Choosing line strength and shock leader

For general surf fishing, 15 to 25 lb mono is a good starting point; 30 to 50 lb braid is equivalent in strength but much thinner, so it casts further and cuts through wind.

The casting shock leader takes the force of the cast. The usual rule of thumb is about 10 lb of leader for each ounce of sinker.

A 5 oz sinker therefore calls for about 50 lb leader. Use a leader at least as long as the rod plus 5 to 6 turns on the spool.

The trace should be a little lighter than the main line so that if you snag, the trace breaks before the main line.