Can you help a newbie out with picking out his first spinning Reel/Rod combo?

[DiggityDanks]

Hi,

I am a newbie and I just came back from the Kern River in California
where I was trying to catch Rainbow Trout and Bass. My friend caught 1
trout and 2 bass and I got nothing. I have bait fished for stingrays
before off the Newport docks but that required little skill and
instinct but it was also really fun because I actually caught
something. I find that freshwater fishing is very interesting because
it involves tricking the fish. I now need my own setup so that I can
start learning and adjusting to my own gear. All I know is that my
friend recommended that I get a 4-6-8lb tested rod/reel and that it
should be spinning and not baitcasting. I have looked through my local
stores such as Sportmart and Turner's but I am confused as to what I
need to buy. I am only 5'4" so I don't want a rod that is too long. I
want to spend a decent amount of money on a setup that will last me a
few years and won't leave me wanting to upgrade anytime soon. I am
thinking of spending around $50-$70 or possibly a bit more on a combo
if it is a reliable setup. My friend says that Shimano is one of the
well-known and trusted brands so that is what I have been looking at.
Could anybody recommend me a good reel/rod combo and a good deal? I
would really appreciate it.

[\The Shadow\]

I suggest a 6'6" rod with medium to medium heavy power, medium to fast
action. And an Okuma AV20
spinning reel. If the rod has alconite guides all the better as you can use
Power Pro line . Line anything from 6lb.to 12lb.test.

--
"The Shadow"
Millennium Rods
"DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
om...
> Hi,
>
> I am a newbie and I just came back from the Kern River in California
> where I was trying to catch Rainbow Trout and Bass. My friend caught 1
> trout and 2 bass and I got nothing. I have bait fished for stingrays
> before off the Newport docks but that required little skill and
> instinct but it was also really fun because I actually caught
> something. I find that freshwater fishing is very interesting because
> it involves tricking the fish. I now need my own setup so that I can
> start learning and adjusting to my own gear. All I know is that my
> friend recommended that I get a 4-6-8lb tested rod/reel and that it
> should be spinning and not baitcasting. I have looked through my local
> stores such as Sportmart and Turner's but I am confused as to what I
> need to buy. I am only 5'4" so I don't want a rod that is too long. I
> want to spend a decent amount of money on a setup that will last me a
> few years and won't leave me wanting to upgrade anytime soon. I am
> thinking of spending around $50-$70 or possibly a bit more on a combo
> if it is a reliable setup. My friend says that Shimano is one of the
> well-known and trusted brands so that is what I have been looking at.
> Could anybody recommend me a good reel/rod combo and a good deal? I
> would really appreciate it.

[Jerry]

\"The Shadow\" wrote:
> I suggest a 6'6" rod with medium to medium heavy power, medium to fast
> action. And an Okuma AV20
> spinning reel. If the rod has alconite guides all the better as you can use
> Power Pro line . Line anything from 6lb.to 12lb.test.
>

I think a medium to medium light action would be a little better for
where he is fishing and for what he is fishing for. The trout in those
rivers are 1-2 pounds and sometimes maybe 3 pounds. About the same for
the smallmouth bass in the same rivers. The lighter action would be
better for casting light lures and spinners for these fish. WalMart
carries a Abu Garcia "Harold Ensley signature" rod that is 6.6 feet and
rated for 6-12 pounds for about $30. The Shimono 2000 series spinning
reels have decent drags and hold 110 yards of 10 pound test lines for
about the same price. Both of these (rod & reel) are good quality at a
low price and will last many years if taken care of. Caution ........
you're going to get hooked on this sport and when you do that $70 limit
for a rod and reel is going to go right out the window. You've been
warned. BTW I use to live in California and fished a lot of rivers and
lakes out there and one of my favorite lures for trout and smallmouth
was a inline spinner such as Blue Fox and others of that type.

Jerry

[Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers]

"DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
m...
> Wouldn't a 6'6" be too long for me?

Nope, heck I'm 5'9" and I fish 7 - 8' rods most of the time. A 6' to 6'6"
medium light to medium spinning rod would be perfect.

Look in Cabelas or BassPro for a Shimano Sahara 1500 reel and rod combo.
They have several in there to choose from close to your price range. The
Sahara is a great reel and the rods apprear to be all right as well.
--
Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers
http://www.outdoorfrontiers.com
G & S Guide Service and Custom Rods
http://www.herefishyfishy.com

[Bryan]

I would consider looking into the Shimano Spirex 2000. It is a great
spinning reel and falls within your price range. As for rods, the choice is
up to you. You, alone, know what feels most comfortable. Just be sure to
find a rod that matches the reel and fishing conditions.

Best of Luck,
Bryan


"DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
om...
> Hi,
>
> I am a newbie and I just came back from the Kern River in California
> where I was trying to catch Rainbow Trout and Bass. My friend caught 1
> trout and 2 bass and I got nothing. I have bait fished for stingrays
> before off the Newport docks but that required little skill and
> instinct but it was also really fun because I actually caught
> something. I find that freshwater fishing is very interesting because
> it involves tricking the fish. I now need my own setup so that I can
> start learning and adjusting to my own gear. All I know is that my
> friend recommended that I get a 4-6-8lb tested rod/reel and that it
> should be spinning and not baitcasting. I have looked through my local
> stores such as Sportmart and Turner's but I am confused as to what I
> need to buy. I am only 5'4" so I don't want a rod that is too long. I
> want to spend a decent amount of money on a setup that will last me a
> few years and won't leave me wanting to upgrade anytime soon. I am
> thinking of spending around $50-$70 or possibly a bit more on a combo
> if it is a reliable setup. My friend says that Shimano is one of the
> well-known and trusted brands so that is what I have been looking at.
> Could anybody recommend me a good reel/rod combo and a good deal? I
> would really appreciate it.

[Jerry]

DiggityDanks wrote:
> Wouldn't a 6'6" be too long for me?
>

Only time length becomes a problem is during transporting but a two
piece rod solves that problem for most even though a one piece is a
better choice. A longer rod gives you greater casting distance and
leverage for fighting the fish. One thing that needs to be mentioned is
there are no standards among the rod manufacture community as to rod
action. What one manufacture might label as a medium action the other
would label as medium heavy so you really need to check out the rod
before buying unless you are familiar with a particular rod company.

Jerry

[DiggityDanks]

I have been looking at all of your recommendations and the Spirex
seems to be a solid buy but there are two versions, one that is front
drag and one that is rear drag. What does this mean?


"Bryan" <bryandotshaveratqg.com> wrote in message >...
> I would consider looking into the Shimano Spirex 2000. It is a great
> spinning reel and falls within your price range. As for rods, the choice is
> up to you. You, alone, know what feels most comfortable. Just be sure to
> find a rod that matches the reel and fishing conditions.
>
> Best of Luck,
> Bryan
>
>
> "DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
> om...
> > Hi,
> >
> > I am a newbie and I just came back from the Kern River in California
> > where I was trying to catch Rainbow Trout and Bass. My friend caught 1
> > trout and 2 bass and I got nothing. I have bait fished for stingrays
> > before off the Newport docks but that required little skill and
> > instinct but it was also really fun because I actually caught
> > something. I find that freshwater fishing is very interesting because
> > it involves tricking the fish. I now need my own setup so that I can
> > start learning and adjusting to my own gear. All I know is that my
> > friend recommended that I get a 4-6-8lb tested rod/reel and that it
> > should be spinning and not baitcasting. I have looked through my local
> > stores such as Sportmart and Turner's but I am confused as to what I
> > need to buy. I am only 5'4" so I don't want a rod that is too long. I
> > want to spend a decent amount of money on a setup that will last me a
> > few years and won't leave me wanting to upgrade anytime soon. I am
> > thinking of spending around $50-$70 or possibly a bit more on a combo
> > if it is a reliable setup. My friend says that Shimano is one of the
> > well-known and trusted brands so that is what I have been looking at.
> > Could anybody recommend me a good reel/rod combo and a good deal? I
> > would really appreciate it.

[Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers]

"DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
om...
> I have been looking at all of your recommendations and the Spirex
> seems to be a solid buy but there are two versions, one that is front
> drag and one that is rear drag. What does this mean?

Not to be a smart a$$, but on one, the drag is on the front, the other, on
the rear. :)

If you're the type that likes to fiddle with the drag setting constantly, a
rear drag reel is better. The drag control is mounted on the aft of the
reel, and thus easier to get to. But...typically a rear drag uses smaller
drag washers and the drag isn't as smooth operating.

A front drag reel (for some) isn't as easy to re-adjust in the heat of the
battle, but then again, a smooth drag, once it's set properly shouldn't need
to be re-set.

Or, as I'm sure RichZ will chime in with, crank the drag down tight and
learn to back-reel, which brings up a whole new set of questions for
you..... :)
--
Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers
http://www.outdoorfrontiers.com
G & S Guide Service and Custom Rods
http://www.herefishyfishy.com

[Lure builder]

I have rear drag spirex reels (1000, 2000, 4000). It is easy to set the drag
without getting you hands in the way of the line. There is also a quick setting
macro adjustment to the drag.
The spirex also has a trigger system. This is good if you are fishing in cold
weather and want to wear gloves.
Front drag is more popular on account of it's durability.
I use my spirex for bass, pike, salmon and carp. The macro drag adjustment is
very good for carp and salmon which make explosive runs on hookset.

[Craig Baugher]

I'll support back reeling over playing with a drag system that only causes
line twist. Besides, you have much more control in the heat of battle back
reeling.

--
Craig Baugher
Be Confident, Focused, but most of all Have FUN!

[Jerry]

Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers wrote:

> If you're the type that likes to fiddle with the drag setting constantly, a
> rear drag reel is better. The drag control is mounted on the aft of the
> reel, and thus easier to get to. But...typically a rear drag uses smaller
> drag washers and the drag isn't as smooth operating.
>
> A front drag reel (for some) isn't as easy to re-adjust in the heat of the
> battle, but then again, a smooth drag, once it's set properly shouldn't need
> to be re-set.

I have both types in my locker. I use the rear drags for the wife's and
guests rods because they are easily set before fishing but I use the
front drag reels for myself because they as Steve says have a better
drag system' regardless of which you choose make sure you back the
drags all the way off at the end of the day before putting them away.
This will keeps the drags from getting flat spots and sticking you you.

Jerry

[DiggityDanks]

Thanks for all the tips. You have all helped me greatly in deciding on
my first setup. I think I will choose a front drag since it is
smoother and it sounds like back reeling would be the better method to
use.

Before I choose the Spirex, has anybody heard of the Okuma Halogen?
Does this reel compare to the Spirex? Or should I just go with the
Spirex?


(DiggityDanks) wrote in message >...
> I have been looking at all of your recommendations and the Spirex
> seems to be a solid buy but there are two versions, one that is front
> drag and one that is rear drag. What does this mean?
>
>
> "Bryan" <bryandotshaveratqg.com> wrote in message >...
> > I would consider looking into the Shimano Spirex 2000. It is a great
> > spinning reel and falls within your price range. As for rods, the choice is
> > up to you. You, alone, know what feels most comfortable. Just be sure to
> > find a rod that matches the reel and fishing conditions.
> >
> > Best of Luck,
> > Bryan
> >
> >
> > "DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
> > om...
> > > Hi,
> > >
> > > I am a newbie and I just came back from the Kern River in California
> > > where I was trying to catch Rainbow Trout and Bass. My friend caught 1
> > > trout and 2 bass and I got nothing. I have bait fished for stingrays
> > > before off the Newport docks but that required little skill and
> > > instinct but it was also really fun because I actually caught
> > > something. I find that freshwater fishing is very interesting because
> > > it involves tricking the fish. I now need my own setup so that I can
> > > start learning and adjusting to my own gear. All I know is that my
> > > friend recommended that I get a 4-6-8lb tested rod/reel and that it
> > > should be spinning and not baitcasting. I have looked through my local
> > > stores such as Sportmart and Turner's but I am confused as to what I
> > > need to buy. I am only 5'4" so I don't want a rod that is too long. I
> > > want to spend a decent amount of money on a setup that will last me a
> > > few years and won't leave me wanting to upgrade anytime soon. I am
> > > thinking of spending around $50-$70 or possibly a bit more on a combo
> > > if it is a reliable setup. My friend says that Shimano is one of the
> > > well-known and trusted brands so that is what I have been looking at.
> > > Could anybody recommend me a good reel/rod combo and a good deal? I
> > > would really appreciate it.

[Allen]

Use the Pump and wind the line in method...
Pull back on the rod and let the drag work when
you drop the rod wind the line in as you drop the rod.
No twist no problem...a bait caster works better on
bringing the fish in but can be a problem to cast...
don't back wind. That as assnine solution to learning
the correct way to use your reels drag system...
Try it the old farts way.. it might just work...
Not to brag... but I have caught over 1000 bass over
18" (small mouth) using anywher from 4 lb. to 8 lb.
and never did I once back reel... I have caught 1000's
of carp from 12 to over 40 inches using no more than
12 lb test and a Michell 300 and I "NEVER" back
wound on a fish. I now live in Daytona Florida and
fish Ponce Inlet 2-3 times a week and catch reds to
30+ lbs, shark to +50lbs using no more than 20# line
and I "NEVER" back reeled and I use a ABU 7000
and a Penn 5500 with 20 lb stren on the 7000
and 15 lb yozuri on the 5500.
I do change my line once a month... or when fish
"spools me" <= you will never haver have that problem...
but go fish.. don't look for the magic solution
to every little problem that may cause you to loose a fish or two....
I hope you get where I'm coming from....
allen at http://sea4two.net


"Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers" > wrote in
message ...
>
> "DiggityDanks" > wrote in message
> om...
> > I have been looking at all of your recommendations and the Spirex
> > seems to be a solid buy but there are two versions, one that is front
> > drag and one that is rear drag. What does this mean?
>
> Not to be a smart a$$, but on one, the drag is on the front, the other, on
> the rear. :)
>
> If you're the type that likes to fiddle with the drag setting constantly,
a
> rear drag reel is better. The drag control is mounted on the aft of the
> reel, and thus easier to get to. But...typically a rear drag uses smaller
> drag washers and the drag isn't as smooth operating.
>
> A front drag reel (for some) isn't as easy to re-adjust in the heat of the
> battle, but then again, a smooth drag, once it's set properly shouldn't
need
> to be re-set.
>
> Or, as I'm sure RichZ will chime in with, crank the drag down tight and
> learn to back-reel, which brings up a whole new set of questions for
> you..... :)
> --
> Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers
> http://www.outdoorfrontiers.com
> G & S Guide Service and Custom Rods
> http://www.herefishyfishy.com
>
>

[RichZ]

Allen wrote:
> don't back wind. That as assnine solution to learning
> the correct way to use your reels drag system...
>

With the exception of some of the postings made by Al and of course Rodney,
this is the most absurd statement I've ever read on this group. Backreeling
is not only a more efficient method of playing/fighting a fish, it's more
fun and puts you in more direct control of the action.

RichZ©
www.richz.com/fishing

[joe]

In article >, RichZ >
wrote:

> Allen wrote:
> > don't back wind. That as assnine solution to learning
> > the correct way to use your reels drag system...
> >
>
> With the exception of some of the postings made by Al and of course Rodney,
> this is the most absurd statement I've ever read on this group. Backreeling
> is not only a more efficient method of playing/fighting a fish, it's more
> fun and puts you in more direct control of the action.

I would only say that you might find it challenging to use with
bonefish, tarpon, snook, redfish, jacks and even fresh water species
like river/stream run trout and salmon steelhead.

Can't think of anything I typically fish for where back reeling would be
of much use. At least if I had any concern for my fingers and knuckles.

Also not something I would try to get someone new to fishing to start.

As always, different strokes for different folks.

As far as that goes turn your spinning reel up on top of the rod if you
want.

Good Fishin'

atljoe
--
"Atlanta Joe" aka Joe Webb
Flats fishing is Flat Fun!
Visit my site at http://flatsfisher.com

[Guy A.]

On Wed, 31 Mar 2004 23:31:03 -0500, "Allen" >
wrote:


>don't back wind. That as assnine solution to learning
>the correct way to use your reels drag system...

Like most fishermen, I do not back wind either. I have tried back
winding and did not find it to be particularly helpful.

But I would never label the technique "assinine", or at least I would
spell the word correctly.

[DiggityDanks]

I don't I will pick the Spirex after all since the store clerk told me
it was the least updated out of most/all the Shimano models. I think I
want the Sahara and saw some decent combos at Cabelas and Bass Pro but
my friend is telling me that the combos are not good at all. He hasn't
seen the websites but is assuming that they bundle low quality rods
with these reels. Is this true? I have seen the Tourney Trail,
ProGuide IM6, Fish Eagle® II, and Bionic Blade. Are these all just
generic rods that the stores put together in order to bundle with the
nicer reels? Would anybody actually recommend these because my friend
told me I shouldn't buy their combos.

[joe]

In article >,
(DiggityDanks) wrote:

> I don't I will pick the Spirex after all since the store clerk told me
> it was the least updated out of most/all the Shimano models. I think I
> want the Sahara and saw some decent combos at Cabelas and Bass Pro but
> my friend is telling me that the combos are not good at all. He hasn't
> seen the websites but is assuming that they bundle low quality rods
> with these reels. Is this true? I have seen the Tourney Trail,
> ProGuide IM6, Fish Eagle® II, and Bionic Blade. Are these all just
> generic rods that the stores put together in order to bundle with the
> nicer reels? Would anybody actually recommend these because my friend
> told me I shouldn't buy their combos.

Your friend may have his reasons but I have had very good use from the
combos I have purchased at Bass Pro and would think my experience would
be the same with Cabelas.

I have 5 Bionic Blade rods I have used in sal****er for the past two or
three years and have had little trouble. The problem I have had is with
the butt cushion breaking loose if I twist it too tight. They replaced
it for me free though. I have lost one eye due to line getting wrapped
around it. Since these are primarily 'freshwater' rods I might have
expected that they would not hold up. The eyes have done well and the
cork handles (as comfortable as any I have used) show little sign of use.

The rods that are bundled with the combos are the same that you can buy
separately. Not sure how that could be a 'cheap' rod. You can buy more
expensive even from Bass Pro if you want. I did get one bait caster
combo that had a rod that would be considered less than the Bionic Blade
but it was FREE with the reel. I could not argue with that as the reel
was on sale as well. The rod has also worked very well.

I can not give specifics for all the rods you mention but they get the
blanks many times from the same place as more expensive rods if not from
the manufactures themselves with a store brand added.

I would check the prices and if there is a significant savings on the
combo it should be a good bargain. If you live near a Bass Pro you can
certainly stop in and give it a closer look over. Both Bass Pro and
Cabelas stand behind their products and if you do not like the looks
when you get your order send it back.

Good Fishin'

atljoe
--
"Atlanta Joe" aka Joe Webb
Flats fishing is Flat Fun!
Visit my site at http://flatsfisher.com