I have been using spinning tackle for years and know how to correctly spool the line and not overfill the reels using mono line and medium action rods with larger guides. Now I am going mostly to braid with a fluoro leader for better sensitivity, longer lasting, high-vis, and less loops, but I am having huge problems with the braided line having wind knots form on the first guide and complety stop the cast. Most of my fishing is with soft plastics around docks, skipping docks and around other shallow water cover. The line just ties itself into a knot on the first guide and occasionally on the second guide.
The only things that I have found to help this problem are two things: 1. Using a rod that has the larger guides (some companies have gone to the smaller cheaper guides) seems to help. 2. Also going to a shorter leader (one that the knot is located between the first guide and the reel instead of several wraps into the reel. I normally use 12 lb fluoro leader and 15-20 lb braid on a size 30-35 reel. I have tried various braids both stiff and limp and do not see much difference in these knots forming on the first or second guides.
Any suggestions or help would be appreciated. Thanks.