RE: Baitcasting Reel Suggestions
2008/06/13 12:14:17
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If your price point was a bit higher, I would recommend the Abu Garcia reels. I have had several and they all performed well. I am currently using a Professional Rocket and it is very nice. Shimano makes a fantastic reel called the Calcutta. I have had one for several years and absolutely love it. Another good reel I like is the Pflueger President. It is a tough little low profile reel that fits perfectly in my hand and is easy to cast.
I personally I like baitcasting reels and prefer them to spincast reels for most applications involving either throwing larger lures or large amounts of bait. Of course, when using small spinners, or light baits, the spinning outfit is the choice.
One thing to consider is the line. I pretty much have gone exclusively to Power Pro on my casting reels. I like the performance of the line, but I also find that it is way easier to pick out a backlash with the Power Pro than with mono. It will cost a bit to fill the spool on a baitcaster, but what I do and many others as well, is to put on a good deal of cheap mono for backing and only spool up about 100 yards of the Power Pro. That way you have plenty of line for fishing, but not a ton of expensive line just taking up space on your reel. When it comes time to change the line, simply spool off what is left of your 100 yards, and put on another.
Good luck in finding your new reel. Hopefully it will be exactly what you are looking for.