Picking a reel

[Donutking]

Everytime I make a post on here I get more nervous about picking the right baitcasting reel, so let's hope this is the last time for a bit. I am going to start using baitcasters after years of using spinning setups. I am going to buy a st. Croix legend xtreme casting rod. medium heavy fast action for all around fishing. for the reel I wanted to use something that can keep up with the rod, and also one that can be used in saltwater. I was thinking about the shimano metanium mgl, but I wasn't if that reel would be the best for the rod. please leave your thoughts and suggest any other rods and reels.

[DogBone_384]

Don't get nervous about getting a baitcaster.  If you're already looking at Shimano's metanium, just go get it.  It's one of the best baitcasters made.  Spool your purchase with 12 pound mono, set the brakes: http://www.bassresource.com/beginner/how-to-use-baitcaster.html), and go fishing.  

[bigfruits]

Metaniums are great reels but id be hesitant to use them in saltwater.

I haven't used this reel but I think im getting it for a heavy rod I just bought that will see some marine use.

http://jpangler.com/index.php/reel/daiwa-baitcasting/zillion-tw-hlc/daiwa-zillion-tw-hlc.html

 

have you decided on right or left handed baitcaster?

[Donutking]

1 hour ago, bigfruits said:

Metaniums are great reels but id be hesitant to use them in saltwater.

I haven't used this reel but I think im getting it for a heavy rod I just bought that will see some marine use.

http://jpangler.com/index.php/reel/daiwa-baitcasting/zillion-tw-hlc/daiwa-zillion-tw-hlc.html

 

have you decided on right or left handed baitcaster?

Yeah, I'm more comfortable with left. also on bass pro it says that the metanium can be used in fresh and saltwater, so that's why I've been confused.

[BrackishBassin]

If you haven't tried baitcasters before, find a way to try one before you drop that kind of money. Seems a little ridiculous to me. It'd be like someone who had never raced buying a Formula 1 car and hitting the track. 

The guys and gals on here give great advice, but that doesn't mean it'll work for you. When I started with my baitcaster, I heard over and over to spool with mono because it was easy to learn on. After dealing with a bunch of backlashes, I said screw it and spooled the baitcaster with braid. Haven't had any issues since. I probably struggled with mono because I'm a saltwater guy that fishes exclusively with braid. So, for me, mono sucked. It could be the same situation for you with a particular rod or reel, or combination of the two. So, before you spend an arm and a leg, find a way to figure out what works for you. Not necessarily what works for everyone else. 

[roadwarrior]

11 hours ago, Donutking said:

Everytime I make a post on here I get more nervous about picking the right baitcasting reel, so let's hope this is the last time for a bit. I am going to start using baitcasters after years of using spinning setups. I am going to buy a st. Croix legend xtreme casting rod. medium heavy fast action for all around fishing. for the reel I wanted to use something that can keep up with the rod, and also one that can be used in saltwater. I was thinking about the shimano metanium mgl, but I wasn't if that reel would be the best for the rod. please leave your thoughts and suggest any other rods and reels.

Sounds GREAT to me!

 

[bigfruits]

14 hours ago, Donutking said:

also on bass pro it says that the metanium can be used in fresh and saltwater, so that's why I've been confused.

im just paranoid I guess. the 2013 metanium is awesome and the MGL is supposed to be better.

JDM version is cheaper but has less line capacity and no warranty.

http://www.digitaka.com/item.php?item=229110

 

[Raul]

No matter what Shimano says, I wouldn't let any of my magnesium frame reels get close to any salt concentration no matter how small, I do own Shimano salt water "safe" reels ( CH50Mg ).

[LuckyHandsINC.]

First thing I'll say is, I can't imagine anyone being disappointed with the mgl.

Having said that I am also in the camp of, I don't care what shimano tells me. My magnesium feels will never go anywhere near saltwater.

I also agree with the person who advised not to spend so much on your first baitcaster.  It would certainly suck to spend that much money and find out you don't like it. I would say buy a moderately priced aluminum framed reel, maybe in the $150-$200 range. I think you'll be just fine and will still make a very nice combo. Plus you won't have to worry as much about the saltwater. It's still a good idea to rinse with fl an water after every trip though,. Even with an aluminum framed reel.

["hamma"]

curado is still a good reel, just not as expensive, and anytime your going to fish saltwater? rinse your reels right after with fresh tapwater

[Hogsticker]

A Daiwa SV103 would pair nicely with that rod. Should balance well, is bulletproof, and can handle anything you ask of it. It's super user friendly, and just a fine crafted piece of machinery. It's aluminum so you can use it in the salt. Smooth, versatile, built to last, and a joy to fish.