Rod/reel Purchase Advice: Bass Pro Qualifier Combo Vs Jm Signature Reel

[9erNation]

Hey guys,

I'm new to this forum and fairly new to bass fishing.

My current setup is a citica 200g5 paired with g loomis gl2 6'6 mh-f.

I'm currently looking for a second setup, and would love some advice.

I predominantly fish of the shore, and feel like I can't cast my current setup far enough.

I was looking at both the PQ and the Johnny Morris signature reel (not the carbonlite). I haven't felt either in my hands, and don't necessarily know if the JM is worth the extra $60. Any information I currently have is through comparing the specs and reading online reviews.

My options right now include:

1) bps PQ/ carbonlite combo for around $160

2) BPS JM/ signature 2 combo for $250 (also thinking to maybe pair the reel with a st. Croix mojo bass)

I'd love to hear your guys' opinions on what route to take as well as what size rod to pair with it to widen the spectrum of fishing techniques I can use.

[*Hootie]

My choice, (and I work at BPS) would be the PQ Carbonlite combo. The reel is a proven winner, and the Carbonlite is one of the lightest rods around. An excellent combo for the money.

Hootie

[kschultz76]

I've used both the PQ reel and the JM Signature. There is a real difference, the JM has a smoother cast and retrieve, less effort required for an effective cast - the extra bearings supporting the spool and better quality bearings really make a difference. On top of that the finish is nicer and seems more durable. I bought a JM Sig and the returned for a PQ due to the price difference and bc I didn't like the handle grips on the JM. I often second guess that decision bc the reel was so smooth. Unfortunately only you can decide if you can justify the extra 60 for your use. I have 4 PQs and like them, but I am in the market for something more refined and maybe smoother for pitching applications. I do like the breaking systems and they're the same on both, but another nice feature on the JM is the clicking spool tension knob.

I personally have my eye on a Tatula Type R.

[9erNation]

Thanks for the advice Hootie and Kschultz

I do have a couple of questions.

Since you work there, I would assume that you've handled the JM. Do you personally feel that the extra bearings make it that much smoother than the PQ?

Also, Kschultz, having used both, you feel that the JM was smoother? What didn't you like about the grips btw?

Thanks guys

[kschultz76]

Without a doubt the JM was smoother, but the PQs are no slouches especially at their price point. The grips on the JM are those ribbed silicone jobs, for me they felt weird and were hard to hold onto. I prefer the solid grips on the PQ. Another thing that was odd was on the JM a plastic button was used to release the side plate, which honestly seemed like it would be prone to breaking at some point. But the PQ uses a solid aluminum quick release pin that seems much more solid.

If you're considering a 159 dollar reel I'd say research the Tatula just a bit. I've not used one but initial feedback on them is positive and they were well reviewed by tackle tour. The PQs are definitely a proven and known quantity in the market.

[9erNation]

Thanks, I'll take a look at it.

[9erNation]

Does anyone else have an opinion on this?

I'd really appreciate anybody's feedback

[DogBone_384]

I have one JM and three PQ's. I've fished mostly different sized worms this year and they all cast very well, and roughly similar distances, for my <24 month bait cast experience. I find my JM is a little quieter than the PQ's and I like the 'click' for each step on the JM's spool control, though didn't spend the extra $ on it for that reason.

I'll also add that into the wind my JM doesn't cast as well as my PQ's, and best I can tell, I've got them all adjusted the same (might be worth a thread on that?).

Honestly, I bought the JM because OT was good this Summer so I had the extra funds to try a higher price point.

[*Hootie]

Thanks for the advice Hootie and Kschultz

I do have a couple of questions.

Since you work there, I would assume that you've handled the JM. Do you personally feel that the extra bearings make it that much smoother than the PQ?

Also, Kschultz, having used both, you feel that the JM was smoother? What didn't you like about the grips btw?

Thanks guys

Yes, I have both reels. Four PQ's, and one JMS. Had 3 JMS reels, but gave 2 to my son. I would not let go of the PQ's. Really don't know why, since I use mostly my Shimanos and Lews. Just something about those PQ's that says hang on to them for now.

Hootie

[*Hootie]

And about the smoother question. In my opinion, not enough that it matters. At least, not $60.00 worth.

Hootie

[9erNation]

Thanks Hootie.

I've also been reading up a lot on the Lew's lineup: more specifically the speed spool ($99), tournament speed spool, and the Tournament Pro.

Most things that I've read are great. But I've also read that they are pretty much the same as the PQ/revo/JM/pfluegers.

Having used them, what is your opinion on them over the PQ and the JM?

Thanks

[Arv]

IMO the Lews Tournament Pro is head and shoulders above the PQ. But its also 2x the money. I would say that the PQ is comparable to the Tournament Speed Spool with an edge to the TSS. I can't say anything about the JM reels but you can't go wrong with the PQ if you ask me. Great reel for the money.

[9erNation]

Thank for all the advice everyone. Im pretty sure i decided to go the lew's route, but am now undecided between the Tournament SS or the Tournament Pro.

 

I guess i have a bit more research to do. It doesn't help that I have no dealer around me that sell Lew's products.

[Arv]

If you can afford it I would go with the Tournament Pro. I would say there is a noticeable improvement with the step up. Either reel should serve you well though. You can usually find either reel available for significantly less than retail price as well. The last TP I bought was around 150-155.