I think most people will agree that for light tackle, spectra is best suited to spinning reels and not bait casting reels, it's just too light for casting reels. Also, spectra can be tricky to tie knots, not to mention difficult as hell to break if you get snagged.

I use 30# mono on all of my smaller reals for fishing offshore, and 20# test on my inshore reels, and have no problems with either. I've even caught 30# red fish and cobia with my inshore rod with 20# test line.

I have two larger reals that I spooled with 65# test specta, that was only because I wanted as much line as possible on the spool because I use them for trolling.

I use braided on my two penn 8500 spinning reels for offshore but I use powerpro line its the best I've seen. Just dont snag the bottom. I've never lost a fish with it. They can even run in the rig that stuff just DOESN'T fray.