First Baitcasting Setup

[Mike Nenon]

Hello all,

If you haven't heard kistler is having a bogo offer and I couldn't resist. Bought myself a helium spinning rod and when I came to choosing my free mag rod I didn't know what to get! I don't have a baitcaster and really think I need one so I grabbed this:

New 2012 Micro Magnesium All Purpose Med-Heavy 6' 9" Cast

http://www.kistlerrods.com/p/fishing-rod/c-Mic-Magnesium-Fishing-Rods/MicMgAPSMH69.html

Seemed like a good rod to start with and I got it for free! Now I need a reel! From my extensive spinning rod experience I know that shimano, Abu Garcia, and pflueger make nice reels. What should I get? Preferably under 100, but I can stretch my budget to $150 maybe

Thanks,

Mike

[jj'sbassinforfun]

Looks like a nice rod! Let us know how it does for you?

The Abu revo S is a good reel for the current close out price. I also like the SX if you can find one. Shimano has both the citica and curado in that price range. I do prefer the dual breaking reels especially for beginners. BPS has the PQ for around $100 + shipping. Lew's has the Tournament Speed Spool for around $150.

What ever you choose, You'll also need to consider gear ratio's. Slow moving bottom baits I'd go with a 7.1:1 ratio. All around(like the rod) I would go with a 6.4:1 ratio. The 6's would probably be my choice.

[Cody0707]

I'm not very experienced with baitcaters and my first good reel is a Shimano Curado 51e. I am in love with this reel. I am a beginner and I can still cast light baits and cast into the wind if need be. I love this reel. It is so smooth.

[Mike Nenon]

Alright.....I will look around and head to my local bps or dsg. Thanks guys! More suggestions are welcomed!

[Mike Nenon]

Just to let you guys know I got a good deal on a shimano curado 201 e7 from the flea market for $142 to my door!! When, and if, it arrives I will tell you how I like it, even though there are 50 billion threads about the reel!

Thanks for all your help,

Mike