Buying first reel: Stradic ci4 overkill? 2024

bass4you reply :

First off... first time post here! I've been absorbing as much information from these boards as possible. Reading everything I can find about bass fishing. I was debating on purchasing a Shimano Stradic ci4 as my first fishing reel. Is this overkill? Would a Symetre, Stradic FI, President be more ideal? I'm looking for something with great value and bang for the buck. I don't for see myself being a type of fisherman with tons of setups and probably subscribe to quality over quantity. I know Roadwarrior endorses this setup, but I was wondering is it too much for a beginning angler? I've read the reviews on the reel, but I still have a lot to learn about fishing. I was thinking of pairing this reel up with a Clarus or Avid. I'm just looking into spending my money wisely. Eventually getting a BPS Pro Qualifier, Citica E, or Curado as my first baitcaster. From what I have read the BPS is more beginner friendly. Maybe making one of the Shimano reels my third reel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

bass4you

BrianinMD reply :

If you got to spend it definately wouldn't be a bad choice but starting out would the extra money spent help in any way? Probably not.

Honestly any of the reels you mentioned, paired with either rod will perform very well for you. And the money saved could be used for more lures and terminal tackle.

Big Tom reply :

If you can afford it, the Stradic would be a great first reel. I use a friends (KYntucky Warmouth) and it has every feature you could want in a spinning reel. It is also exceptionally light which is another good reason to own one. I don't really think it is overkill at all. Its just a little pricier than what is usually recommended for beginners.

That said, those other options aren't too bad either. I really think you would be happy with any of those reels but the Ci4 is definitely in a different league.

bass4you reply :

Thanks guys for your quick replies. I know with baitcasters there is a much steeper learning curve, some more than others. I was just making sure a higher end spinning reel wouldn't be wasted in the hands of a newbie angler. I will have quite a bit of stuff to buy to get started, but I want to get the best reel for the money too. I don't have a ton to spend just wanna get the best I can hope to afford =)

Thanks!

bass4you

Stasher1 reply :

IMO, it really depends on your budget. If you have the $$ to drop on it, I'm sure you'll love it. However, if you have to skimp on the rod in order to be able to afford the CI4, I think you're making the wrong decision. Spend the majority of your rod/reel budget on a quality rod and then find a decent reel that will balance well with the rod.

If I had $300 to put into a spinning combo, for example, I'd be looking at $150-$200 rods and and $100-$150 reels. Of the rods you mentioned (Clarus an Avid), I'd definitely go with the Avid. I'd probably pair it with a Shimano Symetre, Shimano Saros, or Pflueger Supreme.

Raul reply :

I don 't see purchasing a good quality reel as an "overkill" even if it is a 500 dollars Stella or Steez vs a 50 dollars Regal, it really boils down to how much you want/have or are willing to spend.

roadwarrior reply :

Quote
IMO, it really depends on your budget. If you have the $$ to drop on it, I'm sure you'll love it. However, if you have to skimp on the rod in order to be able to afford the CI4, I think you're making the wrong decision. Spend the majority of your rod/reel budget on a quality rod and then find a decent reel that will balance well with the rod.
If I had $300 to put into a spinning combo, for example, I'd be looking at $150-$200 rods and and $100-$150 reels. Of the rods you mentioned (Clarus an Avid), I'd definitely go with the Avid. I'd probably pair it with a Shimano Symetre, Shimano Saros, or Pflueger Supreme.

Different strokes for different folks...

Most of my rig's costs are split 60% reel, 40% rod on

average. Reels may be more important for "catching",

but the reel is what makes "fishing" fun!

8-)

J Francho reply :

I think its overkill. you don't know enough or can appreciate the advantages of a CI4 yet. Get a Sahara, spend some coin on a good rod, and the rest on baits.

Chris at Tech reply :

I don't believe the Stradic CI4 comes with a spare spool, whereas the other reels you mention do.

I don't know if others feel the same way as I do, I find the spare spools that come with most spinning reels to be very handy. Being able to easily switch from 8 lb fluoro to 20 lb braid greatly increases versatility.

So with that said, I'd recommend the Saros or the Stradic over the CI4

bigfruits reply :

if youre not sure if youre gonna stick to the sport in years to come, it maybe an overkill.

if not, by all means get it. mine is in the mail (havent used one yet) but i think its probably not going to be the best bang for the buck. but i feel it will be worth the price. it might still be 20% off at reeds sports with free shipping.

if you end spending less, go for a stradic fi. $120 shipped online. no-brainer.

Grey Wolf reply :

Buy what you can really afford !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nibbles reply :

I can only say this - don't get it because you think it will help you catch way more fish. Get it because it will make your fishing experience more enjoyable.

A lighter, smoother reel with better high end components will feel better in your hands. Your wrists won't get sore as easily, and the reel is less prone to breaking down. Should it ever break, the warranty is likely to be better as well.

I like to look at it like getting a car. A Honda civic will get you from point A to point B just as well as a Bentley. But the latter will probably have a smoother ride, better handling, and be overall more enjoyable to drive in.

190sxchamp reply :

I'll start by saying that I absolutely love my Stradic ci4. One of the best reels I have ever owned. Very light and smooth drag and operation. If you have the money to buy it and put it on a quality matched pole, go for it! If your going to have to skimp on a pole because you spent $200 on a reel, you might want to reconsider. I have my ci4 on a Powell 703 rod and even my beginner girlfriend can tell a difference between it and her $125 spinning setup. I say you can never go wrong buying quality equipment. Makes fishing way more enjoyable.

vicdotcom reply :

Not overkill. But please do try less expensive rods/reels, even cheap ones from time to time. You don't want to loose appreciation for the finer aspects of your top quality fishing reels.

QUAKEnSHAKE reply :

I have a Stradic FI 1000 and a St Croix Avid 8'. I think both components are great but if I had to give one up it would be the Stradic. The rod has so much better feedback/sensitivity than the lesser rods I have. When I do put the Stradic on another rod I can tell Im missing out on the "feel" of fishing. I would rather fish a set-up of my $25 Pflueger underspin & AVID rod than my Stradic/$60 Wally Marshall Pro rod. So my thought get the best rod you can then get a good reel.

Mich. St8 Spartan reply :

Quote
I'll start by saying that I absolutely love my Stradic ci4. One of the best reels I have ever owned. Very light and smooth drag and operation. If you have the money to buy it and put it on a quality matched pole, go for it! If your going to have to skimp on a pole because you spent $200 on a reel, you might want to reconsider. I have my ci4 on a Powell 703 rod and even my beginner girlfriend can tell a difference between it and her $125 spinning setup. I say you can never go wrong buying quality equipment. Makes fishing way more enjoyable.

Have the same rod and absolutely love it. I had a Pflueger Trion laying around the house and it works great on the rod. My advice is to get either the rod or reel first and then take that into a store and try different combos of the reels/rods you think you want to see what feels best. If you will fish that rod exclusively make sure it is comfortable and light JMHO.

Redsyn reply :

I think the question is really how committed are you to bass fishing?

If you are not sure then I wouldn't spend that much money on tackle.

What is your budget?

If it is $300 then I would suggest you get a $250-$200 rod and spend the rest of the money on the reel. Baitcasting reel is another story. In bass fishing the rod I believe is that much more important than the reel especially spinning reel. To me all a spinning reel does is lay line when you reel in line. When fighting a fish you still have to pump and reel. Casting wise they all feel the same to me. Open the bail and line comes out. The most important thing to look for in a spinning reel is one w/a smooth drag.

My gloomis dropshot rod is about $250 and the reel I mount on it is a $40-50 shimano reel bought back in 2002. I think in all these years I serviced it once and it has been used in the surf/pier and for catfish. I lined it w/ 15lb powerpro braid and use 8lb flouro leader. It still works as good as the day I bought it. I was going to upgrade it w/ a daiwa sol spinning reel but I just couldn't pull the trigger because its still works good like it should and there isn't really much gain in performance compare to a $200 spinning reel. I mean how much drag will you put on 8lb line?

bass4you reply :

Wow! thanks for all the replies fella's. I've definitely come to the right place for answers. The reel is still on sale at Reeds. Which is what sparked my interest in posting this. If I was going to buy a symetre or stradic around $90-$140, why not spend the extra 20 to get the ci4 at $159.99(free shipping) while it was on sale. The main reason I'm thinking of going this route is because it seems like much better value at its sale price. From what I have read on this board better Rod > Reel majority of the time. So I was hoping to pick this up now on sale, and try to pair it with an Avid6'8mf if I could catch it on sale somewhere or used in the coming weeks. So would pairing this with a clarus would be a waste though? I was originally going symetre/clarus until I saw this reel on sale! I blame Roadwarrior for pointing the sales out! I'll be lurking here like a lunker bass awaiting your replies.

These forums rock!

bass4you

bigfruits reply :

Quote
I was hoping to pick this up now on sale, and try to pair it with an Avid6'8mf

you mean the 6'8" MXF avid? i have the LE version and i love it for many finesse presentations.

bass4you reply :

Well I was looking for an Avid between 6'6 and 7' Thought I remembered seeing a 6'8, didn't know it was extra fast only. I decided to pull the trigger on the deal. Sale ends sunday and all the other shimano reels on sale didn't have this large of a discount being applied. At retail it's $199.99 and getting it at $159.99 free shipping is a 20% savings. Now to find a rod!

Thanks for all the help!

bass4you

northern basser reply :

Personally, I would get the symetre from reeds and a XML form cabelas. Everyone is probably sick of me talking about these rods being on sale for $69.99, but It is a outstanding bargain. I have three of them, 2 spinning and one casting. The rest of my rods are high end brand name(Kistler, Dobyns). IMO the XML's aren't that far off of them in quality at all.

Like already stated, the $ you save can go towards lures. When it comes to bass fishing you'll need it.

bigfruits reply :

theres a 6'6" mf and 7' mf. i'd look into that 6'8" xf though. i think it would be nice paired with the ci4. i like the LE version for shakey jigs, light t-rig and jig, and weightless plastics (senko, ika etc). if the avid version has the same feel, i think you'll enjoy it.

dont hold your breath, still waiting on my reel. ordered last friday, according to UPS tracking, i should get it today.

edit:

i meant fat ika. totally different animal

bass4you reply :

Let me know! Awaiting my confirmation

ChiCityBasser reply :

Quote
Personally, I would get the symetre from reeds and a XML form cabelas. Everyone is probably sick of me talking about these rods being on sale for $69.99, but It is a outstanding bargain. I have three of them, 2 spinning and one casting. The rest of my rods are high end brand name(Kistler, Dobyns). IMO the XML's aren't that far off of them in quality at all.
Like already stated, the $ you save can go towards lures. When it comes to bass fishing you'll need it.

I agree with you on the XML rods and I have 4 of them myself. I have 3 spinning and 1 casting and they are great rods. They are even a better value at the sale price with a great warranty.

bass4you reply :

That does look to be a great price on Cabela's XML spinning rod. I wonder how long the sale will run for? Anyone else have experience with these rods? I don't have a Cabela's close enough to go see for myself. Just a BPS

grimlin reply :

Quote
Wow! thanks for all the replies fella's. I've definitely come to the right place for answers. The reel is still on sale at Reeds. Which is what sparked my interest in posting this. If I was going to buy a symetre or stradic around $90-$140, why not spend the extra 20 to get the ci4 at $159.99(free shipping) while it was on sale. The main reason I'm thinking of going this route is because it seems like much better value at its sale price. From what I have read on this board better Rod > Reel majority of the time. So I was hoping to pick this up now on sale, and try to pair it with an Avid6'8mf if I could catch it on sale somewhere or used in the coming weeks. So would pairing this with a clarus would be a waste though? I was originally going symetre/clarus until I saw this reel on sale! I blame Roadwarrior for pointing the sales out! I'll be lurking here like a lunker bass awaiting your replies.
These forums rock!

bass4you

Despite all the people saying it might be overkill....Honestly you got it right. You'll have a great first set up and will be extremely happy with it.

Just so you know...that combo is going to SPOIL you. ;D

bass4you reply :

I just want to spend my money the right way. I know with a more inexpensive setup I could have saved and got more tackle to start out. I don't want to regret not buying the better reel for $40-60 more. To me that's not that much more cash for what I've read is an outstanding piece of equipment. If I decided to not stick to the sport my father-in-law would inherit a sweet reel. I'm not trying to impress him or anything by getting such a nice reel to start, but I did find it at a much discounted price and I think he'll appreciate the fact I did my homework. Seems like with fishing you always keep upgrading until you get a setup you like. I'd rather just buy the best setup I can get and not worry about upgrading my spinning rig later. I work pretty hard so I don't mind spoiling myself every so often.

Can extra spools be purchased later on? I thought I read that a symetre or stradic spare spool would fit this reel somewhere on these forums. Or is it better to buy another setup instead? I think I'll be going with #6 Yo-zuri Hybrid Ultra soft and some soft plastics (Senkos, kreature, ika's, Zoom trick worms, Strike King rage tail baby craws) to get me started. Any other lures that are great to fish for beginning anglers like myself on a spinning setup? Is it gamakatsu hooks or nothing? What else compares?

Thanks again for all the help,

bass4you

grimlin reply :

Yes an extra spool can be brought...Contact shimano and they will sell them.You can ALWAYS get extra parts for the reel.

on doing your homework.

ChiCityBasser reply :

Quote
I just want to spend my money the right way. I know with a more inexpensive setup I could have saved and got more tackle to start out. I don't want to regret not buying the better reel for $40-60 more. To me that's not that much more cash for what I've read is an outstanding piece of equipment. If I decided to not stick to the sport my father-in-law would inherit a sweet reel. I'm not trying to impress him or anything by getting such a nice reel to start, but I did find it at a much discounted price and I think he'll appreciate the fact I did my homework. Seems like with fishing you always keep upgrading until you get a setup you like. I'd rather just buy the best setup I can get and not worry about upgrading my spinning rig later. I work pretty hard so I don't mind spoiling myself every so often.
Can extra spools be purchased later on? I thought I read that a symetre or stradic spare spool would fit this reel somewhere on these forums. Or is it better to buy another setup instead? I think I'll be going with #6 Yo-zuri Hybrid Ultra soft and some soft plastics (Senkos, kreature, ika's, Zoom trick worms, Strike King rage tail baby craws) to get me started. Any other lures that are great to fish for beginning anglers like myself on a spinning setup? Is it gamakatsu hooks or nothing? What else compares?

Thanks again for all the help,

bass4you

For the price you are getting the reel at it's a great first setup and I started out with cheap rods and reels before discovering the board as well. I did as much reading as possible and upgraded all of my first year equipment to the best that I could afford the same way you are doing by catching things on sale or clearance.

bass4you reply :

Yah I'm a pretty savvy, patient shopper. ;D

SoFlaBassAddict reply :

Is it overkill for your first reel? Probably.

At that price though, I can't blame you. Good deal on a fantastic reel.

northern basser reply :

Quote
Yah I'm a pretty savvy, patient shopper. ;D

Unless a person is well off you gotta be. I have some high end equipment, but didn't pay retail for any of it. I also probably shouldn't have bought some of it. You only live once, right?

J Francho reply :

I have both the Avid AVS68MXF and the shorter AVS63MLXF. I prefer the latter, with the CI4 2500 for most finesse work.

SJB1226 reply :

Quote
I think its overkill. you don't know enough or can appreciate the advantages of a CI4 yet. Get a Sahara, spend some coin on a good rod, and the rest on baits.

I totally Disagree with this..

If you can afford the C4I/Avid combo then go for it... having a mid higher end setup in the hand is great for a nub... you will have a high quality setup that fishes well and provides pride of ownership.. If it was me I would get a Daiwa Fuego A new off Ebay for the same price. (Im a HARD core Daiwa Dude.)

Go with the Avid as the rod.. you will enjoy it much better then the other...just so you know The Dicks are offering 20% off St. Croix At the Jax FL store It may be nation wide I dont know?

But get and enjoy the best outfit you can afford.. like one fella said dont skimp on the rod to afford the reel tho... The C4I and a Avid will make you smile.. Even if it is a Shimano.

SJB1226 reply :

Quote
I just want to spend my money the right way. I know with a more inexpensive setup I could have saved and got more tackle to start out. I don't want to regret not buying the better reel for $40-60 more. To me that's not that much more cash for what I've read is an outstanding piece of equipment. If I decided to not stick to the sport my father-in-law would inherit a sweet reel. I'm not trying to impress him or anything by getting such a nice reel to start, but I did find it at a much discounted price and I think he'll appreciate the fact I did my homework. Seems like with fishing you always keep upgrading until you get a setup you like. I'd rather just buy the best setup I can get and not worry about upgrading my spinning rig later. I work pretty hard so I don't mind spoiling myself every so often.
Can extra spools be purchased later on? I thought I read that a symetre or stradic spare spool would fit this reel somewhere on these forums. Or is it better to buy another setup instead? I think I'll be going with #6 Yo-zuri Hybrid Ultra soft and some soft plastics (Senkos, kreature, ika's, Zoom trick worms, Strike King rage tail baby craws) to get me started. Any other lures that are great to fish for beginning anglers like myself on a spinning setup? Is it gamakatsu hooks or nothing? What else compares?

Thanks again for all the help,

bass4you

Gammys are Great hooks... I ONLY Fish Owner hooks tho.. a lot of people will agree with me about Owner hooks being the best hook you can buy...they cost more but they stick easy and hold better IMHO then ANY other hooks... Trokar is a joke... Sharp yes (Sharper then Owners I cant tell) tips roll over on everything but the Flipping hook. FISH OWNERS!

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