Give me your opinions on my new rod and reel combo

[Big-Dan]

hey guys, i went to the fishing store today to buy a new rod and reel since my old one is starting get old still works though but i want an up grade and a new rod, if your wondering what i have at the moment check my signature its the rhino rod and mitchell reel. so today i bought a Shimano Sahara 2500FD reel, i intended to buy the Symetre 2500 but the had no more and they told me that they were being replaced by the 2009 models and that they wouldnt have them for another month, so i couldnt wait so i bought the Sahara. next i bought a Shimano Convergence graphite rod 6' 6" Power- Medium, Action- Fast , to be paired up with my new reel, and i bought Stren Super Braid 14LB lo-vis green line. i seller told me this set up would be good for all round fishing that i do, i throw any lure i have in my tackle box, i dont have the money to spend on different rods and reels for different fishing types. anyway i just want to know your guys opinions on my purchase? oh and i still will use my older rod and reel.

thanks Big D

[Certified Public Angler]

That will be a very good all around bassin combo.  You can't go wrong with the shimano set up.  I prefer 30lbs braid, but it all depends on what kind of structure you'll be fishing most.  I drag a lot of my fish out of thick lilly pads.  Have fun, and make sure to update us with some pics.  

[Joe Boss]

Good combo. I fish a Shimano Sedona with the same exact Convergence you have. I wish I would have spent the extra bucks and got the Sahara.

You should enjoy fishing with that set up, good luck.

[Grey Wolf]

You did good!!!!!!!

[Big-Dan]

Im always nervous buying new fishing gear, i dont really understand the different class rods and lines for different fishing conditions, so i had to take the salesmans advice and also mine own instinct. i cant wait till this weekend to try it out, also bought some senko's watermelon black flake, i tried these on my old rod but couldnt catch anything, was afraid i wouldnt feel the bite so now im hoping with my new more sensitive rod ill be able to catch some fish on my senkos. thanks for the tips guys  

[Aaron]

Sounds like a good combo.  The 2500 series shimanos are perfect for bass fishing.  I probably would have got different line but that's just me.

Good luck and catch a big 'un

[Bassyak]

I really like the Sahara at it's price point, though some others have said the Symetre is as low end as they would go.  I have 2 Saharas--a 4000 that I used for inshore saltwater when I lived in SC and GA, and a 1500 that I paired with a 6'6" Compre MH/XF a spooled with 10lb Power Pro braid for bass.  This combo probably sees the most action of all my spinning combos at the moment.  Personally, I would have gone with a little bit better rod--probably a Clarus for a little more sensitivity (IM7 Graphite) and better reel seat and guides.  But all in all, not a bad choice at all.

[J Francho]

Sounds like a solid start.  That rod has specs that describes most people's idea of a good all purpose spinning rod.  My son has one, except he uses a older Stradic.  That gear should last you years and catch plenty of fish.

[njbasser]

Reel- good

Rod- good

Line- its not trilene XL  

[avid]

Nice set up.

But next time you might want to ask for opinions before you buy the equipment.  It would seem sorta mean spirited if someone were to come on the board now and say you bought crap.

Plus there is always the enjoyment of listening to the Shimano posse get trashed by the "anything other than" Shimano posse.  Stick around, you'll see what I mean.

[FordNFishinLover]

Great setup man! I think the salesmen steered you in the right way. I love my sahara, its a tough reel and can get the job done. The rod i havent used, but the warranty on it and knowing shimano is a reliable brand id say it should work just fine.

Thats quite a upgrade from your old setup and i think you will be very very pleased! Hope you catch loads dude!!

[Big-Dan]

thanks all for the replies makes me feel more confident i what i buy, man i cant wait to try this new combo out this weekend !