Offshore reel spooling/top shot

[Pennsy Guy]

jsnake, can do it yourself if so inclined...I try to do 1/2 braid and 1/2 mono-at least 200 yds mono top shot. Trick is the braid to mono connection. I tie a foot-long loop in braid using a 5-6 turn surgeon's loop; then tie a 12 turn Albright to make the connection. After it's tightened, tag ends trimmed, a drop of crazy glue.
Guys use a heavier backing than the top-shot, but I like to use the same pound test as the mono---works for me. Just have to have enough tension when loading the reel to get the line tight.