Matching a reel with a rod

[Rthill25]

I recently purchased a 7’0, medium heavy, extra fast action rod. I was wondering what size reel I should use. I am interested in the Pflueger President spinning reels, in either the 30, 35, or 40 sizes. I usually use 12lb mono as my line, and the 35 size reel seems to fit as much line as I need. However I am also interested in using something like 10lb PP and using the 30 size reel, but I worry that the reel will not be heavy enough to balance out with the rod. I’m kinda torn here so any replies would be helpful. Thanks in advance. 

[MassYak85]

I use a 30 size for my 7'0 spinning rod and it works well IMO. I wouldn't want a bigger reel but I don't think the 35 would be necessarily overkill either depending what you are trying to do. But for 10lb PP I'd definitely go with the 30 size.

[desmobob]

It's nice to be able to try a couple of different reels on the rod to see how they balance.  

 

I just swapped out a little 25-size President I had on a long ultralight rod for a heavier Okuma.  A reel that is too light can make an already slightly tip-heavy rod feel really uncomfortable.

 

Since a range of reel sizes meet your line capacity requirements, I'd choose the one that gives you the preferred balance.

 

Tight lines,

Bob

[Rthill25]

33 minutes ago, MassYak85 said:

I use a 30 size for my 7'0 spinning rod and it works well IMO. I wouldn't want a bigger reel but I don't think the 35 would be necessarily overkill either depending what you are trying to do. But for 10lb PP I'd definitely go with the 30 size.

I usually do a lot of weightless, soft plastic, finesse fishing. However, it is around grassy and rocky areas, which is why I like the heavier lb mono. I figure the bigger spool size on the 35 will help me get some better distance. 

[MassYak85]

28 minutes ago, Rthill25 said:

I usually do a lot of weightless, soft plastic, finesse fishing. However, it is around grassy and rocky areas, which is why I like the heavier lb mono. I figure the bigger spool size on the 35 will help me get some better distance. 

If you do stick with the heavier mono the 35 is probably a better choice but if you do go with the 10lb braid I'd definitely drop down in size a bit. 

[Sam]

Did you match the rod's line test with your reel's line test?

 

Take the rod's high and low, add them together and divide by two.

 

This will give you the optimum line test for the rod and if your reel matches it then you are ready to go.

 

As for reels, do you need a large spool or a smaller spool?

 

And one last suggestion: match up the rod and reel in the tackle store, if possible, and see how they feel. No line necessary. Just add the reel to the rod and move it around.

 

Good luck.

[Fish the Mitt]

2 hours ago, Rthill25 said:

I usually do a lot of weightless, soft plastic, finesse fishing. 

With a MH/XF setup? Those must be some big plastics!

[Will1248]

Always choose a 30 a 40 is too big, too heavy and wont cast the bait as far. On a spinning reel the size wont matter much if you can reel and fight a fish correctly. Save money and get a 30. I have made the mistake before