I really wanted to like fluorocarbon but never really found one I liked. I use mono on every rod I own. Stren super knot strength and Berkley trilene xl both in 10 lb. on bait casters and 6 lb on spinning rods. I feel like I get longer life out of mono and it's cheap enough I can strip it off and replace it as often as I like without worrying about cost.
That should be a good all around rod. I would put 10 -12 lbs mono on it if it's your only casting rod. You should be able to throw everything, spinnerbaits,buzzbaits,cranks, jigs,plastics, etc...what brand is your new rod?
Does anybody else have problems with the centrifugal brakes engaging themselves while fishing? Every Pfluegar reel I've ever owned and now my Lew's tournament speed spool will occasionally engage a break on its own while casting.