help with reel and braid

[KityKat]

I currently have a nice 4-8kg rod from a tackle shop paired with a 2-4kg Shimano sienna 2500 and wanted to replace it with a shimano sienna 4000, but now I have the dilemma of what pound line I should get, I am located in Wollongong, and was thinking of at some point mabye trying to catch mackerel, but usually just   Bream and flathead. 

[ellicat]

I'd go 20lb on a decent quality braid that is still relatively thin. Otherwise you could just alternate reels with different strengths.

[benno573]

for bream and flathead anything from 10 - 20lb would be fine, generally the lighter the better but a lot of people feel more comfortable with something a little heavier.  The rod / reel would be fine for anything up to 20lb.  good luck

[mangajack]

Two braids that I really like are Tasline and Nitlon PEX8.   

Both are roughly $80 for 300m.

Both lines are super fine limp braids that work well on spin reels.

These lines are NOT my choice for baitcasters because they are super fine diameter.

Both lines knot exceptionally well with FG knots.

I would be looking at 12 to 16lb in either braid.

Nitlon PEX8 seems to regularly go on special at clearance rates online....I generally buy up when I see it...$40 for 300m roughly.

[Bob9863]

20lb wouldn't be a bad choice in that situation, especially in a thin braid, but 15lb regular braid should do the trick too.

They will reduce your casting distance with lighter soft plastics ect but should be plenty strong and tough enough with the right leader for what your fishing for at the time.

It's a bit of a jump to go from bream and flathead to mackerel but I'd say the 15lb would be your best bet. The lighter you fish the more bites you get, landing them then is up to you.