New from Gosen, the Guidus X9 is an upgrade on what we’ve come to expect from a modern braid. As a retailer I’m always after a line that’s easy to use and as problem-free as possible, while getting as close as we can to perfection on presentation and feel — and that means durability and castability, where most braids are really only good at one or the other. With nine strands it’s beautifully smooth, with a rounder profile than the eight-strands I’ve always rated, and the technology has come far enough now that the extra strand count doesn’t cost you durability. It’s also a touch less supple than our Roots X8, which is no bad thing at all — a little stiffness only makes casting and handling easier. Honestly, I just love it: it’s the most beautiful braid we’ve ever sold, it feels superior, and it’s going on all of my reels this year.A quick word on choosing your PE — and don’t get hung up on breaking strains, because modern braids are so thin now that strength isn’t really the question. What you’re buying as you go up the diameters is durability, not just strength.0.6 PE — our perch, light saltwater and heavier-LRF line. Ideal in summer on very small lures when you still want a bit of durability, smashing mackerel, pollock and small bass, and capable of slightly bigger fish over clean ground. Mostly it sells as a freshwater perch and light zander line for 2 to 7g jigs.0.8 PE — a lovely light all-rounder and the lighter end of what we’d use for bass. Great for the estuary and lighter lures in calmer, cleaner areas, and for anyone wanting thin line for delicate presentation or a bit more casting distance. Don’t be fooled by the 19lb rating — it’s very high for the diameter.1.0 PE — the all-round bass line these days, and the one to pick if you’re not sure what you’ll face. Light enough for most estuary fishing, with enough extra durability to cope with the open coast too. Happy with anything from 5 to 7g up to around 35 to 40g.1.2 PE — my own long-time favourite for bass. Still very, very thin — not a heavy braid by any means — but with a touch more durability than the 1.0. Brilliant distance, and that extra toughness is why I recommend it so often for fishing the wind, the rocks, and ground you don’t fully know.The range is also built to run up to a 1.5 PE — the option for the roughest seas, bigger lures and rough, snaggy ground where you’re buying durability more than strength. It’s an important part of where this line is going, and one we expect to bring in, so watch this space. For now the Guidus comes in 150m and 300m spools — 150m is plenty for most people (it’s what I use, and there’s no shame in a bit of backing under it), with 300m for longer-distance work or filling the spool entirely with braid.