What can I do to prevent line breaks when fishing for catfish with 8lbs line

Question

The place I am gonna fish is the Santa Ana River Lakes. I am using 8lb test because I need to cast far. So what measures can I take to prevent line breakage

Answer 1

Set your drag to 5 lbs.

Find something that weighs 5 lbs and tie it onto your line, set your drag so that when you pick it up with the rod, the drag will barely start to let out line.

Once you get the drag set, rig it up.

Use a swivel up the line a little bit also. Twisted line adds to the load already on the line.

Answer 2

Use a thinner 20 lb line, you may loose 10-20 feet of distance on a cast, but at least you'll be able to fight the fish.

Answer 3

Make sure the line is in good shape, not kinked or worn, and doesn't snag on the eyelets. Adjust the drag on your reel so the drag will give way before the line breaks, and try to avoid yanking the line tight. Oil your reel, check the eyelets on your rod for rough spots, and every few casts, look at the line near the end to make sure it isn't getting scratched up.

Have a great time fishing!

Answer 4

Redfred is right about the drag. All I can say is don't use 8lb. line! Around here you'd better be fishing with 50-65lb. braid or really heavy mono because the cats are BIG! Seriously, the way to avoid constant breaks with 8lb. test is to really work your drag or use heavier line. With cats casting far isn't as important as getting to the bottom. Add a sinker, you add weight(for casting distance) and get down deep.

Answer 5

always have your drag set to one-third of the lb test you are using  

Answer 6

drag drag drag or I agree with them - I love my Fireline great stuff.

Answer 7

Set the drag on your reel

Use a light action  rod with a  full blank action, this way it will allow you to apply lots of pressure to play the fish in without your  line snapping.

If its still happens switch to braid with a low diameter you can still cast as far but without the risk of breaking the line. Quality braid to try is fireline or power pro, you may want to add a fluorcarbon leader, for easier knots and less  chance of spooking the fish.