I am looking to upgrade my current spinning reel, abu Garcia orra s30, with either a shimano nasci 2500 or a Pflueger supreme xt 30.
I will be pairing this reel with a fenwick hmg 6'9" medium light fast action spinning rod and possibly a fenwick elite tech 6'10" medium light extra fast spinning rod.
My main use will be for fresh water drop shotting, in line spinners, and possibly shakey head techniques. I fish in Ontario, Canada and mainly target largemouth and smallmouth bass with the occasional pike, perch, trout, etc.
What are your thoughts and/or experience with these spinning reels?
Is there a preferred gear ratio or line retrieval amount with the techniques mentioned?
Is rod and reel balancing an important part of the equation or will a balancing kit be best?
I played with both in store and both felt smooth and a definite upgrade to my current reel. The shimano felt smooth but heavier. The Pflueger felt lighter and equally smooth.
Thank you for your time and opinions.