I have some expensive, and some cheap baitcasters. I would say that the
cheap ones have a higher chance of disappointing you, but soem aren't too
horrible. The biggest thing seems to be durability.

I swore by my Quantum Accursits until just recently. (79 -99 dollars) They
have started to fall apart at around a year old or slightly less. They
fished very well. I have a Daiwa (69.95 at Wally World) that has done
fairly well except that the nut that holds the handle on has stripped out.
I have two (2) MT1000H Bass Pro reels that are working fairly well. Both
are relatively new, but they are working ok. I was casting heavy spinner
baits with one, and unweighted plastics with the other. (I think these cost
39.95, but I won them in either a tournament or club raffle respectively)

I just purchased a Pflueger President ($12?.00 on sale) and it works about
the same as my cheaper Quantums. I may be able to pitch slightly further
with it but that is pretty hard to quantify. I know I backlash it slightly
more often, but that may be because it is harder to adjust the brakes on it.

Personally I think the Quatum Accurists were the best reel for me to get
into using a baitcaster with, but they are not as durable as some more
expensive reels. Yes I do have a Shimano Curado also, but I never really
felt comfortable with it.

--
Public Fishing Forums
Fishing Link Index
www.YumaBassMan.com

webmaster
at
YumaBsssMan
dot
com
"Sarge" wrote in message
...

"C Carter" wrote in message
...
I'm looking to investin a baitcasting combo. Any suggestions? Also, any
tips on learning how to cast them without creating backlash?

C Carter


I would try a Shimano Curado and purchase a bait casting rod to go with
it.
When I learned to throw one, I was told by a lot of friends don't try to
learn on a cheap baitcaster because all it will due is frustrate you and
you
will give up. What they were referring to more then price was the design
features of the baitcaster. I did found it was easier to learn on a low
profile baitcaster then something built like the Shimano Calcutta. I
would
look for something with anti backlash features. Most now come with brakes
that can be adjusted as you learn to throw it.

Also purchase a practice lure and try throwing it in the yard short
distances. After tying a lure to the line, you need to adjust the cast
control knob so that the weight of the lure drops very slow. If you hold
the rod straight out and press the button the lure should drop to the
floor
very slow. When the lure its the floor the reel should not continue to
spin
forward.

The drag should be set properly just like you do on other reels.

Here is a link that might help you on your casting.
http://www.etackle.com.au/pages/baitcast.htm

Most important tips I can give you is always remember to use your thumb
and
never cast into the wind.


Sarge