Heavier line than reel is rated for?

[onetriphudson]

Originally Posted by BrokeLoser

With the exception of loading a braid / spectra backing do you spool your reel(s) with heavier line than they're rated for?

I guess it depends on what you're trying to do and where? You wouldn't want to go fish 100# bluefin with a Penn 500 just because you filled it with 80#. Although you might catch some fish, you probably want to make things easier on yourself with a more balanced rig. For me, it all starts with the bait. If I'm using a small sardine, I'd choose the lightest circle hook that will help the sardine swim best, the lightest line that I care to get hooked on, and then the rod that will help me cast the sardine. I'd want enough line capacity to handle a long run (at least 200 yards). There are other times that heavier line is great for either flotation or just abrasion resistance like fishing jigs or topwater baits. But do whatever it takes man, part of the fun out there is figuring it out for yourself. If you got a clever idea, don't be afraid to give it a try. Lot's of guys miss the chance to try something new because they're afraid they won't catch fish. I've done the same thing lots of times and not caught fish!