Ahhh........A tiny barrel swivel to make the FC and braid connection. Less than a pro set-up would you not agree? It is all coming back to me now. That was the other thing I didn't like about the 832........the braid to FC connection was weak. I couldn't get it to stick and I always try lots of different combinations (double lines, various numbers of wraps etc)

So your FC leader must be short, say a foot? Anything longer might create a casting hazard. So then what is the point? A short little FC leader accomplishes little I would think. I like at least 3' if I am going stealth.

Which leads me to a conclusion......what is the advantage of braid in canoe country? I will grant you situational specifics.......I like braid in moving water like below a falls (less diameter to catch the moving water hence less "kiting")...... heavily timbered water where I need to snatch one out quickly, getting big deep diving cranks to the bottom, vertical jigging and for all pike fishing applications (break it if you can big boy).

I will stick with mono for most trolling/casting. Far more stealthy, easy to work with and I for one like a little stretch in my line (pulled hooks are less likely). Yes I understand how braid transmits bites better (I use it exclusively for backcountry salt water applications) but with a little practice and attention you will get most mono bites.

One last thought.........Years and years ago I read an article about trolling for walleyes at night in which the author used original balsa rapalas exclusively. He was very emphatic about the connection. He used no snaps or split rings at all. His method was to tie an improved clinch directly to the lure and angle the knot down 30 degrees. AHA! The lure has a very nice "roll" to it when this method is applied. The knot has to come off perfectly straight as well. I mostly use this on original rapalas unless I drop to very light line and then I use the fas snap which makes a very reliable connection with light applications. I will of course try the improved clinch system (I will use another wrap knot.....Gryp knot/tie fast tool) on the new Rapala to see if there is an improvement in action.

Can you tell I'm chomping at the bit to fish? Other than a few casts on my rides I haven't fished since August  :P.