Is 20 lb monofilament too heavy?

[agdodge4x4]

For wade fishing in and around galveston? I often use the same rod/reel combo for bay AND surf fishing. It seems to cast OK with 1/2oz or heavier lure and it does OK for live bait but I was curious is 15 lb is 'better'. I usually fish with 5500 or 6500 Abu baitcasters.

[Gilbert]

yes, 20# is too heavy. 12# is better.

[aqua pimp]

In my opinion 20 lb test is overkill in the bays.... I use 10 lb myself but I would recommend 12 lb. 12 lb is a good line for the bays. Just make sure you go with a 20 lb shock leader. For throwing lures you will get more distance with a 10 or 12 lb line.

AQUA PIMP

[SUPER SPOOK]

15 works good on the abu's.

[reeltime]

I just switched back to 15# big game.The 12# andie was the cat's meow for birdnest for me.

[agdodge4x4]

Why do i need shock leader if im using mono?

[Robalo]

Because it doesn't break on oyster shell as easily as a 12# mono or get cut as easily by fish' teeth as easily as 12# mono. When you lose that wall hanger, you will wish you used a shock leader.

[The Fisherman]

I would use the 12lb. You can go even lighter than that if you like, you will be able to cast farther with smaller test lines just Remember to set your drag a little looser. A keeper Red might pop the line. I think he was thinking if you where bottom fishing that you would need a shock leader! Good Luck & Happy Fishing!!

[Robalo]

I think he was thinking if you where bottom fishing that you would need a shock leader! Good Luck & Happy Fishing!!

Nope, you should use the shock leader to catch fish, not lose fish and would use for topwaters, plastics or live bait. If ya wanna lose a good fish, try no shock leader.

[Gulfcoast13]

I use 14

[buoy37]

If you opt to not use a shock leader, check your line after every fish hooked. A couple of teeth, fins and gill plates can ruin your line quality.

[H.Maier]

Because it doesn't break on oyster shell as easily as a 12# mono or get cut as easily by fish' teeth as easily as 12# mono. When you lose that wall hanger, you will wish you used a shock leader.

Right on!

[gus12343]

ill put up to 15lb on my 5500 c3

[agdodge4x4]

Well, i wasnt challenging the recommendation...just asking why as I am a relative newbie when it comes to saltwater fishing. That's good info to know. Ill certainly do that.

[H.Maier]

Whether you choose a shock leader or not if you're throwing a jig or sinking bait around structure you need to check your line for abrasion or nicks ever so often before your next cast. A good fish breaking off can give you the blues.