Darren.

The Costas seal the deal. She's hooked! Rod/reel combo looks great.

The CI4 and 4+ were really pushed to me -- in a good way -- but I just didn't like the foam grips. I love my FJ reels more than my FI reels, but both are excellent. The thing that I loved about the CI4+ was the weight. The older I get the lighter the gear I like, LOL. But at this stage, if I were to get another spinning reel, it'd probably be an FK, unless I found another FJ 1000. To each his/her own as far as like/dislike. Opinions are like ...you know... everyone has one.

No superstitions for me... Nope. None... Wait!! If I forget to bring a scale, I always catch a new PB!!

Awesome fish!

I normally use backing on all my reels. Yes, all are braided mainline. But when I got a steal of a deal on a 1500 yard spool of PP Super Slick 8 in 15# test, I chose to spool two of my spinning reels 100% braid. Too thin for my casting reels, so in order to get more braid for my money, I'll continue using backing unless money is no object.

Now THAT'S a knife! Sword...ok, but who cares....

Welcome aboard! Almost impossible to do an analysis of that bass even with your friend's height. How far is the bass in front of him, etc., are other things that would need to be known. The bottom line is any of us will only provide a best guess. In the 4 pound range is mine. Sorry it is so wide, but tough to know for sure. It has a good-size head, probably a female and all spawned out... Just my .02. Others may have a better guess.

Wow, nice haul!

Can't help you with rod pods, but seeing it is your first post, welcome to the forums! Others with experience using them will chime in....

TedderX, that is why I don't fly fish. No really, I tried it and didn't like it. Prefer spinning and casting, myself. Now when you talk Tenkara, or long pole fishing, that's a different story.

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard, Ricky! Friendly tip, typing in ALL CAPS, is seen as yelling which I am sure you are not trying to do.

Awesome trip! Congrats!

Fantastic! Gosh I wish they stocked smallies down here in SE VA!!

They are quite good. I use them a lot. Buy a pack, or three for $10 and fish them only for an outing and see how you do

Welcome aboard! Good answers above. Avoid scams, go through vetted sources or straight from manufacturer.

Welcome aboard!

That looks awesome! I LOVE DIY yak stuff...

Welcome aboard, Alejandro!

Bottom line for you - or best bet is to get your hands on different reels in the store and see which ones fit your fancy. We'll tell you Shimano, Pflueger, Daiwa etc., but you'll have to be the final judge. At least you know what good experiences we've all had with reels we prefer.

I can tell you I love the 1000 size Shimanos. Stradic is very tough to beat, IMO. Probably the best value in the Shimano lineup. You might be able to find a CI4+ on eBay or here in our Flea Market at the high end of your range. I don't have one, but the weight savings are excellent. I have 2 FI models and 2 FJ models.

Beauties! Nice ladies!

Welcome aboard, Lee! Again

Welcome aboard!

Fantastic! It is so fun when a nice bass takes you for a ride in your yak.