Delaware Valley Tackle

Ya a rod is really just a lever plus you fish it on multiple planes. Accuracy is more affected by release point, length and action plus the hundred variables.

For raw casting distance spinning tackle is the way to go. No moving parts, braking or thumbing involved.

No blank is arrow straight. It won't affect a thing.

I focus on action and getting bites first and keeping them buttoned second. Topwater and jerkbaits I like a fast mod fast but with a soft tip. These are often labeled as popping rods. Too slow of an action can make it hard to impart more subtle movements.

If you'd like, contact me about building something with a custom grip in either spinning or casting configuration to help.

Skill

Or claim to have. ?

Verify that the mag brake adjustment is working. Pull the side plate and watch the magnet as you adjust the knob (out for more brake in for less).

The ABU has a non disengaging levelwind. The Calcutta is much more free spinning. Ease up and/or tighten the cast control cap. Their just two different animals.

The line sizes on a reel are just for capacity info. You won't hurt anything going outside the parameters. Performance may be poor if you go beyond reason.

What you're seeing is more likely the result of cleaning the excessive grease from the reel than any inadvertent damage. If you decide to go with new gears replace the set. You can get parts directly from Daiwa.

It depends on how you define "better", many variables and personal preferences. My favorite are the E series 50's. Performance, size and simplicity. However parts are already getting discontinued.

If there are obvious symptoms a cleaning is probably a good idea

A brief submersion in relatively clean water is not a crisis. Let it dry , oil what you can reach and monitor for developing symptoms. Contact me after the season to schedule a service or if problems arise in the meantime.

If you're experienced or especially skilled you can minimize the visual affect of the repair but it will not be invisible.

I can only vouch for the avid.

The same rod you fish similar weight jigs or t rigs with will work fine.

Do you cast a drop shot or just fish it vertically? I'll sometimes use a weight vertically that may overload a light rod if casted too aggressively.

It's more likely dirt in the spool race or on the lip. Swab it all and see if that helps before you start opening it up. some of the new Shimano's are finicky. I like the E series better personally.

St Croix has a robust lineup of models and are high quality, but be careful with technique specific rod labels/choices. Rather than trust any manufacturers opinion alone, post here what you're looking for and gather opinions to factor in with your own experience. For best results keep an open mind and willingness to mix and match brands.

A rod will last indefinitely. A reels lifespan can be affected by a number of variables (quality, use, maintenance, conditions etc). I don't think you can set any firm timetable for replacement. Upgrading for the sake of it is completely up to you.

Whatever brand and model with the style and features you prefer won't let you down. None stand head and shoulders over the others at the price point you're looking at.

Rodgeeks makes a glass blank with a graphite or composite butt. Has a slim butt and unique feel. Customers I've built them for love'em.

Using 20# mono on a spinning reel.

There are numerous ways for water to get into a casting reel. That's why they often have a drain vent. If properly cared for nothing to worry about.