Having the darndest time with heavier flouro on these low-profile baitcasting reels.

[Ground Pounder]

After pouring over information (particularly Kevin's Fishing Line Guide), I decided to spool up one of my new Exceler's with 17lb. flouro for my all-purpose flipping / c-rig / soft stickbait. Unfortunately, the results have been disasterous.

First problem may have been my line choice. I went with Trilene 100% flouro, as it was on-sale at the local bait & tackle ($11 for 200 yds). Second issue was not treating it with any kind of line conditioner. And third, admittedly, is likely my inexperience with a baitcaster. In any case, I've spent more time fishing backlashes out of this thing than I have fishing for bass in the last few trips out.

Now, the other two baitcasters have been a breeze to work with. The second Exceler, spooled with Stren original 14lb. mono, as well as the BlackMax that's spooled with 50lb. Spiderwire stealth braid, have been very forgiving, even with my terrible casting mechanics. But try as I may, I just can't seem to manage this heavier flouro.

So I'm going to replace this line... but with what? Dedicating this reel to c-rigs, soft stickbaits, and flipping / jigging is my priority. So should I go with another flouro brand, something more forgiving, in the same test? Or maybe go down a few notches to something in the 12-14 range? Maybe a smaller dia braid with a flouro leader?

Thanks in advance,

GP