So I'm putting my christmas list together and I'm trying to decide if I want to get a bait caster and if so which one. I have no clue what the advantages to bait casters are or what I should look for in buying one. I have a feeling a lot of you guys know more about this topic than I do. I'd love to hear from you. Thanks.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 1:13 am

What is your price range for the reel? A great reel that is very easy to use is a Shimano Citica.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 12:21 pm

I was lookin at the $70-80 range. Wasn't sure if I should go with a combo and get the rod too or buy them separately.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 1:45 pm

I am sure you can find a nice combo at BPS on sale right now. I personally prefer to buy the reel and rod separate. Also, check out ebay, right about now the tourney guys start selling their 1 year old stuff for cheap beause they are getting all their new stuff soon. I might have a couple extra Quantum accurists if you are interested in one.

The biggest thing you want in a baitcaster is easy castablility. Part of that is time on the water using it and the other part is the right settings.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 2:02 pm

I've probably posted a million times how much I like my Quantum Bill Dance Select baitcast combo, but it doesn't seem that they make it anymore! It was 60 bucks and casts a mile. Definitely a good rod to learn on at a low price. If Quantum makes a different combo, it might be worth looking into.

I would steer clear of Bass Pro Shop reels. I used to think they were the balls, but after a few months of use, they stopped working so well and I've had problems with both of the ones I own (and I didn't buy the real cheap ones, they were both between 80 and 100). I imagine the high end ones work better, but I won't be buying anymore of them.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 3:40 pm

Jmo a baitcaster is great for heavier lines and lures. If you like to fish weeds or anything that will snag, you are better of with a baitcaster.
In my experience most reels in the 100+ range work great. These reels work with magnets and tension knobs coupled with momentum of the lure. The better reels have tighter tolerances when machined and will be easier and smoother to operate. To begin with also try 3/8 oz lures or heavier.
Good luck i really like mine

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 5:30 pm

what are you going to be using it for do you know? crankbaits, spinnerbaits, heavier plastics, pitching flipping? there are more common reel "specs" for certain techniques. there are different gear ratios, magnetics, and so forth. if you're looking for a cheap rod, let me know. bangbang is right...i'm trying to dump some stuff and i have some pretty good rods if you're looking for it separately.

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 6:26 pm

This reel got great reviews by in-fisherman mag and it was voted best value
http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Caenan_100_Series_Casting_Reels/descpage-SCE.html

Posted Tue Dec 07, 2010 10:20 pm

bangbang

This reel got great reviews by in-fisherman mag and it was voted best value
http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Caenan_100_Series_Casting_Reels/descpage-SCE.html



That looks like a good deal!

Posted Wed Dec 08, 2010 10:18 am

yaa I might have to try one out next year.

Posted Wed Dec 08, 2010 11:29 am

I just switched to a baitcaster this past season. I had similar questions to you. The suggestion to try used equipment is a valid option. I was given the same advice and was able to find a good deal on 2 reels and a rod. For $200 on Craigslist I found a Mojo rod, a used Curado, and a used Citica. These were my first reels and I have been very happy with them.

Charlie

Posted Wed Dec 08, 2010 12:58 pm

Hey this was my first year with a baitcaster, I went to Basspro and spoke to 1 guy for half hour and he talked me into a Bill Dance combo. BEST $59 I ever spent. I how have 2 of them Great rod and reel combo for the price, If you get made and toss the the thing into the water no big lose! Oh and when you have calmed down from usen the thing you can swing back and pick it up, Ya it floats.

Posted Wed Dec 08, 2010 8:28 pm

meatballs

Hey this was my first year with a baitcaster, I went to Basspro and spoke to 1 guy for half hour and he talked me into a Bill Dance combo. BEST $59 I ever spent. I how have 2 of them Great rod and reel combo for the price, If you get made and toss the the thing into the water no big lose! Oh and when you have calmed down from usen the thing you can swing back and pick it up, Ya it floats.



This is exactly the one I was talking about!!! It seems like they don't sell it at Bass Pro online anymore...maybe they still have some at the store! I should go buy a few...

Posted Wed Dec 08, 2010 8:50 pm

I decided to go with the Daiwa Exceler Ultra High Speed. I'll get back to you in mid march and let you know how it's going.

Posted Thu Dec 09, 2010 11:53 am

GOODLUCK!

Posted Thu Dec 09, 2010 12:36 pm

Display posts from previous:

MA Fish Finder

Social Links