Huntsman

Came into a little extra money, so decided to get a reel that will last. I'm not out on the lake often, and I realize that I don't need the best of the best. However, I figure I'll get my money's worth out of the stradic. Can buy one new for around 130, is there anything comparable in this price range that I should consider in terms of performance, weight, and durability? I'd prefer something with a similar ratio, around 6:1. If anyone has any other suggestions I'd be happy for the input. Thanks. (:

I'm just worried about how stiff the medium heavy's tips may be. I may also use it for lures like this if the action permits it. http://www.sportchalet.com/product/fishing/freshwater+fishing/freshwater+lures/301664_2120380.do Work great for both trout and bass. I intend to try out Yo - Zuri hybrid or ultra soft #6. The line diameter is .010 I believe. The line rating for the medium heavy is 6-17, so I don't think that'd be a problem..

What are the lure ratings for the medium's you normally use? The carbonlite medium 6'6'' has a lure rating of 1/8 - 1/2 oz While the medium heavy 6'6'' is 1/4 - 5/8 oz. I hear alot of people say they're over rated, as in their medium heavy's are similar to what other company's would call a medium and such.

Oh sorry for posting in the wrong area, and thanks for the article/video referrals Mark. I'll be sure to check out all of the links. Appreciate the help. (:

It looks like I have a tough decision ahead of me ;x Jigs, what's the lightest you're able to throw with your Medium?

Hello everyone, I'm not very experienced when it comes to bass fishing. I haven't really been out on the lake since my childhood. I live in Las Vegas, and intend to fish the Colorado River system, specifically near Lake Mojave. The water here is crystal clear. With the help of people in the rods/reels forums, I have decided I will most likely be purchasing a Medium or Medium Heavy 6'6'' Carbonlite rod and I'm leading towards a 2500 Sedona Fd for the reel. The only actual "technique" I know is T-rigging soft plastics If someone was willing to give me advice regarding how to best utilize this setup, or honestly anything to help me become a better fisherman I'd be grateful. Thanks for your time, Julien

Hm, do you think a medium heavy would still be able to throw stuff on the lighter side too? How versatile do you find your medium to be? Sorry for talking your ear off, just a little inexperienced when it comes to gear/setups. It'd be easy enough to lower my lure weight if the medium rods have other applications.

It seems to me that he's making the best of his situation. Kudos. He sounds like my dad.

Hm, the lakes over here are really clear, would that make any difference in power/size selection? As in longer casts? I'm torn between the Medium and Medium Heavy carbonlites for texas rigging. I'll probably be using 1/4 oz bullet weights. I think the Medium Heavy is only rated to throw an extra 1/8 oz though.

What power carbonlite did you use? I was considering looking for something in between 6'6'' and 7'. Is there much of a difference between the two?

Thanks for the advice guys, Jigs, how do you like your carbonlite? And what all have you used it for?

Do you know of any BPS reels that can compete with the President or Sedona? With the discount I should be able to get a 100 dollar BPS reel at about the same price as them.

Well that's good to hear, if I recall they have 1 year warranties correct? I really like how they feel in the store, it'd be nice to take one for a test drive, haha. On a side note, are you able to purchase a longer warranty? Some of the more expensive rods like shimano have over the counter lifetime warranties. The main reason I'm considering the BPS rods are the employee discount. However, if I think the about the long term, would it be worth it to pay a little more for a more durable rod? As for the reels, I've read quite a few reviews on the presidents, and even the reps their said it was quite popular. But, I didn't really have the option of reeling in any line, or testing the drag for either reel, but the sedona just seemed more comfortable when "reeling."

It does look like a nifty combo, however I'd rather not pay for the baitcaster model just yet, as I still have no experience with them. I also don't know how well bps reels perform in comparison to shimano, penn, or pflueger.

I went to Bass Pro tonight, and checked out the carbon series. The signature II series was especially nice. I ended up talking to the employees there for well over an hour, and they ended up giving me baitcaster lessons lol. Terry, (a sales rep) recommended I get a cheaper baitcaster, maybe in the 50 dollar range, with atleast 5 bearings to learn how to use them properly. He insisted that after you learn to use them properly, you'll rarely pick up a spinning rod for plastics again. I may consider picking one up. Has anyone tried out berkley lightning rods? Particularly the Amp series? They look like nice little rods, and I may pick one up from walmart to learn. Even though I see the benefits, I think I'll go with a spinning rod for now. I tried out the presidents while I was there, but I prefer the feel of the sedona in my hand, so I may go with shimano in the end. Gonna wait a couple weeks to see if the carbons go on sale. Anyhow, what are your experiences with spinning vs. baitcasters for plastics and jigging?

Appreciate the help guys, I'll do a little inquiring later today (: One quick question, do you think the rod would hold up to striper? I hear they're a little more aggressive fighters. Much more striper than largemouth in the lake. My friend regularly pulls out 20-40 lb fish, with the lake record at around 60. I don't expect to hook anything in that range, and I know it's not what this pole is made for, but would it handle a fish under 15 pounds fairly well? I already have some MH/H ugly sticks for bait fishing. So it's just a matter of what I hook while casting lures.

Hm, I'll have to run down to Bass Pro later today and check them out how they feel. Looking at the lure rating, they can only manage around 1/2-5/8 oz max load. Should I be concerned when texas rigging with 1/4 oz weights, using 5-7" worms and lizards? I believe I'd be right around 1/2 oz with a 7 inch. Also, thanks for mentioning the sale ^^. Looking at their prices they're between 70-100 dollars or so, but I believe the bass pro discount is around 40%. Any idea if that stacks with instore markdowns? Also, what $80 or so shimanos were you referring to? I may make the step up if I get a good deal on the rod. (:

Thanks for the tips (: . Looking at the carbonlite series reviews, it seems some people have had trouble with the guides falling out? Do you happen to know if they come with a decent warranty? Also, should I be looking at the regular or micro guide series? Have you had personal experience with these rods? And also in regards to the president, how well does it compare to other spinning reels in that price range? (~ $60). A buddy of mine recommended I go for a shimano reel, as they tend to last.

Hello everyone, I was turned onto this site today by an associate at Dick's Sporting Goods, who seems to think the world of you all. Anyhow, I'm relatively new to the bass fishing scene, not too many good spots here in Vegas without access to a boat. However, now that I have an aluminum boat, I'm ready to go! I used to fish primarily with texas rigged plastics, and had moderate success. However, this was years ago.I don't know how to work baitcasters, so I'd be more comfortable getting a spinning rod. I've been advised I should be looking for a Medium to Medium Heavy action 6-1/2 to 7 foot rod with a fast tip, and get the best sensitivity I can. I will most likely be using 10-12# mono on whatever I choose, and would like to experiment with other types of plastics/jigs. As more experienced bass fishermen, what would you suggest in terms of Brand/Price for the rod/reel? Which should I pay more for? My price range for both(total) would probably be up to 150 dollars or so, and my friend offered to let me use his BPS discount if I get a rod/reel from their brand. However this range is flexible. I'd appreciate any help, and look forward to speaking with you all. Let me know if you need any other information to set me on the right track, thanks!