I don't think anyone else answered about the line size but what I use is 15lb Pline CX Premium on my bass rods when in the jumps or jigging. For my larger down rods, umbrella rigs etc. I use same CX Premium in 20lb test. You are supposed to use heavier line with the umbrella rigs but never snapped the line yet. When using live bait I use a 17lb fluorocarbon leader.
For my bass rods I use the 15lb test and never break off but if you drop down to 12 you will loose some baits for sure. Maybe other guys get away with it but if you are consistently catching larger fish 12lb just don’t cut it unless you want to fight them for a really long time and risk loosing it.
As far as the fish I have not been out for a week was out of town.