Need Input On Setup

[jbone177]

I just got back into bass fishing this past summer.  I hadnt been out since I was a little kid (never had any success).  Im 27 now.  I bought a cheap 6' Quantum spinning rod/reel Medium Action but Im looking to add a rod/reelfor this upcoming spring.  This wont be the only rod/reel I plan on purchasing and Im not partial to the one I currently have (I think it was like $40 total).  Im hoping to have maybe three rods total that cover as much as possible. 

 

I live in southeastern NY and primarily bank fish.  I'll be primarily using soft plastics Texas, or drop shot rigged, as well as jigs, and some topwaters (buzzbaits, poppers, frogs).  I rarely use crankbaits but I do have a few.  I was planning on picking up a Revo S and Veritas rod in MH/F.  Havent decided on length though, and Ive read that the veritas rod actually acts stiffer than rated (so maybe a Medium/Fast?).  Im hoping you guys could point me in the right direction and give me an idea as to what this rod/reel combo would cover, and what other rod/reel combos I should consider down the road to have a well rounded three rod setup for the techniques I like to use. 

 

For what its worth I have been reading a ton of threads and doing a lot of searching.  The amount of information on this site is astounding.  Nevertheless, it is still overwhelming to sort through all of it.  I hate adding to the seemingly infinite number of threads asking questions that have likely already been answered, but I cant help it!  I want to be absolutely sure before I start spending $$ anywhere.  Thanks for your help!

[LgMouthGambler]

I would just get a Revo S on a new Vendetta rod in a M, and spool it with 12# YoZuri. You will be able to cover many types of fishing while bankining it.

[Sam]

May I suggest the following without any brands mentioned?

Rod - Medium Heavy 7-foot graphite spinning rod with a fast action tip.

Reel - 2500 spinning reel.

Line - 8 pound flourocarbon test line.

This setup can be used for just about all spinnerbait presentations and techniques.

ALWAYS BE AWARE OF THE ROD'S SPECIFICATIONS AS TO LINE TEST AND BAIT WEIGHT AND BE SURE TO STAY WITHIN THESE PARAMETERS FOR YOUR REEL, LINE TEST AND BAIT SIZE.

There are rods for every presentation so don't drive yourself crazy trying to hone in on one specific technique.

Get a spinning rod that can be used for various techniques with the baits you like to throw and under the conditions you fish.

As for baitcasters, do the same by always viewing the rod's specifications and then matching them with your reel, line and baits.

You don't need to spend a fortune, either. BPS, Cabela's and just about all rods are very good and as you get acquainted with the baits and techniques you like to throw you will be able to focus on other rods and reels to add to your collection. You can find a good rod for $50 and a spinning reel for $50. Just look around and find what you feel confortable with fishing.

You will find out what we all have found out: starting your rod and reel collection is fun and you will select a clunker or two. As you move up the economic ladder of success you can upgrade to the G. Loomis and Megabass rods and the high level reels.

The problem is that the fish have no idea of how sensitive or expensive your tackle is. I have fished with a guy who used a $20 rod and a cheap reel and watched him win a bass tournament. He also caught a big fishin a tournament on the Chickahominy River fishing out of my boat with his low-end equipment.

Once the rods or reels break he throws them away and gets another cheap one.

Go figure.

[jbone177]

Appreciate the input so far!  I should have clarified that I am actually looking at getting a baitcaster.  Although Im not necessarily partial to any particualr method or type of equipment, I really want to try it.  I'll eventually upgrade the spinning rod I have now, but Id like to venture into something new (baitcasting).  Ive just been worried about spending the $ on something I'll wind up getting rid of especially since I'd like to keep it to two or three rods/reels. 

[LgMouthGambler]

Since you were looking into the Revo S, you are making a good choice for that brand. You won't be disappointed, many on here would tell you that. I'm a Shimano guy, but still know the S is a great reel, and will serve you very well. If you decide to get rid of it, people will buy them, but I doubt you will.

[Arv]

A Veritas and a Revo S would make a nice set up. I would go for either the M/F or MH/F. Since you are bank fishing I would lean towards the M/F, especially with the Veritas. Other rods to consider at that price point: St. Croix Mojo Bass, Shimano Compre, BPS Carbonlite and now a lot of people are talking about the *** ***. Other reels might be a Shimano Citica and BPS Pro Qualifier. You may also be able to find some really nice deals on higher end equipment in the flea market. But if you are looking to buy new, I don't think you could go wrong with anything I mentioned above. Good luck!

[jbone177]

Thanks again guys!  And I will certainly look into the other rod/reel combos as well. I appreciate the help!

[NBR]

Any of the current midrange bait casters will suffice with practice. Some will require more practice than others. While going to the higher end products might be helpful cost versus performance becomes suspect.

[jbone177]

Would the length of rod I choose affect the action I should pick?  For instance will getting a 6'6" M/H F act differently than a 7' M/H F ? Id like the greater casting distance afforded by the longer rod but I fear getting tangled on nearby brush/trees.  I was thinking of going with a 6'6" M/F.  I went to Dicks Sporting Goods to try to compare but they only had two 7' MH/F rods, nothing else. 

 

Also the MH rods are rated for up to 1oz. lures whereas the Mediums are only 5/8oz. I guess it would be nice to also have the wider range of options for lures. 

[rippin-lips]

Would the length of rod I choose affect the action I should pick? For instance will getting a 6'6" M/H F act differently than a 7' M/H F ? Id like the greater casting distance afforded by the longer rod but I fear getting tangled on nearby brush/trees. I was thinking of going with a 6'6" M/F. I went to Dicks Sporting Goods to try to compare but they only had two 7' MH/F rods, nothing else.

I have a 6'10 7' 7'3 MH/F and they all feel the same to me. 6'6 is good if you're in close quarters.

[KYntucky Warmouth]

For three rods to cover the field I would say 7'M-F and 7'MH-F casting, 7'M-F spinning. The main thing is to try to get hands on with the rods if possible.