Bigger. Tackle, gear, weights, hooks, expense, etc... Swordfishing is a lot different than messing with mahi. More like giant catfish with a pointy nose. Ya don't need wire unless you plan to tangle with Mr. Mako.