Newbie Questions

Hi,

After many years, getting back into bass fishing again.
Still consider myself a real amateur, though.

Use light weight spinning gear; bass around here aren't too big
(unfortunately).

I notice on my spinning reel that I have some line that I probably put on
about 5 years ago, or so.
Still seems to be in good shape.

It's Not monofilament, it's a black, thin, thread type.
If I remember right, and I might be wrong, I think it was call Fireline.

Sure is slippery, and seems to zoom thru the guides just fine.

Questions:

- If I tie it directly to a lure, do bass notice the black color as compared
to clear monofilament ?

- Should I replace it with monofilament, in your opinion ?

- Do most of you flolks use a barrel swivel between the end and the lure to
prevent line twisting, or usually
not really needed ?

Just out of curiosity: other than personal preference, I guess, what are
the rules of thumb for when a spinning outfit is more appropriate, compared
to a bait casting outfit, and vice versa ?

Thanks,
Bob