CGray97

What do you suggest? I just have the basic SLX now

Is it worth the money or is there a better reel for the same price??? I've heard some guys saying theirs are "geary" and noisy and others say theirs are smooth and quiet. Looking to make my first "big"(to me) purchase on a reel just not sure what to get. $200-220 budget. I'm far from a pro and will mainly be pond and small river fishing if that helps.

If you knew what you know now and had it to do over again what would have been your first baitcaster setup? Rod and reel, money not being a factor. I know sifting through different gear is part of the fun and I know alot of guys go through tons of money finding the perfect combos for them (I'm currently experiencing this?) but I've been curious about this question.

I'd like to stay under $200

Thank you much for the info. I may have to order one to try out. You think the 6'6 Triumph M/F and slx XT paired would make a good rig for topwater and small plastic rigs like ned rigs, senkos, flukes etc?

Recently picked up an SLX 8:2:1 for my primary setup however, I feel there's got to be much better reels out the for around the same amount of money. I'm in the market for another reel (150 or less) and am curious what you consider the "best" for the money in terms of smoothness, manageability, control, etc? What's the best all around gear ratio for texas rigs, flukes, poppers, ploppers, spinnerbaits, and buzzbaits if there is such thing? TIA

Just picked up a new SLX 6'10 MH 8:2:1 for my primary rig but I'm looking for a 6'6 M/F or XF for topwater poppers, ploppers, walking baits, flukes,etc. My budget is around $100 or so. I want a quality rod that's going to serve its purpose well. I plan to pair it with a 7:1:1 or so reel. Any help or advice would be appreciated as I'm fairly green to all of this. TIA