Question 1: if your going braid Power Pro all the way man. By far the best and only braid I use now. Never really had any trouble with it my spinning gear, obviously use swivels when using spinners, spoons etc .... if your running mono get some copolymer line, I really like Suffix Siege, best copolymer line I've used. Casts easy and is pretty tough. Or if your reel came with an extra spool run both types of lines depending on what kind of fishing structure/fish your targeting.
Question 2: I don't think theres a best time, depends on your area, conditions etc. Just get out there as much as possible and see what happens.
Hope this helps!
