
Originally Posted by
crappiepappy
I usually don't replace the entire spool, just the top 1/3 - 1/2 of it ... depending on reel size. Now, I'm talking spinning reels, for the most part ... but, baitcast reels can be done the same way.
I definitely don't replace the entire spool, when putting braid on a reel. It's not only more economical to not replace it all, but the old/used mono left on serves as backing and keeps the braid from slipping/spinning on the arbor.
In any event I replace an amount (length) that is 3 times as long as I'm ever likely to have out ... whether casting or trolling, and considering the number & length of breakoffs I'm likely to sustain. All in all, that's usually the top 1/3 of moderate use reels and 1/2 of primary use reels. Ultralights are a different story, as I do replace all of their line ... but only because they don't hold all that much, anyway.
What pound test I use depends on what species I'm after, and what method I'm most prone to be using with that outfit. Unless I change the species &/or primary fishing method ... I replace the line with the same pound test.
UV rays from the Sun, and excessive heat (from storage in vehicles/boats/tackle box) will deteriorate mono, over time. I keep my reels & line spools in the house, until needed.
... pappy