Hey B&J Experts - What about Fireline?

[drifter]

Talked to a well-known Oregon guide who uses Berkley Fireline (green), 20# test, with a Shimano spinning reel for bobber and jig.

It seems from RT's post "8 nates..." that many are still using mono. I have been using Ultragreen for years and will still use it for leader. However, the Fireline has definate advantages.

Also, any advantages or disadvantages about color: Hot Green or Neutral Smoke? What # test do you recommend?

What do you experts think. Thanks, in advance, Drifter. http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by drifter (edited 03-07-2001).]

[drifter]

Hey, CnD. What pound test do use for steelhead and what color? If green, does it cause fish to shy in low and clear water? Thanks, Drifter.

[chuck 'n' duck]

Drifter:

I think it is 40# test @ 8# diameter. The color is green. I usually use my bobber setup to fish pocket water or seams. I have not used it sight-fishing yet, so I am not sure whether the line color spooks fish. I may have an opportunity to test that out this weekend if I hit Eagle Creek.

CnD

Edit:
I do not use this line direct to a jig or bait. I attach a 36" leader to a swivel. Also, I run a sliding bobber.


[This message has been edited by chuck 'n' duck (edited 03-07-2001).]

[chromer]

I love Fireline on my bobber and jig outfit. Its all I use.

As previously mentioned the advantages definitely outway the disadvantages. Thin diameter means more line on the spool, very little stretch leads to better hook-ups when you tail a lot of line off, it floats for better line control, and casts like a dream. I use 15 or 20 pound and like the high visibility yellow best. I tie a 10 - 12 foot bumper of 8 or 10 pound leader on the end with a Uni-Knot and have never had a problem even with fish well into the teens.

I have tried Tough Line and didn't like it at all for this application. Much too limber and kept wrapping around the rod tip. Fire Line is stiff enough so this isn't a problem.

I also tried Fireline on my drift rod and went back to monofilament real quick.

[chuck 'n' duck]

Drifter:

I have Fireline loaded on my bobber rod, and I am very happy with the stuff. I like the braided line because it floats unlike mono. This allows for better line control if you are unable to keep all of the line off the water. You can mend the line to avoid drag on the bobber (much like fly line).

CnD