The right baitcaster

[Dhadley]

Re: The right baitcaster

I have a Shimano Calcutta 151, probably unbeatable in the sub $200 range. I also have a 201 TE DC Calcutta. Unbeatable in the $500 range.

Your rod choice, type line, how the line is spooled and bait weight are critical. Don't be afraid to try a spiral wrapped or Roberts wrapped rod. It does matter.

 

[mudmagnet63]

Re: The right baitcaster

Is it just me or do baitcasters work better with a stiffer rod. Seems like a light - Med. rod tends to backlash more than my heavy rods. I've put all my baitcasters on stiffer rods over the last few years and have done away with most of the birdsnest's. ABU 5000 5500C

 

[muleteer1]

Re: The right baitcaster

I like my Brownings. They are 10 BB and I got them for half off at BPS. Get the drags set right and you can cast them to the moon.

 

[muleteer1]

Re: The right baitcaster

I like my Brownings. They are 10 BB and I got them for half off at BPS. Get the drags set right and you can cast them to the moon.

 

[SgtMaj]

Re: The right baitcaster

Two years ago my wife and I treated ourselves to a couple of new spinning reels for Christmas. We went for some nice expensive ones, and wouldn't you know it, but they both broke on the 3rd time out (both reels' crank arms broke in half). Lesson learned was that more expensive doesn't equal higher quality.

Anyway, we salvaged the trip by buying a couple of $30 reels that have lasted just fine and havn't had any problem with in the last 2 seasons. In fact they still look and feel like new. Go figure.

Of course those were spinning reels, not bait casters, but I would imaging the same lesson applies.

 

[FLATHEAD]

Re: The right baitcaster

Bottom line is this. When you get up around the 200$ mark with casting reels it is hard to find one that is considered bad. As is obvious from this thread. It is all a matter of personal preference. I have several different brands on my rods and I cant say any of them are bad, but I do have my favorites.

 

[EMM]

Re: The right baitcaster

Abu Garcia Ambassaduers are about the best for the money. I use 4 of them and have little to no trouble. You can normaly find them for under $100 if you watch model you buy.

 

[wildmaninal]

Re: The right baitcaster

Abu Garcia Ambassaduers are about the best for the money. I use 4 of them and have little to no trouble. You can normaly find them for under $100 if you watch model you buy.

That is the kind I have . I picked mine up from a pawn shop a while back it is on a Berkley rod. The owner sorta stuck his foot in his mouth when he said "find something you like we'll make ya a deal on it". I got the rod and reel for $50.