Need new reel, what to get?

[kdubbz]

Hi, I have a shimano Stradic 2000FE now and its had its use, with over 7 years of usage, Its time to get another one. I do frequent fishing from shores on rivers, and go on lakes with my brothers bass boat. Strictly for freshwater fish, bass, walleye, pike and such. I like the size of the shimano I have now, but im not sure on what one to get next. Any decent  ones with a >$200 price range? I like the cylindrical wooden handle but anyone will do. Thanks. The shimano I have now has held up for a long time, and is still going strong, its just now that theres better ones out there, its time for an upgrade.

[burleytog]

Stradic 2500FH

[David P]

I say burley is onto something. If you liked your previous shimano, get another. I just ordered a Stradic 2500 with a BPS Extreme rod for $139.99 on BPS.Com, The reel is usually $120 I believe, and the rod is usually $70 or $100. So you're getting a decent rod for $20.

[kdubbz]

Looks nice. My friend just got a Pflueger Supreme reel, and he likes it a lot, so I tryed his out and it feels smooth. So would the 2500FH be just as good or better than this one. How many bearings does the 2500FH have? I read some good reviews about it on BSP. I found the 2500FH/BSP Extreme rod combo, good deal, but what stiffness rod did you get? I have not used a BSP rod before, so what would be good for large mouth/small mouth/walleye/pike? Medium? Thanks again. Also, is the 7' rod a one piece?

[LAO162]

If you don't need to spend over $100 for a Stradic , the Shimano Symetre has almost the same features for about 2/3 the price - and it's slightly lighter. The new Daiwa Tierra hasn't established a reputation yet, but it looks as though it has potential.  It also is also available in more sizes.

[roadwarrior]

Stradic 2500FH

Many members of the Shimano Posse have written glowing reviews about the Symetre ($79), but my vote for "Best Value" in the Shimano line-up still goes to the Stradic 2500FH ($129). Either way, you will not be disappointed.

BTW, Reed's Family Outdoors Outfitters has them on sale:

http://www.reedssports.com/main.taf?cat=59

(Free shipping and no sales tax, too!)

[FishTank]

If your budget is around $200, you might take a look at the Shimano Sustain 2500FD.  Awesome reel.

http://www.***.com/descpageRLSSHIMANO-SSSR.html

[kdubbz]

Looks like the 2500FH is the way to go, the price seems to be right for a good quality reel. The combo looks good, but how are Bass pro shops extreme XPS poles? Can anyone compare one to a st. croix pole? My friends all have st. croix poles and they love them, but I am willing to get the XPS Pole if it is such a good deal for $140 with the 2500FH. THanks.

[acar555]

Shimano is changing the Stradic for next year so you will probably see some great pricing on the current version to get rid of old stock before the new one hits the market.  If you want to get another Stradic I would wait till the new ones is out and maybe get that one or get the current model at a clearence price.  I do really like the Stadic Mg though at $180.  It is a lighter reel and has the drag of the Sustain.

http://www.tackletour.com/reviewshimanostradic2500mgfa.html

[kdubbz]

Dang its so hard to choose. That Stradic 2500MgFa looks promising, Found it for about 165 on ebay... might get that.

[rvrnr64]

I'm not the fisherman many on here are but I have the new Mitchell 300 series as well as the Shimano Sahara and don't see alot of difference other than the price. If you want to spend some major bucks you'll have to listen to the pro's 'cause I'm not the go to guy on the expensive reels. I just think it's crazy to spend alot on a reel unless you're a pro.