I fish the Panama City pier a few times a year. I know the basics for fishing live baits for kings and whatever else is biting at the time but by no means am I experienced. I use 30 lb mono and make my own wire leaders not sure what size and probably never buy the same size twice. I use circle hooks but never really know what size or kind to buy. Looking for any helpful advice. Also what size sabiki rig should I be using? I have always just bought random sizes and colors and wasn’t sure what actually works best.

For equipment current use a Penn Pursuit II 6000 which is 5-6 years old and pretty worn out. On my last trip down I broke my rod and bought a 9’0” prevail rod that was recommended to me by a local fisherman that worked a bait shop. I am interested in buying a new reel before my next trip in 2 weeks but not sure what to buy or what size I really need. I am not looking to really break the bank but have a couple hundred dollars to spend. I want to be able to catch Kings and also be able to at least have a fighting chance to fight something bigger like a tarpon and at least have some fun for a minute.

I know this is a lot of info but I really enjoy what little saltwater fishing I am able to do and am interested in learning more ways to fish and improving my tackle selection to have more hookups.

Thanks for any helpful advice.