Hello all,

If you haven't heard kistler is having a bogo offer and I couldn't resist. Bought myself a helium spinning rod and when I came to choosing my free mag rod I didn't know what to get! I don't have a baitcaster and really think I need one so I grabbed this:

New 2012 Micro Magnesium All Purpose Med-Heavy 6' 9" Cast

http://www.kistlerrods.com/p/fishing-rod/c-Mic-Magnesium-Fishing-Rods/MicMgAPSMH69.html

Seemed like a good rod to start with and I got it for free! Now I need a reel! From my extensive spinning rod experience I know that shimano, Abu Garcia, and pflueger make nice reels. What should I get? Preferably under 100, but I can stretch my budget to $150 maybe

Thanks,

Mike

Looks like a nice rod! Let us know how it does for you?

The Abu revo S is a good reel for the current close out price. I also like the SX if you can find one. Shimano has both the citica and curado in that price range. I do prefer the dual breaking reels especially for beginners. BPS has the PQ for around $100 + shipping. Lew's has the Tournament Speed Spool for around $150.

What ever you choose, You'll also need to consider gear ratio's. Slow moving bottom baits I'd go with a 7.1:1 ratio. All around(like the rod) I would go with a 6.4:1 ratio. The 6's would probably be my choice.

I'm not very experienced with baitcaters and my first good reel is a Shimano Curado 51e. I am in love with this reel. I am a beginner and I can still cast light baits and cast into the wind if need be. I love this reel. It is so smooth.

Alright.....I will look around and head to my local bps or dsg. Thanks guys! More suggestions are welcomed!

Just to let you guys know I got a good deal on a shimano curado 201 e7 from the flea market for $142 to my door!! When, and if, it arrives I will tell you how I like it, even though there are 50 billion threads about the reel!

Thanks for all your help,

Mike