Proper Mating

[NWAbasser]

So I have a couple rod and reel combos. One was given to me by my brother, the other my grandpa. I've used both off and on caught quite a few fish on both but I've always felt like they weren't good combos. Like that the rods action wasnt a good fit for the reels gear ratio. So what I was hoping for is to post the information of these two combos and yall give me feedback as to what these rods and reels do best, what kind of baits they should be throwing, and so on and so forth. 

 

#1:

Reel: Shimando Curado 7.0:1 gear ratio

Rod: Diawa Jupiter 76THB the rod doesnt have a length but it's over 7', it's a two piece rod and doesnt seem like the nicest in the world but it's easy to travel with.

 

#2:

Reel: Lews Speed Spool 6.4:1 gear ratio

Rod: Abu Garcia Blackmax 6'6" Medium Heavy

 

The combos are obviously not the nicest and I'm sure some will say throw them away but they are in good condition. I hardly throw baitcasters anymore it seems like anyways but as I'm about to head to the creek I will be bringing one today and I would just like to pair these rods and reels with something more suited for them. Thank you for any help.

[Scott F]

I’m interested in hearing other answers but I don’t understand how the gear ratio on the reel would not pair with a particular rod. I get that high speed reels are not suited for some lures, but can be an advantage with others, but I’ve never heard anyone say that you must pair the speed of a reel to a rod.

[new2BC4bass]

The Jupiter should be 7'6" length.  Jupiter is made by Daiwa only for Walmart.  It sells for about $80.  I have a 7' MH.  Not the best obviously, but decent for the price.  Mine stays in Florida for my yearly visits.  I am thinking the Curado 7.0 may be a 200E, but I am not a Shimano guru so don't know what other models came in an even 7.0 ratio.  If it is a 200E, then you have a very nice reel.

 

As Scott said, gear ratios often are selected for technique...not a rod.  Of course a rod can be selected for a specific technique so there is that. 

 

6'6" or 7' MH rods are often suggested for an all around rod.  A 6.4 ratio is a good all around ratio for many.  Never used a Black Max rod (or reel), but they are low cost rods.  A Black Max rod and reel combo can be purchased for less than $75.

 

Could be better quality rods would make you happier.  Both reels are nice.  If you want to try another couple rods, but keep the price low, the Daiwa Aird X (about $55) is very nice for the price....so I've read.  There are several rods that are very nice in the $100-$110 range if you can spend more.

[NWAbasser]

Well then my question might be what "technique" are these reels best suited for? 

[Deleted account]

4 hours ago, NWAbasser said:

Proper Mating

Gotta get consent, which may be revoked at any time and can't be given while impaired or incapacitated, and may not be coerced. Much easier the second time around if you don't fish those 50 and 70 sized reels...