Do you use a backing with your Braid?

[Yak Fish]

I use backing, just a cheap Berkley Big Game mono, 12 lb or so - it's recommended so that the braid doesn't clamp down so tight on the spool, the mono backing on the spool builds in some "give"

I fill the spool about halfway or so with mono, then add the braid. After about 3 years or so, I peel all the braid off, then spool it back on the other way/flip it around so that I end up with another 3 years out of it.

^^This is what I do too. I go maybe 2 years per end and trim back any frays or rough spots as needed. I replace my fluorocarbon leaders every other trip or as needed.

Jim

[Special K]

I like to use a couple of turns of electrical tape and a drop of super glue to prevent the braid from spinning on the spool... and like others have said:
When I re-spool, I'll leave about 1/3 of the old braid on the reel... cut it cleanly as possible... and tie the new braid onto it using a double uni-knot.
I too use a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader depending on whether I want the leader to float freely or sink based on the lure or presentation.