Baitcaster + Rod recommendations?

[fishin-fool]

Others might disagree, but as far as the braided line on spinning reels goes, there are very few things you could do to increase your catch rate more than switching over to braid w/ a flouro leader. There are so many advantages: smaller line diameter, no stretch, more sensativity, and w/ the flouro leader you can bust 'em in the really clear water as well. I like braid on a baitcasting setup as well, unless you're fishing a really specific pattern that is better with flouro or mono. Something like deep cranking for example. Just my two cents.

Interesting. So is a leader just a certain length of, in this case fluoro, tied on to the end of the braid? Sorry. Never used one before.

[CreekChub]

yeah, its just a line-to-line knot. Some use a swivel for the connection, but that can be annoying if you happen to reel it up to far into your rod eye. I dont mind to tell you all about the way I tie mine, PM me if you want.

[NedFlanders]

Thanks for all the help guys. I went ahead and bought some lures and a nice new big Plano soft tackle box at Sportsman's Warehouse instead of getting a baitcaster setup. However, I'm still planning on getting a baitcaster eventually (maybe when I get my tax refund here soon).

I like that Shimano Clarus, Ned. Looks like a really nice rod for the price. I may couple the 6'8" Medium with a Shimano Caenan.

I do have another question. What is the best type of line to use on a baitcaster? I've seen braid mentioned (however I've never used it before since I was told by a friend that you don't use braid on spinning reels). I tried fluorocarbon once but I wasn't impressed with it so I just stick with plain old mono.

No Problem...I have sent back a clarus and a crucial in the last year and they replaced them both with new updated 2012 model rods...If you are a rod breaker like me lifetime warranty replacement is the way to go...If you buy it at a reputable place you can just bring it back and get a new one....ask thier policy when you buy it just to be sure...Bass pro now requires you buy it at bass pro to return it thier for a new rod...at least that is what they told me...im not sure they are selling the clarus....but even if you buy it online at tackle warehouse shimano will still let you send it in and they will send you a new one and for the cost of shipping it is still well worth it....

[fishin-fool]

I went ahead and ordered the Shimano Caenan reel and the Shimano Clarus 6'8" medium rod. Ordered through Sportsmans Warehouse via store delivery. Also, they have a $20 off $120 or more at the moment. So I got $20 off! I'll let you guys know what I think of the rod and reel when I get them. Really looking forward to it!

[ls1chris]

A recent trip to the local walmart netted me a new baitcaster and rod combo.They have a abu garcia black max combo for about $69.


For the price of this combo to me it is very hard to pass up.The rod has a nice action with a good tip,The reel is surprisingly smooth and cast very well.


I have used it on one trip so far and i paired it up with 12 pound Pline cx premium and was throwing texax rigs,and medium diving crank's and works well.For the price it is i think one be hard press to find a better performing combo for the same money