This is a STUNNING video!! I fish mainly J-Braid 8 strand, 20, 30 or 40 pounds on all my reels. However, i fish 18 pound fluorocarbon, 14 or 18 pounds, cammo colour when it is windy. Excellent channel. Thanks guys.
Great video. I fist started using the samurai flouro on my curado bfs and love it, but wasn't sure about the higher test versions. I will definitely spool up a couple of reels and try it out. Thanks!
I have a ton of success using Spiderwire Ultracast braid with a 6-8 ft leader of Sunline Sniper Invisible for anything besides frogging or heavy cover where I switch to 65lb Spiderwire Stealth. The line is low maintenance and casts great from my experience. Also, I don’t find that much of a difference when I’m fishing freshwater for Bass between just using a normal spool of fluoro or leader so I just buy a big spool and call it a day. However, I could definitely see how buying specific leader material when fishing around super snaggy areas, large fish (I live in NJ so the fish don’t get that big), or toothy fish like Pike/Musky would make a difference. Thanks for the video! You guys have some of the best content for fishing on YT in my opinion.
I replace my monthly because I fish daily and I have no mercy on my line. I typically follow the rules of thumb and switch my line and rod according to my application. Enjoyed the video like always 👍👍.
Love your discussions and content. Line makes a huge difference. Can be a nightmare or a dream based on one’s choices. Would be fun to fish with you guys and talk about tackle all day haha
I like braids with a core in them on casting reels. I know you are super critical of Berkeley because of all their rip off baits but the X9 braid is thinner than Maxcuatro at the same pound test, and because it has a core, it lays very well and doesn’t dig into itself. But for fluorocarbon, you can never, ever go wrong with Sniper!
It’s their only product I will use. Smackdown is definitely great for spinning. But on casting it is definitely one of the worst culprits for digging in.
I have used Defier D braid for the past 2 years on my lighter to medium spinning gear. It’s great!!! But is looks like it is discontinued now in 2023. Will there be a replacement from Sunline or are there other braids similar to its design from other manufacturers?
Thanks for the video Ben. My choice for fluorocarbon line is Seagear Red label. I also use Power Pro braid, and Berkeley Big Game mono. Works well for me, and so does the price. Appreciate you showing options. Definitely worth a try sometime. ✌🏻🎣
I really like using seagaur red label as a leader and invizX as a main line. Just got a 300 size reel to throw some glides and bigger wake baits. Would 20lb be strong enough to cover that style of fishing?
For long distance casting with my long (10-11ft) spinning rods (shimano Nessas) from shore, YGK xbraid X8 upgrade is my preferred braid (22 or 25lb test for 3k-4K size reels)...I wish you guys would get that back in stock again....
I started out running braid to leader for economical reasons- so I didn't have to respool a whole reel to change from mono to fluoro or whatever. But I have a tendency to over work baits- I'm not exactly graceful, to put it lightly. I'm thinking for bait like the jerk bait or anything where control is important- something that requires a little finesse- maybe I should change to straight fluoro or mono. Because it's true the braid to leader gives you more sensitivity and a more direct connection to your bait but, you have to remember that goes both ways. A small amount of input on the rod when running braid makes the lure respond immediately and sometimes to a much greater degree than we want or need it to. I think mono is probably my best option in this regard- lots of stretch- but I'm afraid it will muddy up the action of my bait to. I want a clean, crisp action on jerkbaits. Maybe fluoro is the right compromise.
One thing to note with Sunline is their line diameter is usually smaller in the higher test pounds then other brands, which means their break strength is much closer to the rated strength. I use 15 lb Berkley fluoro for jigs, but that's because I got 14 lb Sniper and it was breaking all the time so I thought it was junk. Then I finally realized that 15 lb Berkley is 0.015 inch, and 14 lb Sniper is 0.012 inch. 20 lb Sniper is 0.014 inch. So it's not the line that sucks, I was stupid and wasn't paying attention to the line diameter. Not all lines are rated equally.
I use an Alberto knot to connect my leaders but I’ve had a lot of trouble with the Alberto knot using the Sunline Defier braid. The leader keeps slipping off and I tie a good Alberto knot. Has anyone else had this issue with defier braid? Maybe it’ll work better with an Fj knot?
Great video. I have been curious on the Daiwa Fluoro. I oddly love Vicious pro elite. It’s Japanese made but who knows by who. Frog braid I like that Sunline flippin / froggin braid because it cuts weeds great. The sound sucks though.
For jerk bait fishing I would definitely use a fluoro leader. Helps the bait suspend better because it sinks (if that’s what they’re doing) and you get the “invisibility” of the fluoro. Hope this helps man
Definitely love my Sniper but I'm a convert to Tatsu, especially with their new 17 & 22# test. Seaguar Gold Label is my go-to for leader, as well. Surprised you didn't mention those lines much...
Guys need your opinion, 6’10 med im6 lews rod has a lot of bend compared to my other rods. Bfs zillion Lb8-10 fluro or 10lb braid to 8lb fluro for super light neds, lipless cranks and baby top waters I caught a 4lber on 8lb fluro rod felt great reel worked perfect but am I doing okay?????
I don't get that line. Tough to manage, doesn't cast well - I don't like it. I sell a bunch, so people must be having success with it, but I am not one of them.
Which line would you use on a spinning reel throwing 1/8 crappie jigs to get maximum distance but also in at least a 10 lb test? I fish below a dam and where the crappie are mostly at is off limits and a long cast is necessary to reach them. A weighted float works to get that distance but id rather have direct contact with the jig. I’ve always used power pro maxquatro.
Just do braid to leader bro use some 15 or 20 pound braid to a leader an its perfect for a light setup u can cast really well and won't have to worry about wind knots as much.
Living in South Korea, I use the JDM Shooter / Sniper (the same as the INVISIBLE you mentioned in the BFS segment) as my main FC and it is awesome. I do have a question though, what is the difference between Defier and Defier Armilo besides the color?
The Armilo is a low stretch mono, so it will perform similar to braid in terms of stretch, but in turn is stiffer. It’s basically an alternative to braid if you want to use a straight mono.
@@thehookuptackle_usa I used the Armilo 25lb for a season on bigger baits (3-4oz) and really liked it, availability here is almost non-existent though.
I’ve been a power pro guy since I started fishing seriously and I’m wondering how that compares to the braids you mentioned in this video. I guess I’m just curious if I should make the step to Max Cuatro or switch over to something else. Also I fish braid to leader on nearly all of my applications except jerkbaits and and crank baits so would that change anything when you’re selecting a braid?
If you’re willing to take the time to teach yourself how to tie it quickly the FG Knot is a great one. I have yet to have a single FG fail on me and it is an EXTREMELY thin and castable knot. You can put it through your guides all day and the knot holds true no problem so you can make your leader as long as you want.
@@davideakin3372 thanks man, I tie the fg also. I normally tie up all my rods before I head out to the water. I’ve been looking for a back up for the times when my leader runs out. Just something quicker, When I don’t have the time for the fg.
@@Mavejar520 As long as you can create some kind of tension in your mainline you can retie no problem. I bank fish so I feel the retying thing but if you practice the FG it should only take a few minutes
Clear fluorocarbon is virtually clear in open water, the issue with it is the color, it has a clear color to it, so when against a back drop (like grass, soot, weeds) that clear looks white compared to darker colors. It has a color to it, as you see it out of the water, but put it against something dark and you can clearly see the line outside of water. Same applies in the water, clear is clear, but it's not see through/invisible, and those darker colors do not pass through the line giving it a noticeable contrasting outline. I don't really see the point of dyed fluorocarbon, it will not be clear in open water, but it has less contrast against darker colors, to me (I too love camo) it doesn't make much sense. I would argue the pigment in the line causes it to not be clear in open water (not purchased myself) so I can't try for first hand experience but I imagine it would basically be like dark green mono. Than again that is kinda the argument for samurai fc hidden line, use it in water that is darker.
I'll use the Shooter for specific cases when I need max abrasion resistance. With the extra abrasion resistance comes a little stiffer line, so I usually side with easier casting.
It’s obviously great line - many people swear by it! It just doesn’t work for me. I don’t like the cast ability of it. But it might be perfect for you depending on how you cast and your set ups!
Im a huge fan of sniper but this year ive made the mistake of flipping with it, most grass lakes I am %100 okay but while fishing highland reserviors I am finding myself breaking off and damaging the line very often. Its true how incredible it is for moving baits and casting in general but the abraision resistance is not there in the 16 and 18lb. Deffinitly seeing the benefits in being so nichey with my line. Love videos like this! Not a crazy big seaguar fan but 20lb abrazx is the next experiment
As far as braid goes......I switched to Fins WindTamer and Fins XS and will never mess with anything else.....is so much better than any other. I also commend you on your dropshot video, when you broke down the hook selection....it connected the dots for me as to why I would have a ton of bites sometimes but wouldn’t hook up to a bunch. I’m absolutely killing it lately with it. I really appreciate it. Thank you.
@@bfsjunkie6115 well I guess I live in a region where there is ALWAYS a wind blowing, it also stacks up on my reel nice but you can feel and hear how it whips through the air compared to others, only other one like it I tried is the kastpro 13x braid. Plus I find with the pink color a lot of time I can forgo a leader and still hook up the same amount of fish......I tried so many lines this year to find the best and the sling braid, xs, and windtamer kind of a class of their own IMO.
Defier Armillo is the tits for straight mono! Well technically copo but yeah same sh!t. I love it because it is pretty much Defier minus 80% of the stretch.
I mess with the sun line, seaguar is a garbage, overpriced and over rated brand and I’ll choose a vanish over any seaguar product. I have tried and it’s not ever performed in a consistent manner with me. Lost me a tourney and embarrassed me in my hometown. I’d put more confidence in a preloaded box store combo preloaded with line than I ever would any premium reel with any seaguar product. Trash. They don’t care either.....tried to bring it to their attention......
@@BrockNessMonster1991 I was kinda in a pinch, went to Wally World and bought two different sizes of line. Both seaguar. Since they are considered an at least decent brand of line I spooled up with them.......very light baits just snapped on my 3rd or fourth casts.....it’s just never happened to me before......go to other rig spooled with a larger test, snap........I figured maybe it was me and gave it another shot couple days later snapped with a light hook set. Brought to their attention and they don’t give a damn. I was using high end setups and fish damn near everyday, not ever has a brand of line let me down like that at any price point.
That leaser tip with using the actual leader material instead of the FC sniper goes hard!!!
That diawa j braid is great stuff
This is a STUNNING video!! I fish mainly J-Braid 8 strand, 20, 30 or 40 pounds on all my reels. However, i fish 18 pound fluorocarbon, 14 or 18 pounds, cammo colour when it is windy. Excellent channel. Thanks guys.
Awesome break down, you pint out many of my concerns!
Great video. I fist started using the samurai flouro on my curado bfs and love it, but wasn't sure about the higher test versions. I will definitely spool up a couple of reels and try it out. Thanks!
I have a ton of success using Spiderwire Ultracast braid with a 6-8 ft leader of Sunline Sniper Invisible for anything besides frogging or heavy cover where I switch to 65lb Spiderwire Stealth. The line is low maintenance and casts great from my experience. Also, I don’t find that much of a difference when I’m fishing freshwater for Bass between just using a normal spool of fluoro or leader so I just buy a big spool and call it a day. However, I could definitely see how buying specific leader material when fishing around super snaggy areas, large fish (I live in NJ so the fish don’t get that big), or toothy fish like Pike/Musky would make a difference.
Thanks for the video! You guys have some of the best content for fishing on YT in my opinion.
I replace my monthly because I fish daily and I have no mercy on my line. I typically follow the rules of thumb and switch my line and rod according to my application. Enjoyed the video like always 👍👍.
Good tips! Thank you for watching!
Love your discussions and content. Line makes a huge difference. Can be a nightmare or a dream based on one’s choices. Would be fun to fish with you guys and talk about tackle all day haha
Sunline Machinegun Cast has become a favorite of mine. Great line.
That’s also a great line!!
Always loved the sunline sniper and assassin for my floro and leader and suffix or power pro for my braid to
I like braids with a core in them on casting reels. I know you are super critical of Berkeley because of all their rip off baits but the X9 braid is thinner than Maxcuatro at the same pound test, and because it has a core, it lays very well and doesn’t dig into itself. But for fluorocarbon, you can never, ever go wrong with Sniper!
You can keep both those braids. Glad it's working for you 👍
It’s their only product I will use. Smackdown is definitely great for spinning. But on casting it is definitely one of the worst culprits for digging in.
Does suffix 131 have a core?
Camo is awesome Ben. We dig it too.
Sweet 🤟
I have used Defier D braid for the past 2 years on my lighter to medium spinning gear.
It’s great!!! But is looks like it is discontinued now in 2023. Will there be a replacement from Sunline or are there other braids similar to its design from other manufacturers?
Thanks for the video Ben. My choice for fluorocarbon line is Seagear Red label. I also use Power Pro braid, and Berkeley Big Game mono. Works well for me, and so does the price. Appreciate you showing options. Definitely worth a try sometime. ✌🏻🎣
Thank you for watching, and for the feedback 👍
Thanks was going to head in today for some new line
Sweet! See you soon!
I was skeptical of the samurai but I have really become to like it alot
I really like using seagaur red label as a leader and invizX as a main line. Just got a 300 size reel to throw some glides and bigger wake baits. Would 20lb be strong enough to cover that style of fishing?
Wow you guys really are the best you really do just want us all to learn from one another the hook up is such an awesome brand and company
Thanks for watching man! 🤟
For long distance casting with my long (10-11ft) spinning rods (shimano Nessas) from shore, YGK xbraid X8 upgrade is my preferred braid (22 or 25lb test for 3k-4K size reels)...I wish you guys would get that back in stock again....
I started out running braid to leader for economical reasons- so I didn't have to respool a whole reel to change from mono to fluoro or whatever. But I have a tendency to over work baits- I'm not exactly graceful, to put it lightly. I'm thinking for bait like the jerk bait or anything where control is important- something that requires a little finesse- maybe I should change to straight fluoro or mono. Because it's true the braid to leader gives you more sensitivity and a more direct connection to your bait but, you have to remember that goes both ways. A small amount of input on the rod when running braid makes the lure respond immediately and sometimes to a much greater degree than we want or need it to. I think mono is probably my best option in this regard- lots of stretch- but I'm afraid it will muddy up the action of my bait to. I want a clean, crisp action on jerkbaits. Maybe fluoro is the right compromise.
One thing to note with Sunline is their line diameter is usually smaller in the higher test pounds then other brands, which means their break strength is much closer to the rated strength. I use 15 lb Berkley fluoro for jigs, but that's because I got 14 lb Sniper and it was breaking all the time so I thought it was junk. Then I finally realized that 15 lb Berkley is 0.015 inch, and 14 lb Sniper is 0.012 inch. 20 lb Sniper is 0.014 inch. So it's not the line that sucks, I was stupid and wasn't paying attention to the line diameter. Not all lines are rated equally.
Yeah, line diameter is a big deal to watch for! Good input 🤟
I use an Alberto knot to connect my leaders but I’ve had a lot of trouble with the Alberto knot using the Sunline Defier braid. The leader keeps slipping off and I tie a good Alberto knot. Has anyone else had this issue with defier braid? Maybe it’ll work better with an Fj knot?
Really Big fan of Nishine jig. I like fishing it on 8lb gamma touch leader with medlit rod. What line you think is best for me thats available?
Samurai Braid is simply hard to beat. You can put that stuff on Walmart Rod/Reel combo and it will elevate your game.
Agreed!
Great video. I have been curious on the Daiwa Fluoro. I oddly love Vicious pro elite. It’s Japanese made but who knows by who. Frog braid I like that Sunline flippin / froggin braid because it cuts weeds great. The sound sucks though.
Have you ever tried suffix 131? I tried and it’s the only braid I want to use. Unfortunately, it’s $40 dollars for 150 yards.
I've played with the Suffix, and never loved them. But never hated them either - so to be fair, probably didn't give them a full chance.
Seaguar Smack down. Fireline is good too
Is there a reason why you couldn’t use the Sunline Defier D braid on a baitcaster?
You said you always use braid on spinning reels, so if you throw a jerk bait do you just use a leader or just go straight braid?
For jerk bait fishing I would definitely use a fluoro leader. Helps the bait suspend better because it sinks (if that’s what they’re doing) and you get the “invisibility” of the fluoro. Hope this helps man
When you are going UL/BFS, what leaders do you use? like if you are at 2-3#, are you using the 6# leader? Very helpful vid btw.
looking for a good finesse casting reel ... any suggestions ?? preferably 300 or less .
Definitely love my Sniper but I'm a convert to Tatsu, especially with their new 17 & 22# test. Seaguar Gold Label is my go-to for leader, as well. Surprised you didn't mention those lines much...
I’m just not a fan of the Seaguar, but that doesn’t mean it’s not amazing line. It just doesn’t work for me. A lot of people love Tatsu!
Guys need your opinion, 6’10 med im6 lews rod has a lot of bend compared to my other rods. Bfs zillion Lb8-10 fluro or 10lb braid to 8lb fluro for super light neds, lipless cranks and baby top waters I caught a 4lber on 8lb fluro rod felt great reel worked perfect but am I doing okay?????
Ben so what’s the scoop on Xplasma?
I don't get that line. Tough to manage, doesn't cast well - I don't like it. I sell a bunch, so people must be having success with it, but I am not one of them.
It’s a flatter line so doesn’t cast well in wind. Really smooth line. I use it more for open water stuff. Quietest line I know doesn’t cut weeds well.
@@lightningmusky5286 I was chatting with Ben and agree it’s a weird line. It’s almost like it’s needs to be “broken in”. Super smooth and quiet.
Thank You
Which line would you use on a spinning reel throwing 1/8 crappie jigs to get maximum distance but also in at least a 10 lb test? I fish below a dam and where the crappie are mostly at is off limits and a long cast is necessary to reach them. A weighted float works to get that distance but id rather have direct contact with the jig. I’ve always used power pro maxquatro.
Just do braid to leader bro use some 15 or 20 pound braid to a leader an its perfect for a light setup u can cast really well and won't have to worry about wind knots as much.
10lb Seaguar Smackdown
@@SneakersAnonymousMatt Im asking about a specific line brand and which exact line by name. Not the type of line like braid, mono or flouro.
I like the Daiwa braids. 10lb J Braid would give you the maximum cast ability.
@@thehookuptackle_usa do you see any difference in 8 grand vs the regular 8
Living in South Korea, I use the JDM Shooter / Sniper (the same as the INVISIBLE you mentioned in the BFS segment) as my main FC and it is awesome. I do have a question though, what is the difference between Defier and Defier Armilo besides the color?
The Armilo is a low stretch mono, so it will perform similar to braid in terms of stretch, but in turn is stiffer. It’s basically an alternative to braid if you want to use a straight mono.
@@thehookuptackle_usa I used the Armilo 25lb for a season on bigger baits (3-4oz) and really liked it, availability here is almost non-existent though.
I’ve been a power pro guy since I started fishing seriously and I’m wondering how that compares to the braids you mentioned in this video. I guess I’m just curious if I should make the step to Max Cuatro or switch over to something else. Also I fish braid to leader on nearly all of my applications except jerkbaits and and crank baits so would that change anything when you’re selecting a braid?
In my experience, Power Pro being a 4 strand vs. an 8 strand, doesn't cast as smoothly as the Super Slick or other 8 strand braids.
What knot do you have the most faith in for tying leaders?
Alberto
If you’re willing to take the time to teach yourself how to tie it quickly the FG Knot is a great one. I have yet to have a single FG fail on me and it is an EXTREMELY thin and castable knot. You can put it through your guides all day and the knot holds true no problem so you can make your leader as long as you want.
@@davideakin3372 thanks man, I tie the fg also. I normally tie up all my rods before I head out to the water. I’ve been looking for a back up for the times when my leader runs out. Just something quicker, When I don’t have the time for the fg.
@@Mavejar520 As long as you can create some kind of tension in your mainline you can retie no problem. I bank fish so I feel the retying thing but if you practice the FG it should only take a few minutes
Clear fluorocarbon is virtually clear in open water, the issue with it is the color, it has a clear color to it, so when against a back drop (like grass, soot, weeds) that clear looks white compared to darker colors. It has a color to it, as you see it out of the water, but put it against something dark and you can clearly see the line outside of water. Same applies in the water, clear is clear, but it's not see through/invisible, and those darker colors do not pass through the line giving it a noticeable contrasting outline.
I don't really see the point of dyed fluorocarbon, it will not be clear in open water, but it has less contrast against darker colors, to me (I too love camo) it doesn't make much sense. I would argue the pigment in the line causes it to not be clear in open water (not purchased myself) so I can't try for first hand experience but I imagine it would basically be like dark green mono. Than again that is kinda the argument for samurai fc hidden line, use it in water that is darker.
What are your thoughts on the Marionette?
I'll use the Shooter for specific cases when I need max abrasion resistance. With the extra abrasion resistance comes a little stiffer line, so I usually side with easier casting.
The best braid/line is what you feel the most comfortable with
Yep!
When are you guys getting in some more Orochi Whipsnakes?
Hopefully October.
What is bfs?
What’s your thoughts on tatsu?
It’s obviously great line - many people swear by it! It just doesn’t work for me. I don’t like the cast ability of it. But it might be perfect for you depending on how you cast and your set ups!
Im a huge fan of sniper but this year ive made the mistake of flipping with it, most grass lakes I am %100 okay but while fishing highland reserviors I am finding myself breaking off and damaging the line very often. Its true how incredible it is for moving baits and casting in general but the abraision resistance is not there in the 16 and 18lb. Deffinitly seeing the benefits in being so nichey with my line. Love videos like this! Not a crazy big seaguar fan but 20lb abrazx is the next experiment
For flipping I switch to the shooter. It’s amazing for close combat.
Well noted 👊 thanks brah
As far as braid goes......I switched to Fins WindTamer and Fins XS and will never mess with anything else.....is so much better than any other.
I also commend you on your dropshot video, when you broke down the hook selection....it connected the dots for me as to why I would have a ton of bites sometimes but wouldn’t hook up to a bunch. I’m absolutely killing it lately with it. I really appreciate it. Thank you.
What's so special about fins? I like the Defier 7lb d braid for casting. No knots it sinks. But the price lol.
@@bfsjunkie6115 well I guess I live in a region where there is ALWAYS a wind blowing, it also stacks up on my reel nice but you can feel and hear how it whips through the air compared to others, only other one like it I tried is the kastpro 13x braid. Plus I find with the pink color a lot of time I can forgo a leader and still hook up the same amount of fish......I tried so many lines this year to find the best and the sling braid, xs, and windtamer kind of a class of their own IMO.
Defier is great same with Armilo…
Defier Armillo is the tits for straight mono! Well technically copo but yeah same sh!t. I love it because it is pretty much Defier minus 80% of the stretch.
After watching this video.
I know damn well im about to ask "what line should i use for .... " when i walk into the Your Shop 😂😂
Do it! 😂🤟
Invisx is much limper than sniper ! Hello
I'm a Braid kinda Guy.
Hello Braid Kinda Guy 🤟
@@thehookuptackle_usa Ha!
Limp is the main word of the video🤣
got to keep it limp! 🤟
When a prize from Ben if u can guess the amount of times he said limp, limpless or limpie 🤪
Win a limp prize…
ii got choked when he said 50$ for the braid sameri, nope not me im no technition fisherman
👍I'm just lazy big game for everything
Haha! Well, as long as it's working for you that's great! 🤟
Our favorites or your favorites! Lame
I mess with the sun line, seaguar is a garbage, overpriced and over rated brand and I’ll choose a vanish over any seaguar product. I have tried and it’s not ever performed in a consistent manner with me. Lost me a tourney and embarrassed me in my hometown. I’d put more confidence in a preloaded box store combo preloaded with line than I ever would any premium reel with any seaguar product. Trash. They don’t care either.....tried to bring it to their attention......
I've had good luck with the Seaguar R18
What happened with the Seagaur in your hometown tournament? I don’t use Seagaur but I’m curious what happened with it?
@@BrockNessMonster1991 I was kinda in a pinch, went to Wally World and bought two different sizes of line. Both seaguar. Since they are considered an at least decent brand of line I spooled up with them.......very light baits just snapped on my 3rd or fourth casts.....it’s just never happened to me before......go to other rig spooled with a larger test, snap........I figured maybe it was me and gave it another shot couple days later snapped with a light hook set. Brought to their attention and they don’t give a damn. I was using high end setups and fish damn near everyday, not ever has a brand of line let me down like that at any price point.
The line was not breaking at the knots either and it was two different packages of different size line but same brand and type,