FS Digest

I’m debating on getting my first bait caster. I have a spinning setup which has served me well over the past year and have conquered everything from panfish to 20+lb salmon on and was looking for opinions on wether to get one or not, and if I were to get one, which are some of the best on the market for my low to mid price range. (Combos suggestions and or reels) Also any feedback on the abu Garcia black max reel as that is one that I am looking at

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by Whawks28

charlykilo Loc: Garden Valley Ca

MHO if it ain't broke don't try to fix it. Just gotta try something new go for it.

Slimshady Loc: Central Pennsylvania

Big difference between a bait caster and a spinning outfit. If you decide to go with the bait caster you need to practice,practice,practice. You can cast further with it normally but it is different

Don Fischer

I started in with bait caster's about 1966, old Zebco direct drive. Terrible time learning to cast it but use my newer reels about the same way. It's probably just a personal thing really, I look good casting a level wind reel! But for cats I simply have this feeling that the round level wind reels are tuffer and probably handle bigger fish better. Then along come my stupid son and catch's fish with a spinning rod! Kid has a lot of nerve! If I were the OP I'd give a level wind a shot just to suit myself, never know unless you try! I've seen some pretty big salt water spinning reels that might catch a big cat, well maybe, they have caught some big sharks with them! End of the day it's all about preference, mostly I prefer casting reels and UL spinning reels. I prefer round casting reels but have a couple low profile reels set op on light rods and 4# line I like for smaller fish. Matter of fact I have about ten different round casting reels and only two low profiles. So needing to get some new low profiles so I don't appear to be practicing favoritism! That's easy for me, no wife!