Pinners, just say NO to side casting and braid!

To the line issue, braid is the worst line ever for CP for many reasons:

1. Low memory line is good, but limp line is bad.
2. Bird's nests are very manageable with good mono CP line, braid is a nightmare just waiting to happen.
3. Make a few side casts with braid and you'll tear the line off the reel after you've torn every hair out out of your toupe.
4. Bring bandaids if you plan on strip casting or ever get hung up.
5. Braid will destroy your lightweight Recoil guides on your fancy Loomis CP rod.
6. Braid works best for backing.

IMO, side casts are the "cast of last resort". Like Todd says, use more weight and a bigger float, or maybe a better balanced system. Definitely learn other techniques such as the swing cast, Wallis cast or start up cast, before defaulting to the simple side cast. If you still like side casting or NEED the extra distance it can produce, learn the "spinning" side cast to reduce dreaded line twist. Truth is you really don't need to cast that far with a CP to be effective anyway, since one of the biggest advantages to the CP is the ability to "pay' out line smoothly under control. If you are going to intentionally introduce twist and destroy the direct connection to your terminal tackle for a little extra distance, you might as well be using a spinning rod. With practice you should be able to easily cast 3/8 oz. 60' or better without using a side cast. Save the side cast for the shorter casts in those really cramped spots or suffer frustration from line twist and tangles.

True that pinning is generally no better or more effective than other way of fishing, but it is definitely different and for me it's a whole lot more fun.

It's not for everybody, but if you've never tried it, don't hesitate to talk to a pinner on the river. Most I know are very happy to share what they know about this fun technique.