I have used braid on non casting deep sea alleys for 25 years. I prefer the 6'' and 7'' sizes of the C5 type. Never had any problems and fill the spools with heavy mono and top shot 300m of braid. I am looking for maximum diameter to wind the line onto.

As for my side casting , I have only ever used mono. I suspect this style is what your question is relating to. I use low stretch mono.

Hpoe this helps a little

Was a forum discussion on this site about this a while ago. A few pro,s and con's. I've only used mono on my side caster.

http://fishwrecked.com/forum/alvey-and-ballooning

Stupid question:

Can you attach a fixed spool reel to the alvey rods?  I know that on some deep sea set up's with Alveys, that the reel seat, is quiet close to the butt section, but If you are not casting distances, can you change the reel on the rod to a fixed spool..  Just so I can use a fixed spool on the rod. :)

I am new to the alvey set ups etc, so please forgive my ignorance on the subject. Thanks

If the alvey reel feet sit inside the seat properly you shouldn't have a problem. But you will not be able to cast with a fixed reel, must swing sideways so line can come of reel. Most beach rods setup up for alvey reels ( have small hook between reel and first eye) are quite long and have short butts. Don't know if this answers ya question.

Cheers Wes,

Yes it answers most of it, Im just heading out on saturday with a charter boat, and I suspect they will be using the usual Alvey reel and rods, so been cheeky I said I could chance bringing my own fixed spool, so I can use their rod and my reel, cause i prefer the fixed spool..

So with some luck they have the reel seat with the lips on it to allow the fixed spool to be attached.. Fingers crossed..LOL

 mainly use fixed spools I've not seen any side casters on a charter myself. But if you've got a favourite reel I don't think they would care to much. Good Luck