I have this aversion to using larger than 6lb line due to the inferior line lay on the spool and the springiness in which it comes off.

Can this be helped by the quality of line and the type of reel.

I am needing this for big river feeder fishing on norfolk broads. I idealy need 8lb line.

Which reel and line combo would anyone recomend.

thanks

john

Fox soft steel and a mitchell 300. However if you are feeder fishing you might try braid I hear it gives better bite indication, I don't like it myself but then I don't do much feeder fishing.

Rich

soft steel is a good line in heavier weights, never used it in 6 or 8lb. braid is amazing for feeder fishing, something like 10 or 15lb powerpro.

Poor line lay is always down to the reel not the quality of line.Even if your reel isnt loading up properly (regardless of make or quality) there is plenty you can do about it.Give some more precise details and I can sugest some cures.

As Richard says the line lay on the old 300 is excellent certainly the reel that set the standard many years ago.Gladly most reels have a good line lay these days.

sorry mate the elite gave you 2 speed oscillation the mitchell was plain old planetary ,most good reels use what was called camatic line lay in the 60's, today called 2 speed