You clearly see the desirable result.  

The bad result, reverse cone, will cause problems and frustrate your son.  

I would consider setting him up with one of the better line-charges you show.  

 

I would also consider stripping the CarbonXT and see how it lays mono.  

If you get a similar result with mono, it definitely needs more spool shim  If it gives a good mono result, fish it.  

What you’re seeing is the result of a budget reel. Generally, you get what you pay for. I agree with @bulldog1935 on removing braid and replacing with soft mono or PLine CX which is a soft limp line. (Co-poly)

Thanks I totally appreciate it!  I think I'm just going to send that Carbon XT back and move on, no need to waste time messing with that if I got better reels coming in.

On 7/30/2025 at 10:08 AM, PhishLI said:

So, use the info you've gather here and pick what you think is suitable for his saltwater setup.

That can happen with fluoro and a newbie.

 

I'd be willing to meet the up with you and your son locally (Wantaugh area) for a lesson. I've broken down and can articulate the mechanics of casting with a BC to the degree where I've taught even the most frightened to use them, both young and old, including those who've had terrible initial experiences and gave up. Even successfully taught my 10-year-old niece in a half hour. PM me if you're interested and I'll find the time.

Phish, if you could one have two rods/reels and line for bass fishing Long Island from the bank what would they be? I mainly fish Artist lake, yaphank and ronkonkoMa lake. I’m a noob who’s taken a hiatus from bass fishing and just starting back up 

1 hour ago, JustinJ said:

if you could one have two rods/reels and line for bass fishing Long Island from the bank what would they be?

7'3" MH fast baitcasting rod with standard guides, not micro guides, so you can use a leader if you choose. 7 spd reel with 30lb braid mainline.

 

7' to 7'3" MF spinning rod with standard guides, same reason as above. 3000 size spinning reel spooled with 15lb braid mainline. You'll want to cast for distance, especially at Ronk, so don't be talked out of a 3000 size.

20 hours ago, PhishLI said:

7'3" MH fast baitcasting rod with standard guides, not micro guides, so you can use a leader if you choose. 7 spd reel with 30lb braid mainline.

 

7' to 7'3" MF spinning rod with standard guides, same reason as above. 3000 size spinning reel spooled with 15lb braid mainline. You'll want to cast for distance, especially at Ronk, so don't be talked out of a 3000 size.

I bought an okuma

stratus a few weeks ago for cheap coin and put 10lb sufix 832 on it. Should I strip the line and go heavier or ahould

i I just keep the 10lb on?

18 minutes ago, JustinJ said:

Should I strip the line and go heavier or ahould

i I just keep the 10lb on?

Leave it.