Max,

We usually use a #2 level for chuck and duck in Great Lakes tributaries for steelies. Mono is too rough on the fingers and the #2 flyline shoots really nice.

All the old fly lines were level as I recall until they started tapering silk lines. Tapered lines cast better but you can learn to cast without them, e.g. Matt's son. I'm sure he will think he is heaven when he graduates to a tapered line.

Bob