Game_fish said:
Ok I don't think I want to go with Dacron as I've noticed it has a lot of drag in the current. But I'm so new to braided lines I have no idea what to look at. All the lines say they have something that the competitor doesn't.
Are there some braids that are more user friendly and cast-able? Or do they all behave the same?
Fair enough. There's an opinion from anyone and everyone, and I've tried to dodge around it... I read a lot of the independent tests, and really, honestly, there's no real differece between the traditional, new "super" braids. Berkely Nanofil and Fireline are fused braids, and are different.
Shimano's PowerPro is the number one best selling Spectra fiber braid at Bass Pro, Cablela's and Amazon. It is close to the lowest price per foot. 80 lb has the diameter of 18lb monofilament; 100lb has a diameter equal to 20lb mono; 150lb is the same diameter as 30lb mono. I don't know how much it will take to fill your Penn, but 80lb costs around $65 for 500 yards, 100lb and 150lb will cost around $85, +/- $10 depending on where you buy it.
You can cut the cost by putting a heavy mono backing on the reel (you'll need a few yards anyway because these braids are very slick and will spin on the spool if you have enough line out).
Remember what I said about tests by Sports Afield and Outdoor Life and others: there's no real difference in these new braids from brand to brand, so go with what suits your pocket the best.
Nanofil and Fireline are fused braids. I have used and like Fireline, but it is a bit pricey. I use Power Pro Super 8 Slick but ONLY because it comes in two colors that I use the most: Green for clearer water and Brown for really dirty water.
BE AWARE that I fish smaller species than sturgeon and the heaviest line I use is 30lb. I think I've steered you in the right direction, but I dont use line that heavy...
Happy fishing!