Backing

[mike j]

OK, so I’ll admit it.. the last time I put backing on a reel I don’t think there was an alternative to dacron…

I’m loading up my 8wt and 10wt for striper and for gulf flats fishing this summer… and I’m looking at all of this Gel-Spun and Spectra.

I like smaller diameter and higher breaking strength… but can some of you guys / gals chime in on pro’s and con’s of going away from Dacron?

thanks..

[Matt Jones]

If you go gel-spun, wrap the spool TIGHT, super tight!

www.mattjonesphotography.com

[Bob Riggins]

Matt is correct, you have to be careful spooling it.

[dusty montgomery]

When spooling up gel-spun, I have seen some guys wrap the arbor with masking tape to give the gel-spun something to cling to. As was mentioned earlier, do not get your fingers any where near this stuff during a long run. I have cut myself with it just tying knots! For the money and hassle w/ potentially lost digits, unless you are expecting 150 yard plus runs, I would stick with Dacron as well.

What reel will you be using, and what is its Dacron capacity?

Dusty

[glenn court]

Labrati
I don’t know anyone here in Oz who would consider using dacron as backing anymore,freshwater anglers included. The two most popular brands of GSP being Fins and Bionic braid(an aussie braid which I believe is available in the U.S).
A reel which will hold 150 meters of 10kg dacron will hold 250 odd meters of 15kg GSP,now some fish don’t require lots of backing(or any backing) but what you gain for those that do is a larger spool diameter for faster line pick up. Finger cuts only occur when your to slow to get your fingers out of the way when Mr fishy takes off,it happens but you will learn quick 🙂

Cheers
Glenn

[craig phillips]

Been using Bionic Braid for a couple of seasons now, and I like it.

[mike j]

Thanks guys!

[Bob Riggins]

Off the subject, but how do you like the 3.5 Radius reel.

[mike j]

Off the subject, but how do you like the 3.5 Radius reel.  I have a 1.5 Radius for my trout rod, but I’m seriously considering a 3.5 for an 8wt saltwater rod I’m building.  Madison River Fishing Company has last years model (pre Hard Alox I’m sure) for $99.

I do like the reel.

[Brett Hoskins]

Guys

I love the Tibor Backcountry Wide for saltwater use.

[Author]

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