Nor-Cal Basser

It's all preference. I'm right handed, but I use left handed reels exclusively. The only problem I have encountered doing this is that certain companies don't make all of their gear ratios available in a left hand format. Lews is a good example of this.

I absolutely see where you're coming from. A little more flex can be nice when using braid, as long as there's enough backbone to set the hook and keep it pinned. I usually use fluoro, and a F or even XF works well for me, but with braid I want a bit more flex.

I've had this happen very infrequently on my Tatula. It only happens if I re-engage the clutch very slowly. Even then, it's only happened maybe three times and I've had that Tatula since 2013. Take it out and fish it. If it's consistently happening with just normal use, I would send it in.

Either a fast or extra fast action with power depending upon the weight of the jig I'm throwing and the cover that I'm working.

You can find a brand new Lews LFS on EBay right in your budget. They're solid reels with an aluminum frame. I'm a little weird about buying used reels unless I know the person I'm buying from, though plenty of people buy used reels without having any issues.

Shimano Crucials are excellent rods. I have a 6' 8" M/XF and a 6' 10" MH/F. Good sensitivity, light, comfortable. Can't complain about them at all. That being said, you may want to look into a fast action rather than a more moderate cranking rod since you said you'll be throwin spinnerbaits.

Well, I got to handle the Cardiff 300 and 400. Almost pulled the trigger on a Calcutta, but the price was a tad high for me. I just can't justify dropping a lot of cash on a technique that I'm not sure I'll use heavily yet. Went with the Cardiff 300, since the 400 just felt too big. Spooled it up with 20lb CXX and was able to throw an 8 inch Hudd 40 yards in a grassy field. Capacity seems to be adequate, but man, these big baits sure cast like nothing else. Thanks for all the responses guys!

Hi all, New member, long time reader. After recently breaking the double digits, I've caught the big bass bug. So, of course, a swimbait rig is in order. Went down to my local tackle shop and picked up a 7' 9'' Irod Genesis II Large Swimbait rod. As far as reels go, I'm seriously considering a Shimano Cardiff in either a 300 or 400 size. I plan on using 20 or 25 lb P-Line CXX to throw 8 inch Hudds and other similarly sized or slightly larger baits. What size Cardiff would be ideal for this setup? I'm open to suggestions on other reels as well, as I'm totally new to the big swimbait game. Thanks, Colin

Long time reader, brand new member. I've been reading the forums for about five years. I've learned a lot from this site and figured that I needed to join up. Been fishing almost all 19 years of my life. Focused on trout for a long time, but the bass bug bit me five years ago. I fish Clearlake at least once a week and plan to focus on large swimbaits in the near future. Glad to be here!