I like to use 25-30 lb fireline as a leader to the nylon line(rope). Not sure if they can see it or not, but haven't had one break off yet!

As far as laying it one the bottom, I would disagree. I had my bait on the bottom one time and was watching it on my aqua vu. A pike came along and tried to scoop it up but got a big mouthfull of mud, causing him to spit it out and carry on his merry way. Burbot like it on the bottom though.

Moults