Mono vs. braid vs. or Flurocarbon

What is your best recommendation for line for saltwater spinning rod? Will be fishing off shore for Cobia, red drum, mackerel, etc. I probably am looking for 30-40 lb. test. I know everyone will have different opinions so how about some examples of what your experience has been with any of these, the good and the bad. If anyone has compared them under actual fishing conditions that would be extremely helpful. Please exclude cost as a factor.

Braid for good diameter to strength ratio, line capacity and longevity. Mono for price and stretch. I haven’t used flouro as a mainline before.

I’ve switched over to braid for my newer spinning reels.I like Power Pro 20 pound for most inshore. I still use mono on my older big Penn spinning reels. The guys at Haddrell’s Point told me that they were not designed to handle braid as well as the newer reels do.

Jack Taylor

Braid for main line flouro for leaders. I use Spiderwire and have been happy with it.

“Apathy is the Glove in Which Evil Slips It’s Hand”.

I don’t fish offshore but for inshore stuff I definitely prefer braided line. Far more sensitive and you can sling it a lot further.

If you are trolling for mackerel (kings) then I can’t offer you any advice, but if you are tossing lures for Spanish, or slinging bait for the reds, then I think you’ll be quite happy with the braid. Use a 15-24" 20-40lb fluorocarbon leader for low-vis and abrasion resistance.



“Sire, it belongs in truth to the Church of God, in whose name I speak, to endure blows and not to inflict them. But it will also please your Majesty to remember that she is an anvil that has worn out many hammers.”…Theodore Beza