New Rod/reel/line

[Tkramer22]

I'm looking to get a new shimano baitcaster for christmas, I just cant decide which one. I'm trying to stay below 200 for the reel and under 120 for a rod. I also want some new line, the monofilament I've been using is crap. Also, any websites I can go to to get them cheap? Suggestions?

[Arv]

Depends on what rods/reels you're looking at. The Citica and Curado reels are already under 200 and there are a lot of good rods to be had for around 100.

[LgMouthGambler]

If you are willing to buy used or new off the ebay, you can go for the Curado E. If your looking for new at a store, go for the Curado G or the Chronarch E. All are great reels for under $200. If you are looking for a Shimano rod too, I would go with the Compre. As for the line, you need to get yourself a spool of YoZuri hybrid.

[roadwarrior]

If you are willing to buy used or new off the ebay, you can go for the Curado E. If your looking for new at a store, go for the Curado G or the Chronarch E. All are great reels for under $200. If you are looking for a Shimano rod too, I would go with the Compre. As for the line, you need to get yourself a spool of YoZuri hybrid.

Seems simple and straight forward. I would just add #12 to be specific about the Hybrid.

[Tkramer22]

Whatcha think about a citica e? I've read that theyre better than the g series.

[Arv]

Most will say the E is a better series. The closes comparison I have is a Curado 51e and a Curado 200g6 (which I just sold). I would say the E is more solid feeling in my hand where as the G series feels a little more "plasticy." Beyond that I honestly couldn't tell much of a difference. Others may say different, but thats my take.

[LgMouthGambler]

Have both the E and G Citica. The E to me feels better handling wise. Performance wise, I think they are just about equal after a good flush and lube.

[new2BC4bass]

Amazon often has the Fenwick Elite Tech Smallmouth rods for less than $120...sometimes less than $100. These are very nice rods. I have a couple. The *** *** rods are also getting some pretty nice reviews...starting at $100. I have none....yet.

Plenty of other rods such as Daiwa T and house brands as well as the Shimanos. Another rod I like is the Falcon Original...$90 at TW. Caught my PB this year with a 7' MH model.

[The Next KVD]

Simple: Shimano Chronarch E, St.Croix Premier ( Seen some new ones at Cabelas with the split grip handle that look sweet) and a spool of 12-15lb P-Line CX Premium.

[Bankbeater]

I would put Yo-Zuri #15 on whatever rig you buy.

[skeletor6]

Unless your flipping heavy cover I think 15lb yozuri with about 29lb breaking strength is overkill. Get 12 lb and call it a day.

Fenwick Elite tech smallmouth rods perform above their price definitely I only know about the spinning versions though.

I like how the curado e series fits in my hand better than the g I would choose the e.

If you want the best rod and reel for your money buy used. A lot of rods have lifetime warranties so you could get a nice used rod and maximize that $120 limit. There's a lot of good choices in the sub $200 range that you could find used for $120

[iabass8]

If you are dead set on sticking with shimano, the curado G can be had for around 160 and a shimano crucial can be had for about the same. that's in the ballpark of your price range and you would be pretty happy with it.

[Tkramer22]

Hmm, Its a toss up between the citica e and curado g. Ive read that theres little a difference between the two and ive found used citicas for under 100. I also heard that the g curado is kinda janky.

[LgMouthGambler]

get the Citica E, sent it to DVT for a supertune and crankshaft bearing, and put a Hawg Handle on it.

[VinnieT]

Ive heard good things about the chronarch