Rod, Reel, and Line

[Kfed5]

Hey guys, im going to get a new rod and reel. I want suggetions of good baitcast reels with reasonable price. I also want a very sensitive rod, and i want your guys opinions on line. Im thinking of getting braided, but im not sure. Thanks

[bplgocards]

Hey guys, im going to get a new rod and reel. I want suggetions of good baitcast reels with reasonable price. I also want a very sensitive rod, and i want your guys opinions on line. Im thinking of getting braided, but im not sure. Thanks

It really depends on what you want to spend. With baitcasters, you are going to get what you pay for. Bass Pro sells the Pro Qualifier sometimes for $79.99. I have a few of them and I would recommend them, they are great reels. Bass Pro also sells Tourney Spectial and Bionic Blade rods, 50$ and 80$. Again, sometimes the Bionic Blades are on sale, but I don't think they are right now. However, the Bass Pro graphite series rods are on sale, and they are a great value for the price right now ($20). I would get a 6' or 6'6" rod in M or MH action. I would recommend getting mono not braid, since you are likely going to birdsnest the reel a lot learning how to cast it, and braid is much more expensive. Try out Sunline in 14lb test, this is also sold at Bass Pro.

HOWEVER, if you want a good set up for cheap, I would go with the Diawa Strikeforce/Graphite Series rod combo at Bass Pro. As I already said, the rod is a solid value, and the reel preforms very well. It is currently priced at $64.99.

Here is a link to the combo
http://www.basspro.com/Daiwa-Strikef...05081/-1669300

Here are some links to the other products.

Tourney Special Rod
http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop.../44526/-948243

Bionic Blade Rod
http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop...10581/-1749644

Graphite Series Rod
http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop.../44303/-948518

Pro Qualifier Reel
http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shop...02287/-1650488

Sunline
http://www.basspro.com/Sunline-Super...13061/-1660286

[ewyrick1215]

I am on board with the pro qualifiers from bass pro. Have had one for a couple years and has held up well. I would also check out the temple fork outfitters casting rods. They are made by Gary Loomis. Has had one as a jig rod for a year and love it. They are about $100 a rod and you can get them at bass pro or tackle warehouse. If you want to spend a little more, I would suggest a shimano curado 200e7. Awesome reel for $140 now. Can't go wrong with the temple fork rod though.

[Kfed5]

okay i will check them out. My current reel is a pennicle i got for 59.99, just looking to upgrade.

[sthwht24]

It all depends on how much you want to spend. A rod that I really like that doesn't cost a lot of dough is the Berkley Lightning Rod. The newer ones can be found for around $50 and I've been impressed with mine so far. I also like St. Croix's Premier rods.

Ditto on the Shimanos. I like Quantum's baitcasters. The Tour Edition PT is a little on the higher end, but it is very smooth. For less money, you can go with one of their Codes which I also have and have been pleased with.

Don't forget to check eBay. I have gotten several rods & reels from eBay and, knock on wood, I've had a good experience every time. Of course if you have a big budget, go out and grab some brand new gear, but if not its a great way to save some big time $$$. There's always some risk to buying stuff online from people you don't know, but with their buyer protection it alleviates a lot of the stress.

[pointer]

Be careful with the rods with stainless or metallic eye inserts, as the line will eventually eat into the eyes and will abrade.

[Kfed5]

Thanks everyone, now i can figure out what i will be getting.