Line selection

[zippyFX]

(04-07-2014 05:57 PM)Fossil Fish Wrote:  The rod is labelled for 6-12lb and is medium action.

Some of the larger fish you mentioned may tax this rod. As might fighting the weeds. Bigger fish and tough conditions may call for a different rod.

(04-07-2014 05:57 PM)Fossil Fish Wrote:  The reel gives amounts for 8/10/12lb mono. I was thinking about trying braid, it's just the strength I haven't a clue about.

I tend to look at line diameter of the reel to select size. A spool with a minimum of 8lbs mono you should be looking at 30lbs or greater (I think 20 should be OK, atleast I have gotten away with it). A maximum of 12lb mono would take you upto 50lb braid. Mind you a hard fighting 20lb carp may challenge that reel.

(04-07-2014 05:57 PM)Fossil Fish Wrote:  Also,is color important if I use a fluoro leader.

I tend to stick to green out of preference. The importance of using fluro increases with the clarity of the water. The murkier the water the more likely you may be able to go with braid alone. I have never fished the locations you mentioned so I can't comment.