How much braid for jigging..conventional reels

[Radiater]

I have two Avet LX reels with a 4:1 retreive ratio that are just not doing as much as should be and I would like to use them for jigging. Yes this is a cost saving measure and I like the reels.

Eventually plan to get two spinning set ups for jigging..probably Shimano Saragosas.

The reels currently are mounted on two Billfisher 30 to 50lb class rods at 6'. Nothing special but functional for trolling. A new set of Trevalas or insert appropriate jigging rod here would probably be lighter and nicer but I would have to run that through cost appropriations committee (SWMBO)


I am thinking about putting on some marked braided jigging line in 50lb test...

The plan is to use them for offshore wreck jigging and for dropping on schools of tuna.

How much braid should I try to pack on them?

I was thinking 300 yds should be enough and use some mono for backing or should I just fill the reel with as much braid as I can get on it. Also plan to use a short mono leader/topshot of around 20'

Any thoughts?

[sportfishingusa]

alot of people use like 50 lb mono as backing for the reel to tighten the line down and it is not a bad idea..

but i just load them up until i feel it is full.. wether it be 200-300-500-1000 yards and then i add my top shot of normally depending on what i am jigging for.. which for me is usually sea bass and freaking striped bass. lol and i use 30-60lb flouro top shots!! lol

[stressrelief 28.5]

I would not use anything less than 80 pounds. Thats just me.

[John Rogers]

I would use 80 or above. The lighter braids seem to dig in the spool when you fishing with a heavier drag. On my jigging rod I have 400yrds of braid. Make sure it is packed tight. then put a top shot on. Make sure to use a mono backing as well so the braid doesn't slip on the spool

[paul708]

for tuna i would stick with 80#
if you can afford , use good PE line and fill the reel.
you really dont want a unnessary knot or connection in the line.
except for your topshot.
which is usually 6-20' long depending on conditions and what you are fishing for.

[mythosbeer]

I would go with 80lb braid. I wouldn't use anything less than 60lb and have heard that 60lb is better for some people because it is thinner and isn't affected by the current as much. I don't see the need in going over 80lb though...I just don't see the benefit of it.

As far as the reel goes...whatever you have that is stiff enough will move your jig. It will get heavy though, which is a big advantage of the jigging rods. you might not have as much action by using a non-parabolic rod...but you should get enough to catch fish!

Those reels will be fine. They might be on the large size depending on what size tuna you are after. But again...its a weight thing. 10oz. in a reel doesn't seem like much when you hold it at home, but it feels like a ton after jigging for an hour straight.

hope this helps and good luck!

Mitch