When I bought my first good casting reel many years ago, I bought it from a small tackle shop. I paid half down, and paid the reel off the following week. When I made the first payment, the shop owner told me to be sure and bring my rod when I picked up my new reel. He liked to do this on all the new reels he sold if possible. By doing this, you could see how the reel would work with your rod. Weight, balance, and overall feel, could make for better more accurate cast. Since many of us shop on the internet nowdays, this isn't always possible. This winter I plan on upgrading a couple of rods. I buy most of my stuff at Academy, and I plan on taking my reel along and mounting on the rod before I buy one. I rarely if ever see anyone else do this but that's ok. It can make a difference in how the rod will perform for you. If it doesn't feel right, you can choose a different model, that will work better with your line choice, casting style etc. Do you try and do this with rods if you can? I still think it's the best way to buy a new rod.I would really like to take it out to the parking lot and make a few cast, but, that's probably asking too much. I'll probably be the only guy carrying my reel into Academy, but I don't care. I want the rod that works best, with the reel I plan on using. Anyone else like to do this too?
