If you're not sure you'll like baitcasting gear, try to borrow a rig. This is certainly cheaper than buying, but be forewarned that may be like asking to borrow another man's girlfriend for a shake-down trial.

In any event, you'll need to learn how to cast a baitcaster efficiently in order to weigh the merits of baitcasting gear before you buy. (YouTube is a no-cost resource; see "Roland Martin")

In the world of Bass fishing, spinning gear generally is designed for light rod (M-F), light line (10lb or less) and light lures (3/8 oz. or less), while baitcasting is designed for power - heavier rod (M-H, F), heavier line (12lb or more) and heavier lures (3/8 oz. or more).

Hope this helps, Studley.

Have read that worldwide fishing is now a $50 BILLION a year industry. Think about that for a minute. The producers are working 24/7 to roll out the next shiny object - in every conceivable color, size and material. Unrelenting marketing campaigns pressure us to convince us to buy everything in sight at the tackle store. The implication, of course, is that we won't succeed unless we have all that stuff (80% of which doesn't even work, IMO).

If you are a newbie, DON'T FALL FOR THIS. Pay close attention to the wise men in this forum when they encourage moderation and common sense. You will thank them many times over.

Hope you left some gear at the tackle store for the rest of us...

Curado DC is a great choice. Want to marry mine.

Also, if you're right-handed, strongly consider purchasing a LEFT-HANDED reel (Curado DC 151). If you do, you'll probably never purchase another right-hand baitcaster.

That is sound advice, Daniel.

Purchased an Abu Garcia 6500C casting reel in 1986 and never made time to use it until last year. Purchased a 7’ AG rod (medium action - with soft tip!) at the same time.

No secondary braking on this little jewel - only the spool tensioner. I love this reel.

You are right on every point. Doesn’t cast far but let’s you learn the mechanics of using a casting reel in a forgiving way.

By comparison, the Shimano Curado DC 150HG in my rod rack is a totally unforgiving mistress. She will make you pay for even the slightest inattention.

Don’t doubt your baking skills, WVA, but if you’re every passing through Houston DO NOT MISS the opportunity to sample fresh Texas jalapeño cornbread at the original Goode Company BBQ. You’ll be talkin’ about it for years.