8# test braid all the way. Uni-knot always for lure-to-line connection or line to leader.
I tried using a float today with small soft plastics and 1/64 and 1/32 oz jigs. Killed panfish for over 4 hours in one area!!! Hook sizes were #8 and #6 to match lure body size.
Fish dragged it down like no tomorrow. Even caught a bunch directly tied to the jig using various soft plastics and the same incredible action and easy hookset. Nicest thing was making casts over 40' long and working the lure nice and slow in 3.5' of water.

Took a bunch of photos if anyone is interested. I'm sure everyone has caught 11" and 12" crappie under a float so it might bore some.