New Rod, Help With Reel! 2025
Clackinrap reply :
Howdy! I've been getting into soft plastics a lot more lately and have been having a bit of difficulty setting hooks and recognizing bites on my off the shelf Ugly Stik combo from Dicks. I've also got an Ugly Stik with a Shimano Syncopate reel that I use for hard baits and the such.
Anyways... I went and bought a Shimano Sellus rod today and need a bit of advice on what reel to buy for soft plastics, specifically the weight of the reel and the maximum line weight capacity and so on, not just, "hey get a baitcaster!" Side note: I'd like to avoid a baitcaster (I know, I know).
I've also become quite fond of Shimano's Quick Fire trigger system. I know there are quite a bit of folk who are against these one-handed casting systems, but I've never broken a trigger and really prefer the simplicity of the one-handed cast.
Would another Shimano Syncopate work well for what I'm looking for, or maybe the Spirex? If so, which model? Thank you in advance, I know it sounds like I'm basically asking y'all to do my homework for me, but I've searched and searched and can only read so much, so I'd prefer personal opinions. Thanks!
Kevin22 reply :
Daiwa Steez EX would work fine! http://www.basspro.com/Daiwa-Steez-EX-Spinning-Reels/product/1303071237/?hvarAID=shopping_googleproductextensions&om_mmc=shopping_googleproductextensions&kpid=1303071237
(sorry I had to, you didnt say a price range)
My advice is to pick up something in the mid-range. Don't go real cheap (under $40 really) and I doubt you need anything like I posted above. Test one out at the store and see how it feels to you.
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/15/2013 at 8:47 AM, Kevin22 said:Daiwa Steez EX would work fine! http://www.basspro.com/Daiwa-Steez-EX-Spinning-Reels/product/1303071237/?hvarAID=shopping_googleproductextensions&om_mmc=shopping_googleproductextensions&kpid=1303071237
(sorry I had to, you didnt say a price range)
My advice is to pick up something in the mid-range. Don't go real cheap (under $40 really) and I doubt you need anything like I posted above. Test one out at the store and see how it feels to you.
I think $799 would empty my bank account right out haha! Thanks for the good laugh though.
What do you suggest as far as maximum line capacity and reel weight though? Should I be looking for anything specific?
Kevin22 reply :
Well for most plastics situation you should be using 10# line. Sometimes 6 or 8 for finesse but 10 is a good all-around line for spinning rod plastics. I would suggest something in the 4000 size. Syncopate is a good reel and should get the job done if you like those!
Dyerbassman reply :
I have a Syncopate and a Spirex in the 2500 size and love 'em both. I like the front drag models, but that's personal preference. 2500 is a good size for what you're doing. 4000 might be a bit heavy. I had a Spirex on a Sellus and really liked the way it felt and handled (until I snapped the Sellus in half!)
Darren. reply :
On 8/15/2013 at 8:37 AM, Clackinrap said:Howdy! I've been getting into soft plastics a lot more lately and have been having a bit of difficulty setting hooks and recognizing bites on my off the shelf Ugly Stik combo from Dicks. I've also got an Ugly Stik with a Shimano Syncopate reel that I use for hard baits and the such.
Anyways... I went and bought a Shimano Sellus rod today and need a bit of advice on what reel to buy for soft plastics, specifically the weight of the reel and the maximum line weight capacity and so on, not just, "hey get a baitcaster!" Side note: I'd like to avoid a baitcaster (I know, I know).
I've also become quite fond of Shimano's Quick Fire trigger system. I know there are quite a bit of folk who are against these one-handed casting systems, but I've never broken a trigger and really prefer the simplicity of the one-handed cast.
Would another Shimano Syncopate work well for what I'm looking for, or maybe the Spirex? If so, which model? Thank you in advance, I know it sounds like I'm basically asking y'all to do my homework for me, but I've searched and searched and can only read so much, so I'd prefer personal opinions. Thanks!
Spirex are fine reels. I have two of them, mostly used by my boys now, as I tend to use my Shimano Stradics and Daiwa Lexa when spinning.
The trigger system works flawlessly on both of my Spirex reels, both are about 3 years old now, and used in fresh and saltwater.
As for size, mine are a 1000RG and 2500FG. The smaller is a rear drag model, the larger, a front drag. IF you need to adjust drag, the rear drag model is awesome for that. Both are plenty strong and have hauled in some good sized bass, hefty cats, saltwater fish up to 6 pounds (so far)...
Personally, I see no need to go above a 2500 sized reel for bass fishing. I've caught numerous bass in the 4-6+ pound range on my 1000 sized Shimanos. No problems whatsoever. I also use 10 lb braid for mainline, so I get plenty of line on a smaller spool.
Kevin22 reply :
10# mono/fluoro on a 2500 is a great way to use up cheap line. It won't take but a few twists of a lure or a fish to wreck your day with that thick line on a small spool. You either have to go to a braid or drop down to 8#. Or invest in some high quality line with thin diameter, but you'll have more money in line on that spool than the reel is worth.
If you are going to fish braid then there is no need to go to a 2500 series even, a 1000 would be much better for using 10#-15# braid.
sarcazmo reply :
Can I ask why the aversion to bait casters? I was initially very leery but its MUCH easier than you think.
You can get a carbonlite rod/PQ reel combo for 160.
MichiganFishing1997 reply :
I like a 2500 size for my spinning gear. As for line, it depends on what it is. I spool up with 6# yo zuri hybrid that breaks at #12. I also like a #6 diameter braid. Its more personal preference.
loudcherokee reply :
Im gonna go out on a limb and recommend a mitchell 300xe. You can get them from walmart for $50. Mine handles braid well and has plenty of drag.
I grew up with a shimano quickfire triggercast. loved it. My only aversion to them now is the way the bail has to go backwards to reach that stopping point. Could mean the difference between a hooked fish and a missed fish when comparing to a reel with instant anti reverse.
LC
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/15/2013 at 9:14 AM, DarrenM said:Spirex are fine reels. I have two of them, mostly used by my boys now, as I tend to use my Shimano Stradics and Daiwa Lexa when spinning.
The trigger system works flawlessly on both of my Spirex reels, both are about 3 years old now, and used in fresh and saltwater.
As for size, mine are a 1000RG and 2500FG. The smaller is a rear drag model, the larger, a front drag. IF you need to adjust drag, the rear drag model is awesome for that. Both are plenty strong and have hauled in some good sized bass, hefty cats, saltwater fish up to 6 pounds (so far)...
Personally, I see no need to go above a 2500 sized reel for bass fishing. I've caught numerous bass in the 4-6+ pound range on my 1000 sized Shimanos. No problems whatsoever. I also use 10 lb braid for mainline, so I get plenty of line on a smaller spool.
I think I'm leaning towards the Spirex. My one question is, if I somehow wind up with a fat old carp on there, will this set-up be able to handle it. Had carps going after everything this year in our bays and creeks out here, even had my friend pull one in on a crankbait.
On 8/15/2013 at 11:57 AM, Kevin22 said:10# mono/fluoro on a 2500 is a great way to use up cheap line. It won't take but a few twists of a lure or a fish to wreck your day with that thick line on a small spool. You either have to go to a braid or drop down to 8#. Or invest in some high quality line with thin diameter, but you'll have more money in line on that spool than the reel is worth.
If you are going to fish braid then there is no need to go to a 2500 series even, a 1000 would be much better for using 10#-15# braid.
I wasn't planning on fishing braid, but will the 10# line really cause that big of an issue on the 2500? The Spirex 2500 is rated for 10/120
On 8/15/2013 at 12:16 PM, sarcazmo said:Can I ask why the aversion to bait casters? I was initially very leery but its MUCH easier than you think.
You can get a carbonlite rod/PQ reel combo for 160.
I guess just fear of something new. They seem a bit difficult and spinning reels are well within my comfort zone. Maybe it's time to pony up and make the switch though.
By the way, thank you very much everyone, quite happy I decided to join this community after being a long-time lurker. Nice to get opinions from real people, not just those poor online reviews haha
Darren. reply :
On 8/15/2013 at 8:57 PM, Clackinrap said:I think I'm leaning towards the Spirex. My one question is, if I somehow wind up with a fat old carp on there, will this set-up be able to handle it. Had carps going after everything this year in our bays and creeks out here, even had my friend pull one in on a crankbait.
You bet! I've watched big carp being caught on closed face Zebcos (old ones).
If you play the fish right, you can catch it.
roadwarrior reply :
Your hook-up problem has nothing to do with the reel, you need a Medium Power/ Fast Action rod.
As for the reel, this deal a member posted rocks!
[They were closing out the old ci4 for 79 at DSG to make way for the new one.]
Kevin22 reply :
You can use 10# on the 2500 if you want. You'll just have to baby it and watch for any twists then take the time to work them out.
The difference between 8lb and 10lb is huge when it comes to manageability. There is also a huge difference between the fighting ability between the two. 8lb you will have to "baby". You'll have to loosen the drag and fight anything bigger than 13-14". With 10# you can pretty much horse in anything up to a 3lb class fish.
As for the carp, that is totally up to the skill of the angler. I've landed many many carp over 20lbs on 4lb UL gear. One on 2# even. A whole bunch on 6 and 8 as well, fishing for walleye on the Miss. Set your drag correctly and let the rod fight the fish, wear him down and you will have no problems. Might take you 10-15 minutes but there should be no reason they will break off unless you have bad line or don't do your part during the fight.
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/15/2013 at 9:00 PM, DarrenM said:You bet! I've watched big carp being caught on closed face Zebcos (old ones).
If you play the fish right, you can catch it.
Pulled in a few fish I didn't think my equipment could handle before haha. Couple long nose gar's, had one about 38", took a few minutes of fighting with that one.
On 8/15/2013 at 9:59 PM, roadwarrior said:Your hook-up problem has nothing to do with the reel, you need a Medium Power/ Fast Action rod.
As for the reel, this deal a member posted rocks!
[They were closing out the old ci4 for 79 at DSG to make way for the new one.]
The Sellus that I just bought is a Medium Heavy / Extra Fast, hoping this does the trick!
On 8/15/2013 at 10:53 PM, Kevin22 said:You can use 10# on the 2500 if you want. You'll just have to baby it and watch for any twists then take the time to work them out.
The difference between 8lb and 10lb is huge when it comes to manageability. There is also a huge difference between the fighting ability between the two. 8lb you will have to "baby". You'll have to loosen the drag and fight anything bigger than 13-14". With 10# you can pretty much horse in anything up to a 3lb class fish.
As for the carp, that is totally up to the skill of the angler. I've landed many many carp over 20lbs on 4lb UL gear. One on 2# even. A whole bunch on 6 and 8 as well, fishing for walleye on the Miss. Set your drag correctly and let the rod fight the fish, wear him down and you will have no problems. Might take you 10-15 minutes but there should be no reason they will break off unless you have bad line or don't do your part during the fight.
I ended up purchasing the Spirex 2500, I'm gonna go ahead and string up some 10# line and see if it gives me issues.
Regarding the carp, I watched my buddy pull a 31# carp out on an ultra light ugly stik with the stock shakespeare combo reel it came with. Took him about 15 minutes and his arms were burning, but we got that bad boy up in the boat haha.
Clackinrap reply :
Ran into a slight dilemma. Just realized the Sellus rod I bought has a trigger handle and pretty sure I need to use a baitcaster with it. Back to the drawing board, suggestions on cheaper baitcasters for someone starting off using them?
WRB reply :
Take the bait casting rod back and exchange for spinning rod.
Tom
JD96 reply :
Good for you!
Shimano Citica is a good reel for entry level baitcasting, I have a Caenan with graphite frame that I actually like, reeled in some nice fish on it with no issues, just not as smooth as other Shimano reels are.
If you look you can find a lightly used Curado 200E which will be the best for the money.
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/19/2013 at 5:18 AM, WRB said:Take the bait casting rod back and exchange for spinning rod.
Tom
I like this answer. Haha thanks
Clackinrap reply :
Captain stupid here. Replaced the baitcasting rod with a spinning rod, and the guides look messed up.
Can someone verify if they are indeed messed up? Cropped and zoomed a photo to show the 2nd to last guide before the tip is smaller.
JD96 reply :
Looks like the worker who assembled that was ready to go home that Friday afternoon.
Kevin22 reply :
Return it. Again.
Mike2841 reply :
Ya I would return it again. Also as far as inexpensive reels go I like the abu cardinal series, I have 3 that I've been using for 6 years with no problems
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/20/2013 at 10:14 AM, JD96 said:Looks like the worker who assembled that was ready to go home that Friday afternoon.
On 8/20/2013 at 10:23 AM, Kevin22 said:Return it. Again.
Haha I'm having a real tough time getting this setup out on the water 
Good thing my reel doesn't arrive till Thursday.
Clackinrap reply :
Edit: Nevermind
Blues19 reply :
Hey man, I just saw this post. My first reel I got was a Spirex and it has preformed amazingly for a long while. As I was reading your first post, I immediatly thought of the Spirex. As for a rod, (If you are close to a Bass Pro) I would look into the Bass Pro Bionic Blade rod (The Maroon and Red one, not the White). that is what I have my Spirex paired with and I have caught too many fish to count on it. Those are $80. Very reasonably priced, sensitive, and a tough rod. I hope you have better luck with your next rod.
P.S. I was like you and didnt want to start to try the baitcaster cause it seemed like a pain the tooshy with the backlashes and stuff. It really isnt too bad. As you get better you can loosen it up and throw the bait further. I have trouble picking my spinning reels up anymore. But, I understand wanting to stick with what you know. Keep catching those fish!
Clackinrap reply :
On 8/22/2013 at 9:03 AM, ataris41 said:Hey man, I just saw this post. My first reel I got was a Spirex and it has preformed amazingly for a long while. As I was reading your first post, I immediatly thought of the Spirex. As for a rod, (If you are close to a Bass Pro) I would look into the Bass Pro Bionic Blade rod (The Maroon and Red one, not the White). that is what I have my Spirex paired with and I have caught too many fish to count on it. Those are $80. Very reasonably priced, sensitive, and a tough rod. I hope you have better luck with your next rod.
P.S. I was like you and didnt want to start to try the baitcaster cause it seemed like a pain the tooshy with the backlashes and stuff. It really isnt too bad. As you get better you can loosen it up and throw the bait further. I have trouble picking my spinning reels up anymore. But, I understand wanting to stick with what you know. Keep catching those fish!
I might need to check the Bionic Blade out, thanks for the tip.
Anyone have any new suggestions on a rod to pair with my Spirex 2500 reel. The THIRD Sellus I exchanged for was defective as well, and when I ordered the rod from DSG's website, the order was cancelled as they were out of stock!
Needless to say, I need opinions on a nice medium-heavy rod for flipping and pitching worms and plastics in some relatively heavy cover, hopefully under $100. DSG's also gave me a 20% off coupon for my troubles, so I was looking at the St. Croix Mojo Bass 7'0" MHF if anyone can provide an opinion on this. I have an issue with setting hooks on my soft plastics so initially I was trying to find an extra-fast action, but I'm at wits end. I'd hate to waste my 20% coupon (it's only good for 30 days), but I'm open to any stores as well. Thanks so much!
Cgrinder reply :
Dick's should have St. Croix Triumph rods. I have a ML 7' that is very good. $80 too.
Kevin22 reply :
You should be able to pick up a st. croix premier for around $100 then. I would do that. Made in USA and has a 5 yr warranty.
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