Rod Reel Setup Help... Abu Garcia

[trisdisp57]

I was just gifted an Abu Garcia Rod and Reel combo bought by my wife for my first bait caster.  From what I can tell she bought me it from one of the chain sporting goods stores, starts with a D.

 

 I was wondering how to set it up, what type of line, what should I put on the line (weights/hooks/swivels). I'm pretty new to fishing and I don't have that much experience. I fish from the shore so far in 2 different ponds in long island, NY. The main pond I fish at is pretty shallow 3 ft- 7ft in some areas and water is pretty clear with some weeds stumps and rocks. They say the pond has blue gill, trout (stocked), black bass, pickerel, and maybe some other odds and ends. I haven't caught very much from there and want to maximize my chances. Any help would be very much appreciated.

 

Rod and reel specs:

 

Abu Garcia Black Max/Vengeance Baitcast Combo

This baitcast combo is outfitted with the Black Max reel, complete with Mag Trax™ braking, Power Disc™ drag, and Duragear Brass™ gears to enhance performance. Matched with a 24-ton graphite Vengeance rod, the Abu Garcia® Black Max™/Vengeance™ Baitcast Combo sports a medium-heavy power that easily handles a variety of conditions.

FEATURES:

• Abu Garcia® combo of Black Max Reel and Vengeance Rod
• Mag Trax™ magnetic braking
• Duragear Brass™ gear enhances performance and extends the life of the reel
• Power Disc™ drag system
• 24-ton graphite rod blank
• Stainless steel guides with zirconium inserts
• Solid 1 piece blank design
• Abu Garcia

SPECS:

• Models: BMAX2/VNGC69-6/BMAX2-L/VNGC69
• Length: 6'9"
• Power: Medium Heavy
• Pieces: 1
• Gear Ratio: 6.4:1
• Ball Bearings: 4+1
• Retrieve: Right or Left

I am set up with a left handed retrieve which is a little more comfortable for me.

 

[lecisnith]

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-videos/how-to-cast-baitcast.html

[lecisnith]

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-videos/cast-adjust-baitcast.html

Those two videos should get you started pretty well.

[VtSmallmouth]

When I started using baitcasters my first combo was an entry level Abu Garcia combo as well, great gear to learn on. My advice is to watch and read as much as you can. There are tons of videos on here from setting them up to casting. I'd spool it with monofilament, it's cheap and forgiving. Also practice before you take it to the water if you can. It'll be tricky at first but stick with it cause once you get it figured out baitcasters are awesome. As far as fishing id learn to rig up a Texas rig. There is a video about it on this site. Texas rigs can be fished so many different ways with pretty much any soft plastic, and they catch fish. So that's my advice, watch some videos, practice, practice, learn the Texas rig and go have fun!!

[mrgimpy]

 I use this combo as well and really enjoy it. It is also my first. I suggest 10 lb Trilene XL Smooth Cast. I use it and it works well.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

10# is a little on the light side. 14 # trilene xl will handle well and be better around cover. The are lots of articles and threads here to get you pointed in the right direction.

[trisdisp57]

I really appreciate the help...  I will continue reading and learning as much as I possibly can from this site.

[trisdisp57]

Well I put 10#mono on my rod and I'm gonna go out and hope for the best I'll let you know how it goes.

[GoTakeANap]

Well I put 10#mono on my rod and I'm gonna go out and hope for the best I'll let you know how it goes.

 

Let us know. Congrats on the new rod/reel combo btw.

[lectricbassman]

My advice is to stick with it. I almost gave up on baicasters entirely but am glad i didnt. I love and prefer spinning reels but there are some things a baitcaster just does better. Practice practice practice. I too started with a black max combo. A lot of guys say mono to start but i found braid to be a lot more forgiving. Use mono backing and the tape method to minimize deep birdsnests in the spool and you should keep your braid expenses to a minimum

[trisdisp57]

What's the tape method? Sorry if I'm asking for a lot but I'm new to bait casting

[new2BC4bass]

Tape method:  Pull out a few yards more than what will be your longest cast.  At this point in time I would make that about 35-40 yards.  Wrap some tape around the spool.  This will keep the backlash from going any deeper.

 

Windy is good as long as you have the wind behind you, across so-so, and facing it a no-no until you get better at casting.

 

Weight rating on that rod is not mentioned.   Probably 1/4-1 oz.  Start with a minimum of 1/2 oz.  Preferably something like a jig.  A casting reel hates jerky motions.   Be as smooth as possible.  Don't use much power at first.  Use a sidearm roll cast.  This will keep the rod tip loaded throughout the casting stroke, and eliminates the rod stop and reversal of an overhead cast.  Stopping the rod on the back stroke sets you up to start the forward stroke before the lure has loaded the rod tip in the other direction.  Jerk.  Takes a bit of practice to get the timing down.  Cast with 2 hands on the rod.

 

There are plenty of threads along with the stickies on setting up and casting with a baitcast reel.  Good luck.  Don't get discouraged.  Some learn quicker than others.  I wasn't one who was able to go out and be casting great after 2 hours of practice.   However, with sufficient practice, I now cast with either hand, and use both right and left hand reels.

[lectricbassman]

What's the tape method? Sorry if I'm asking for a lot but I'm new to bait casting

Make a cast or pull out about 75-100 ft of line. Take some tape and wrap it around your spool then reel the line back in over the tape. Now if you get a nasty backlash only part of your spool will be affected. The line under the tape stays in place. Using braid and this method i have never had to cut any line from backlashes, ive always been able to pick it out...eventually. As you get more confident you can move your tape deeper into the spool. I stilm have some in mine somewhere but but i havent seen it in a while. Good luck and just stay with it