I use both ... 4lb Stren Gold - 4 & 6lb Trilene Iron Silk. I wouldn't say I fish in "really" clear water, but I have used them successfully at Weiss Lake Ala - Watts Bar Lake Tn - Taylorsville Lake Ky ... none of which are considered 'clear' water, but neither are they considered 'murky' water lakes. Generally speaking, when the lakes are clear enough to see down a few feet, the Crappie are going to be several feet below that depth ... given the other circumstances affecting them. In those circumstances, the water depth will afford the fish some security ... and help diminish the line color effect. (if there really is any)Originally Posted by caseydrew
When casting, watching the line for any sign of movement is key to detecting strikes ... especially light ones. They don't always "thump" ... sometimes they just "tic" .... and sometimes all you see is the line moving off to one side or the other, or going slack. The earlier you detect these line movements, the more chance you have of setting the hook before the fish rejects the bait. Missed bites are almost the same thing as no bites ... so, seeing the bite, instead of or in place of feeling the bite, IMHO is the most important factor in casting. Even if it means not having 'some' of the fish even hit the lure, you're still better off with line you can see ... even in clear water. I know that the fish can see most all lines, under most conditions ... I just don't think it presents itself as much of a "threat", when compared to the potential for a "meal". Boat noise, angler movement, casting shadows, and such are probably more likely to register as a threat (to the fish) ... than a thin strand of color hanging in the water.
..... cp