Help choosing spinning rod and reel 2024
chromedog reply :
I am finally going to purchase a new spinning outfit next week, specifically for soft plastics and drop-shotting. I have been looking at the St. Croix Mojo with the split handle, but am really at a loss.
The reel, well, I have no clue, I want to be able to spool with 6lb yo-zuri and I want the reel to be light in weight.
What do you guys suggest for a good rod and reel?
What do you guys think of the split handle?
I would like to try and stay under $200, is this possible?
roadwarrior reply :
I suggest buying a combination, ON SALE, at one of the major
retailers. Focus on the reel: Shimano Symetre 2500FJ or Stradic 2500FI.
The rod the retailer matches up with this reel will be fine, just be sure it's
Medium Power/ Fast Action. Choose 6 1/2 or 7', which ever you are more
comfortable with.
A second suggestion is to keep an eye on our Flea Market. If you are
patient, you can usually pick up new or slightly use gear for 40-60%
off MSRP.
Good luck!
8-)
DOVERANGLER reply :
if you are fishing on a budget like myself, the way to go is to spend a little more money on a good reel that will last you a long time and a good rod. i get my reels from either bps stores or off line. the spinning reel that i fell in absoulte love with is the abu garcia cardinal 504 smooth as silk and durable, it runs about 80 bucks, and since i spent more than i normaly would on a reel i went to good old walmart and picked up a shakesphere excursion rod in medium 6'6", $14.95 and i couldn't be happier the reel is amazing and the rod as good feel and is durable under the load of even a 5+lb large mouth. and if for some reason the rod fails it is 15 bucks and i go to walmart and get a new one. i have spent big money on rods and i have found they are not worth it. i bought a st. coix i dont remember what kind it was but the tip broke off casting a worm and small 1/4 ounce wieght which was in the wieght limits of the rod. just some thoughts from my expirence
roadwarrior reply :
Quotei have spent big money on rods and i have found they are not worth it.
Well now...I don't believe many of our members would agree with you
on this. Kids need to start somewhere and a $15 rod is probably fine for
a five year old, but it's REALLY not enough for a bass fisherman.
:
SirSnookalot reply :
$ 200 isn't chump change, it's a respectable amount to pay for a nice outfit and no real need to spend more.
Stradic fi 2500 is as good as it gets and good deal on a combo makes it better. If not buy the reel and take in someplace and saddle it up to some rods and see which feels good. A shimino clarus for about 60 bucks would keep you under 200, you would not have POS.
chromedog reply :
Thanks guys, this is what I need.
I actually got an unexpected bonus at work and wifey said go ahead and get what I want as this was unexpected and comes from doing multiple jobs for my company and saving them a lot of money.
So I figure I am gonna get a few things I have wanted, but just couldn't justify it with a wife and three kids.
I have been really wanting to get a good plastic rod and spinning reel as well as a few more expensive lures that normally I just wouldn't do.
Muddy reply :
First off you are going to get a lot of suggestions, look for the ones from the fellas who have actually used what they are touting. That being said, all of these suggestions will be good, you should go to a tackle store and feel the rod and reel you want to choose, only you will know the perfect fit
my suggestion
Pflueger President X6735 60 bucks
Trielne XL or Stren Original Mono 8# test , this is around 6 or 7 bucks for 330 yards
Fenwick HMX 6'6" Med one piece around 80 bucks
or a Cabelas Fish Eagle 2 , same length/action also 80
That is right under your ceiling
Others will also have great suggestions, in the end I would go and check the ones out you are interested in
BTW J fowler, on our Flea Market has a used in good condition President x6735 for 40 bucks, you may wanna check that out
Stasher1 reply :
QuoteQuotei have spent big money on rods and i have found they are not worth it.Kids need to start somewhere and a $15 rod is probably fine for
a five year old, but it's REALLY not enough for a bass fisherman.
While I agree it's not necessary to "break the bank" to have decent gear, even my 7 & 10 year olds fish with higher-end rods than that. If you're patient and keep your eyes/ears open, you'll find good deals on decent gear. I just picked up a couple brand new Shimano Sonora 2500FBs for $15 each and a pair of Abu Garcia Conolon Premier rods to put them on for about $27 each. That's two complete combos for less than $100, including tax and line. Good enough for an adult, but inexpensive enough that I can let the boys enjoy fishing without hovering over their shoulders making sure they're taking care of their gear.
To the OP, SirSnookalot and roadwarrior have it right. Buy a decent reel that'll last for a long time (with routine maintenance) and match it with a quality rod that feels good in YOUR hand. What feels good to me, might feel like a twig or broomhandle to you.
chromedog reply :
Thanks guys, I really appreciate it. I am going to head to Bass Pro Shop after work tonight and put my hands on the rods and reels to see how they feel.
Muddy, thanks, I am with you on finding people who have used the stuff.
Now I know what feels good to me might not feel good to the next guy, but if going in without having some direction, I will spin in circles forever and they hate it at BPS when I wander for hours in there, lmao.
Raul reply :
Budget spinning combo:
Rod.- Shimano Clarus
Reel.- Shimano Sahara 2500
$140-$150
SirSnookalot reply :
Let me add this, I have the stradic and the clarus both about a year old, I don't recommend anything until I've used it for at least 6 months, reliabilty and durability are important to me. I bought an abu 704 lx last week, nice reel but not enough time on it to recommend it.
I did not mention the pflueger president for a reason, it does not have a sealed drag, which I prefer. However the pflueger supreme does have a sealed drag and it's lighter, that's what I have on my clarus and it's a very good reel( I love the outfit). I gave the nod to the stradic because it really is an outstanding reel, also has a sealed drag.
Lucky Craft Man reply :
One reel that I own 6 of and became the only spinning reel I use is the Pflueger Supreme (I like the 8035 model, but the 8030 would work for your needs as well). I haved used the Pflueger President and Pflueger Trion, which are both excellent reels, but the Supreme really surpasses them both. The Supreme has a highr gear ratio, which I like when keeping up with a charging smallmouth, and is lighter in weight. Again, I am amazed how Pflueger produces such good spinning reels at such a low price.
bilgerat reply :
QuoteOne reel that I own 6 of and became the only spinning reel I use is the Pflueger Supreme (I like the 8035 model, but the 8030 would work for your needs as well). I haved used the Pflueger President and Pflueger Trion, which are both excellent reels, but the Supreme really surpasses them both. The Supreme has a highr gear ratio, which I like when keeping up with a charging smallmouth, and is lighter in weight. Again, I am amazed how Pflueger produces such good spinning reels at such a low price.
That pretty much sums it up. And yes, I actually own one
Go elsewhere online and read the reviews if you're not sure.
chromedog reply :
Ok, what do you guys think about this:
Shimano Sahara FD Reel/Bass Pro Shops Extreme XPS Woo Daves Rod Spinning Combos
Reel:
4.7:1
21''
2/190, 4/100, 6/60
(LB/YDS)
Rod:
6'-8" ML
1 piece
Line/lure rating:
4 - 10 LB
1/16 - 3/8 OZ
ChiCityBasser reply :
I would suggest the Cabelas XML on clearance for around $50
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=cat21406_feat&id=0053032122638a&navCount=0&podId=0053032&parentId=cat21428&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=9IS&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true
I would match it with a Shimano Sahara FD 2500 or maybe 3000 which is around $80
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20166-cat20333&id=0060373123663a&navCount=3&podId=0060373&parentId=cat20333&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=QZ&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true
I have this combo with the XML being a ML and the Sahara 1000fd and it works great. It's one of the few combos I actually have braid on and has been a solid performer since I purchased it with it getting more water time lately
Lucky Craft Man reply :
QuoteOk, what do you guys think about this:Shimano Sahara FD Reel/Bass Pro Shops Extreme XPS Woo Daves Rod Spinning Combos
Reel:
4.7:1
21''
2/190, 4/100, 6/60
(LB/YDS)
Rod:
6'-8" ML
1 piece
Line/lure rating:
4 - 10 LB
1/16 - 3/8 OZ
I don't mean to be rude, but I think you will be surprised how small that reel is. I would suggest a 2500 size and if you really like smaller reels, then a 1000 size.
chromedog reply :
Your not being rude at all. I respect the fact that you guys are helping me out to make a good purchase based on your experience. I have little drop shot experience and this is actually my first year doing it and I like it, but still a noob at it.
chromedog reply :
I see the 1000 is about 6.9 oz and the 2500 is about 9.9 oz. I may go with the 1000 and put 4lb yo zuri on it, or depending on the difference when i put them in my hand, and go with the 2500 with 6lb yo-zuri.
ChiCityBasser reply :
QuoteQuoteOk, what do you guys think about this:Shimano Sahara FD Reel/Bass Pro Shops Extreme XPS Woo Daves Rod Spinning Combos
Reel:
4.7:1
21''
2/190, 4/100, 6/60
(LB/YDS)
Rod:
6'-8" ML
1 piece
Line/lure rating:
4 - 10 LB
1/16 - 3/8 OZ
I don't mean to be rude, but I think you will be surprised how small that reel is. I would suggest a 2500 size and if you really like smaller reels, then a 1000 size.
I have the reel in the 1000 size and it is small but its also a graphite frame which is fine for me and they didn't have a 2500 in stock when I purchased mine or I would have gone with the 2500 size.
The combo you suggested is pretty much what I have but the rod is the XML
cyph3r reply :
Ive used an extreme rod for many years and I felt that it was a great rod and a huge jump between the bionic blade. It is relatively lightweight and sensitive especially for the price. Also since you are getting it as a combo, the deal is great.
chromedog reply :
Thanks for everything guys. I am going to probably go with the 2500 as it gives me a little more option when it comes to line and 3 oz is not a huge deal. They actually have the combo with the 2500 or the 1000 with an extreme for the same price.
Stasher1 reply :
The Sahara 2500FB / BPS Extreme 6'8" ML is the combo you see in my avatar. I used that combo for floating/Trickworms for about a year and worked great. It pulled the fish in my avatar out of the weeds/pads just fine.
bilgerat reply :
Good luck with your new rig. Here's some tips:
Choose your line carefully. Don't go too heavy, 8lb test MAX, preferably 6lb. Sufix Elite or Trilene XL are good choices. With the drag set properly, 6lb is plenty.
Don't overspool. Leave about 1/8" of the spool lip showing.
VERY IMPORTANT Always close the bail by hand after EVERY cast. Using the handle to close the bail = major line troubles.
chromedog reply :
Cool.
I usually close the bail with my hand, all the time. Just a habit I guess.
How sensitive is suffix? I love yo-zuri in 6lb. strong and super sensitive.
bilgerat reply :
I was (still am) a diehard Trilene fan. I found the Sufix in the clearance bin at Wally World last year, so I grabbed it up. I've been very happy with it so far. I fish a lot of plastics and I don't have a problem with the sensitivity.
As with everything else around here, there are a million opinions on line. Find something that works for you and stick with it.
jarhead1970 reply :
I would stick with the Yo-Zuri Hybird Fluoro 6 or 8 lb and would get the Pflueger Supreme or if smaller budget requires, the Pflueger President (I own two of each and they are great reels; IMHO for the price,the Supreme cannot be beat).
The Woo Davis ML 6'8" single piece is perfect (i have two of them, they are fast sensitive and have plenty of backbone....caught an 7.2 lb. LM last week with one of them on 8 lb Yo-Zuri Hybird.
endless reply :
QuoteI am finally going to purchase a new spinning outfit next week, specifically for soft plastics and drop-shotting. I have been looking at the St. Croix Mojo with the split handle, but am really at a loss.The reel, well, I have no clue, I want to be able to spool with 6lb yo-zuri and I want the reel to be light in weight.
What do you guys suggest for a good rod and reel?
What do you guys think of the split handle?
I would like to try and stay under $200, is this possible?
i own the gandermountain tournament combo for 69.99 i think and the pflueger president xt combo for 79.99 but that combo i wanna say was a fathers daysale cause i cant find it any where else and bps around my way only carried during the sales. i love both. and in my price range. my wife wont let me spend much but i probably spend bout 150 no more than two when get a baitcaster,
endless reply :
QuoteCool.I usually close the bail with my hand, all the time. Just a habit I guess.
How sensitive is suffix? I love yo-zuri in 6lb. strong and super sensitive.
i use 8lb sufix elite in the green. my only problem is the knot tying especially on jigs. but everything else about is good to me. casting is real good. i was going to try gamma. but i think my next line is going to be xps flouro. i want to try that i have the 10lb seagaur carbon pro on my president xt and dont care for it.
chromedog reply :
Thanks for the help guys. I went last night to BPS and put a lot of the rods you guys suggested in my hand and I ultimately went with the BPS Extreme 6'-8" ML Dave Woo series with the split handle. I really liked the weight and balance of the pole.
For the reels, I must of spent and hour spinning handles before I decided to go ahead and go with the Shimano Sahara 2500. It was real smooth and as much as I hate to say this, I like the way it looked better than most of the other reels.
I am very happy with the combination of the two, very light and sensitive, exactly what I was looking for. Now lets see if I can catch some fish with it, lol. Oh, and I decided on 4lb Yo-Zuri to line it up. I will give you an update after the weekend when I have a chance to put it to work.
Thanks again!
Muddy reply :
Enjoy yourself to the Max. Go out and use em then give us a review, hope you stick a pig! 8-)
ymduhh reply :
I don't mean to thread-jack the thread, but I have been following this thread since it started on the picking of his rod and reel. But what is the recommended size for a rod to be picked? Because on some websites that I have been to, they come in all different sizes. I am also looking into getting a new rod and reel, and been reading up on your suggestions to Chromedog which is going to help me out pick something.
Btw Chromedog congrats on your new stuff =] hope you enjoy it!
bilgerat reply :
Generally speaking, a 6'6" MF rod would be a good general purpose stick. If you are just starting out, don't get all wrapped up with technique specific stuff yet. Keep it simple for now.
ymduhh reply :
Yeah, I am just trying to keep it simple for now and something that will last me as I learn. Thanks for the tip though!
chromedog reply :
Well I took the combo out both Saturday and Sunday and I set up with some nice roboworms. Well, I never stopped catching fish with it, so I never put it down. I think I landed 30 bass on Saturday and about 10 on Sunday in just over an hour.
I love the setup and this is my first time trying roboworms and I am impressed. The pole is so sensitive I managed to foul hook a 25" sucker that must of bumped my line and a crappie!
Nice and strong, yet sensitive as heck. I love the cut-away handle, it felt so light in my hand.
The Shimano Sahara is an extremely smooth reel. I got the 2500 and I never got tired holding it in my hand. I have to say I am extremely happy. Thanks for the great suggestions guys.
Crestliner2008 reply :
QuoteI don't mean to thread-jack the thread, but I have been following this thread since it started on the picking of his rod and reel. But what is the recommended size for a rod to be picked? Because on some websites that I have been to, they come in all different sizes. I am also looking into getting a new rod and reel, and been reading up on your suggestions to Chromedog which is going to help me out pick something.Btw Chromedog congrats on your new stuff =] hope you enjoy it!
If you mean what length of rod, this is personal preference. If you get something 6'6" to 7' in length, you'll do just fine. I prefer a medium-light action myself. Pick a rod with a good backbone, but a nice flex to the upper 1/3 to 1/2 it's length.
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