RedA Loc: Stow, MA

I’m looking to move into a stronger reel to move into big baits and bigger LM bass.
Both have strong drags but the Revo is a little lighter.
Any words of wisdom/experience?

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

RedA: I assume you are referring to Black Bass, or Large Mouth Bass. To my knowledge almost any bait casting reel is adequate. My personal best was a 9 lb. Black Bass caught in El Salto, Mex. and it was on a Shimano reel. The biggest I've ever heard of is perhaps 13 to 14 lbs. and that would not require a large, salt water reel that folks use for salt water species. The reason for larger reels is line capacity. Salt water fish can strip off a lot of line, thus the capacity. The only fresh water fish I'm aware of in the South is a large (100 lb. plus) Alligator Gar!

More than a big reel, pay close attention to both your line strength and the security of all your knots, which will have a lot to do with landing your Personal Best! I suggest you regularly run the last few feet of your line through your thumb and fore finger to feel for any nicks. If you detect any abnormality, cut and retie. Having a nick in your line, or an improperly tied knot are the main reasons you might lose a whopper! Just sayin....RJS

RedA Loc: Stow, MA

Thanks. That’s good advice as I start focusing on bigger game 🎣

Jeremy Loc: America

Hit the NIC on the line....RJS... or nail on the head. That’s for sure. Especially when fishing where there is rock ledges etc.

RedA Loc: Stow, MA

Thanks, rjs!
All my fishing is freshwater and in MA I would never expect a LM above 10 lbs☹️
How much line would you expect that I would need for them & baits up to 5 Oz?
I think that the Revo Inshore holds 180 yds +/- and the Tranx 230 yds. The Revo is 2-3 Oz lighter and both are in the 20lb drag range.