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Daily fishing report

So, have you tried any of these new power braid fishing lines that have come on the scene recently? If you have, chances are there are characteristics you like and dislike. If you haven't, you're probably missing the boat.

When this line first came on the market a few years back, it was triangle-shaped and it was cutting or wearing a groove in the ceramic insert of the rod guides. Today, most braids are similar to a curved rectangle. There are no sharp edges like before.

One thing that scares most fishermen is cost. Most braids cost about $12 for 100 yards. Realistically, all you need is about that much on your reel spool anyway. Normally, the spool is backed with monofilament line and the braid is added to that. Rarely do you get into the backing. There is no line memory so you do not have to change it as often, which cuts down line cost.

Another misconception is you have to learn new knots. That is true with some of the braids, but now braids are available so you can tie the same knots you've always used.

The line is much smaller in diameter allowing further casts. There is no stretch so there is a more positive hook set. One of the best things is it is more abrasion resistant. Barnacles, metal or concrete pilings will not cut it. Sharp oyster shell edges will, but they'll cut mono easier.

-- Captain Rick Frazier runs Lucky Dawg Charters out of St. Petersburg and can be reached at (727) 510-4376 or e-mail captrick@luckydawg.com

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