Is the reel big enough?

[CameronB521]

I have a 3500 sized spinning reel, and I would like to get a rod for it. I’ve been looking at the penn squadron 8 foot medium rated for 12-20lb line and 3/4-3oz lures, but I’m not sure if my reel is big enough.

[Bluebasser86]

What are you planning on using it for? 

[Fishes in trees]

Some guys like the bigger reels for bass fishing, the thought being that the larger spools offer less line twist and longer casts.  Larger spool might have a better drag.  A long time ago, I was exposed to this theory, when I was doing BFL's.  Around the same time I came across a stash of 4000 size Diawa reels, complete with spare spools.   I believe they were Regals - a decent reel, a step below mid-range in the Diawa line at the time.  I fished them for a couple seasons.   The slightly less line twist and the slightly longer casts happened, but after a couple of seasons I realized I could do pretty much the same thing with lighter 1000 size Shimano reels that weighed quite a bit less, so that's the road I went down.  Still have those reels - they still fish good.

What do you plan to use the reel for is a fair question.  Put some heavier braid on that reel, like 50 or 60 pound test and buy the rod you mentioned and you'll have distance casting catfish rod supreme.  It would be interesting to see how that reel would stand up to a 40 lb + flathead.

[Russ E]

It is plenty big if you are bass fishing. all of my Bass spinning reels are 2500's

[Bubba 460]

Don't know what your intentions are for the use of the rod but for bass fishing 8 foot is kind of over-kill unless you throwing big swim-baits  The reel is a tad small for the target line weight  of 12 to 20 # and up to 3 oz lures. So for that rod I'd say get a bigger reel, at least a 4000 or a smaller rod.

[ATA]

I believe that 3500 size reel is like MH 7' Rod, You can use that reel for so many situation but it is not perfect for every situation. So if you going to have only one spinning reel you need to get that 3500 size.

[FishTank]

The reel might be on the bigger side of things for bass fishing but will work fine.  The rod on the other hand is for inshore fishing for much bigger fish.  I would not use it for bass fishing. 

[gm4511]

That Penn Squadron is a surf rod, I think, and a 3500 reel is normally way too small for this rod.  I doubt you'll like it for bass fishing.  

 

A 3500 reel is a great all around size for bass.  Find a 7' MH or 7' M spinning rod in your price range and you'll be good.