2500 Or 3000 Stradic Ci4+/rod

[Falltumn]

I am in the market for a Stradic CI4 but do not know whether to go after a 2500 or 3000. I will be putting it on a 7' MF rod (I still have yet to figure out what) and will be fishing large and small rivers either wading or from my yak. It will probably also see a pond or lake from time to time as well. I think the 3000 will probably suit me better and being slightly larger as well it might feel better in my hand as well.

 

Also I am absolutely torn between brands of rods I should be looking at. I have looked and held the *** blacks and it felt really nice in my hand and they get great reviews, but time and time again I see people post about St. Croix Avid X / BPS Carbonlite / Fenwick Aetos. I am going to pro shops tomorrow to hold a Avid and Carbonlite too see how it feels but as far as durability, sensitivity, customer care how do each hold up to one another?

 

Thanks in advance!

[Jon G]

An Avid with a 2500 CI4+ would be the best bet IMO

[kschultz76]

There is no difference in size between the 2500 and 3000, they are identical. The 3000 just has a deeper spool and as a result higher line capacity. Only go with the 3000 if you really need the higher capacity for some reason. I would highly recommend the Avid based on my hands on experience with them.

[d-camarena]

I have 3 of the 2500 version. You dont need more

[kickerfish1]

Ditto on what KSchultz said!

For bass fishing with medium to finesse sized baits you would never need the capacity of the 3000 sized reels. I only use the 1000 and 2500 for bass fishing and have never needed more. From 6-10# line they handle them fine. Only way I would ever consider the 3000 is if I were targetting fish capable of making long runs or felt the need for heavier line. The 2500 series reel has even handled runs from 20# grass carp on 8# line.

[Dramer77]

I have the 2500 on a shimano cumara 7" M-F rod... Amazing combo... Best spinning setup I've used

[Falltumn]

Thanks everyone, I ended up going with the 2500. I can't wait to use this reel! Hopefully I can make it to bpro to check out some rods today. I also have an ad on the flea market looking for an avid and also put a bid in on one on flea bay. Hope it pans out. I notice that the avid x is just an avid with the split grip? So I'll probably just stick with the regular full size cork handle. I've never used a split grip so I don't know why I'd risk getting a rod and not liking it.

[NJSalt]

good choice. The only difference is the line capacity and 1" of retrieve. 

[kschultz76]

Differences between the Avid and X are the handle design, reel seat, guide train, and warranty. Mostly that decision is a matter of preference and either will perform well. I recently checked out the Avid X casting at cabelas and was impressed, I think they've improved balance and weight on the Xs with the new guide train and handle design.

[Dramer77]

I'd take your reel and mount it on a few different rods and see how they feel before you make a decision

[SirSnookalot]

If you are using braid the 2500 holds more than enough line.  My own choice would be the 3000, I prefer more line capacity as I would be targeting other fish as well.

[Jig Man]

I have 2 2500s on Avid rods. They make a good combination for fishing plastics and light spinnerbaits either with braid or mono.