Selection

[Mrjamoc2]

I have two small Ponds by my house that had much bigger fish in it than I thought. I was using a Daiwa light action rod with 6lb test yesterday and had to fight in a really nice sized bass.

Was a workout but got him.

The ponds have a little of everything BASS, Catfish, bluegill, croppie, sunfish and they are all really decent sized.

What I'm looking to do is get a new rod and reel combo. I like using top waters or floating lures like poppers etc. there is quite a buildup of moss on the bottom so I actually use a bobber to keep the junk out and from losing equipment.

What would be a good selection? I like using spinning reels but wouldn't be against trying a baitcast.

Thanks in advance for the help

[Bluebasser86]

What price range are you looking to stay in?

[Mrjamoc2]

Yeah forgot to mention that part lol. As long as we are under the $200 range I'm fine. Would prefer $120-150 max but wouldn't be against spending more if it is justified.

[Mrjamoc2]

Cheaper is ok if decent just don't want junk

[d-camarena]

Academy h20 express mettle with h20 express combo is very good. Also the cabelas tourney trail/ pflueger president combo is great and you save money when you buy it as a combo.

[Mrjamoc2]

What is the deal with all these rods with the split grip? Looks awkward to me I've never owned one. Would appreciate feedback on what you guys think? Thanks

[new2BC4bass]

Split grip saves weight.  Otherwise I think it is mostly personal preference.  Personally I think you should get a Medium Fast spinning rod.  I much prefer baitcast reels, but I wouldn't want to use one with a bobber.  Especially if you are trying to keep several feet between the bobber and the bait.    I am a fan of Fenwick rods.  They have an HMG 7' MF rated 1/4 - 3/4 oz.  This actually is more a MH for me as several of my MH casting rods carry that rating.  If you'd like to go a bit lighter they also have an HMG 7' ML-F rated 1/8 - 5/8 oz.   One of these and a Pflueger President will run about $160 new.

[Mrjamoc2]

I like using the rebel poppers as well. Will the rod action your describing work with such a rod. I usually don't use a bobber but it's been snag city, with all the moss and junk

Also as far as reel and line I'm thinking 8-10-12? I'm still learning about gear ratios and all that and a lot of the terminology. Looking to learn a lot here so I know better with what I'm doing.

Thanks for the patience

[Mrjamoc2]

Picked up a ABU Garcia black max combo this evening at gander mountain.

It's a baitcast 7' long and has a good all around gear ratio.

Since this is my first baitcast I wanted something that was decent but not over the top expensive. I put some stren line on it and am looking forward to learning how to use it.

[Mrjamoc2]

Well I did some fishing with the new pole. Was doing ok at first, but didn't last long.

Two reasons for this I think, one being I've never used a baitcast, and two having a 7 foot rod.

Wound up with birdsnest and went through the whole spool by the time I was done. I also don't think the line was put on real tight by the guy at gander mountain, seemed like I had to stretch the line a lot while using rod.

Practice makes perfect I guess I see advantages to this set up but so far I like spinning that's what I'm used to though...