Reel/rod size recommendation

[bgaviator]

I really enjoy using my spinning ultralight reel so now I’m wanting to buy a versatile larger spinning setup for the fish species we have in our local dam spillway. Mostly white bass, drum, catfish, and gar. I am not opposed to spending some decent money to get a nice rod and reel. I am thinking a Daiwa Tatula XT rod. Just not sure medium or medium heavy would be the play here. Sometimes there can be monster fish in the spillway. I’ve seen some dead fish on shore that look like whales! 
 

Then I need to decide on a reel size. I am a Daiwa fan and I am thinking about going with the Fuego LT. I am not sure what is better for a versatile reel. 2500 or 3000 size?

 

Also, talk to me about fishing line for this thing. I keep thinking I’d like to try braid line out as I understand it has no memory and can cast better. What strength braid and pairing to what strength leader would be best when you have no idea what may strike the hook?  Appreciate the advice. 

[MN Fisher]

Only real difference between a 2500 and a 3000 is the spool size...so if you're not needing more line on your reel, the 2500 should do. With Daiwa, it's not an issue, the 'D' in the reel model means 'Deep', and they hold way more line than the equivalent Shimano or Abu.

 

I'd put 20# or 30# braid on that with 10#-12# FC or YZH.

[bgaviator]

41 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

Only real difference between a 2500 and a 3000 is the spool size...so if you're not needing more line on your reel, the 2500 should do. With Daiwa, it's not an issue, the 'D' in the reel model means 'Deep', and they hold way more line than the equivalent Shimano or Abu.

 

I'd put 20# or 30# braid on that with 10#-12# FC or YZH.

So probably no real reason to go 3000 over 2500?  I’ve seen some Reddit posts that say a 3000 reel casts smoother and further than a 2500?  
 

what about rod type? Medium or medium heavy for my use case?

[MN Fisher]

Ya, the larger lip and increased diameter of the 3000 will let it cast further...but it's a matter of a dozen yards or so, so not a big deal.

 

For the fish you're looking to catch...a MH/F would be my suggestion.

[Eric 26]

I’m in agreement with @MN Fisher that the Daiwa 2500 will hold plenty of line, also agree a medium heavy would be my choice. Lastly if I’m not mistaken @throttleplate fishes in a similar manner so maybe he’ll chime in also.

[Eric 26]

I’m also going to add knowing you’re a fan of Daiwa as I also am do yourself a favor and check out the Daiwa BG (Black & Gold), I have a 1500 size and although it’s a bit on the heavy side as it’s saltwater rated it’s one of the smoothest reels I own with perfect line lay straight out of the box. Considering where you’re fishing and what you’re fishing for I feel this reel will hold up better for you in the long run especially for the extra $20.00. 

[casts_by_fly]

I grew up fishing what you’re describing. I’ve fished it from a 500 size reel on a fiberglass ultralight to a 9’ steelhead medium with a 4k. It’s all about the size of the stream/river. Large impoundment outflow?  Go longer. Smaller streams you can jump over in the summer? Short Ultralight. 
 

also, the things you’re fishing. A single split shot and a small live worm goes lighter power.  Bigger lures then more power. 
 

Since you’re fishing an ultralight now, I’m going to guess that a 9’ 3/8-3/4 steelhead rod isn’t the right fit. In that case, I’d look at a 7’ (give or take a couple inches) medium or medium light. Something rated 1/8-1/2 or so, maybe a little more. You’ll be able to throw smaller plastics and jigs but also throw a dt10 or a nightcrawler rig and not worry.

For the reel, balance is what I need. For the rod above, I’d go with a 3k size.  Better to have the capacity and not need it than need it and not have it.  if you end up with a 7’3” medium then a 4k wouldn’t be out of place. 
 

I like braid to leader on a spinning outfit EXCEPT in this application. Every spillway and creek I’ve ever fished is full of snags, rocks, logs etc. A leader should break before the braid but not if the braid gets wrapped in the snag too. I hate line flapping in the current that you couldn’t pull out and had to cut off. For that reason I’d prefer a faster action rod and maybe round up if you’re between powers then stick with mono (8-10 lb probably).  

 

 

[Chris at Tech]

You may want to size up to a 4000 size as some insurance in the event you hook one of those whales.

[OkobojiEagle]

16 hours ago, MN Fisher said:

 a matter of a dozen yards or so, so not a big deal.

 

an additional 36 feet over crystal water can be a big deal...

[WRB]

Tail race water is fast moving and you are a shore fisherman. I suggest going with inshore salt water combo to handle strong river big fish in lieu of standard bass tackle.

Daiwa has spinning combo’s like;

BG 4000/701MH, 7’ size 4000 reel.

line 30 lb braid with 20 lb Big Game leader and back up line. You only need about 100 yards of braid so use the mono to fill the spool about 1/2 with braid top shot and Big Game leader about 20’ long. 
Tom