I have tried to "lighten up" with my FC. My first leader of #60 was shredded by a very average pike this past summer. I tried another and my big jig ended up gone. Back to the #100 which seems to do fairly well.

As for knots with FC here are my thoughts. You can purchase pre-made FC leaders of #100 lb test. I have had good luck so far with pre-made. Sorry, I can't remember the brand off hand.

If you prefer to tie your own and use knots I would go with #80 for sure. When you get to 100# you really start to get into the realm of crimps. With #80 you can use a tie fast (yes, once again.....works superb with FC) knot tool. Use the gryp knot. Be sure to use 3 wraps. 3 wraps will be the number of your counting. You will not go to 4 and neither will you go to 2, unless proceeding to 3 ;). Be sure and wet the knot and pull tight.

Try and avoid tying to to small an eyelet. A nice thick 5/0 hook is good.