Every time I use braided line, it seems to catch on itself mid-cast and knot up. Is this because I don't have my reel set up properly, or because I need a different reel to use the braid?

 

Thanks

I am assuming you are using a baitcasting reel and what you are experiencing is called backlash.  It happens to everyone.  There a  couple different things you can do to help reduce backlash. 

1. make sure you have a monofilament backer.  I tend to spool about 40 yards of mono before I put my braided line on which helps the line grip the reel better.

2. make sure your brakes are set correctly, watch glenn's "how to cast a baitcaster" video he explains it very well.

3. make sure you use the correct diameter of braided line.  I like to use 20-30lb line which is the same diameter as a 10-12lb mono.

4.practice, practice, practice some more, then while your at it practice!

5. don't try to cast 100 yards and try to use lures with a little bit of weight to them.  By casting to hard you can easily cause backlash.

6. PRACTICE

 

Hope this basic overview helps!

Any reel can handle braid if it's spooled correctly. Use backing or tape to keep it from slipping, spool it under tension to make it lay evenly and tightly. 30# or heavier is easier to manage on casting reels. When you get hung up wrap the line around a dowel or something as opposed to pulling with the reel. 

Every time I use braided line, it seems to catch on itself mid-cast and knot up. Is this because I don't have my reel set up properly, or because I need a different reel to use the braid?

 

Thanks

 

Hi BayouCassAssassin,

 

There is no reason that most bait casting reels won't work with braid.  If you are using light weight braid like 10lb that will cause your problem more than say 30lb braid.  This problem is usually caused right after you have caught a fish or a snag.  The line is pulled under other line due to its small diameter and when you cast it causes a back lash.  Every time you catch a fish or get snagged, you need to remove the line back below the line you just used.  You can pull it out or make a soft cast to no where.  After you have rewound the line you are good to carry on.  Braid is great line and its good points far out way its bad points.

 

Frank

Any reel can handle braid if it's spooled correctly. Use backing or tape to keep it from slipping, spool it under tension to make it lay evenly and tightly. 30# or heavier is easier to manage on casting reels. When you get hung up wrap the line around a dowel or something as opposed to pulling with the reel. 

Based on my own negligence many years ago by snapping a couple of rod tips.  When I'm snagged I find pulling the line rather than tugging with the rod in certain situations works better..........this is the tip, put your reel in free spool or open the bail to release any tension off the rod tip.  In some scenarios I like snapping the bow, but the situation has to be right.

Sounds as though it's dug in to the spool.