My handlines are 75' of 5mm paracord with 25' of 900# 3-strand monofilament and a heavy snap swivel. The thick paracord is easier to pull in and much easier than a rod, especially when the boat is heeled. I have a couple of pairs of Berkely grippy fish gloves that are great for hauling the monofilament and handling fish.

Rigged ballyhoo are a great option that gets us hits every time. They come frozen in packs of 3, rigged with a couple of hook and wire leader. At $14-$17 per pack of three I usually pick up a couple of packs and run one along with lures.

Given a choice, I use wire leaders. But, even barracuda have never bitten through a nylon leader for me.

Cheers, RickG