I'm looking at getting my first casting rod and reel. I want an all around combo seeing as it is my first. I only want to spend around 150 +/-. I've picked out the BPS Pro Qualifier Reel/CarbonLite Trigger Rod. 6.4:1 gear ratio and 7' MH/F rod. Would anyone else second this choice or have any other suggestions? Thanks.

There have been a few topics like this within the past week or two (even one by yours truly ), so if you don't get too many replies here try checking out these topics. Some of the responses may be similar to what you're looking for.

I've never used a casting setup before, so I'm not going to be the most helpful person here. But from what I hear, the PQ reels seem to be one of the better house brand reels available. I can't say much for the rod brand/model, but a 7' MH/F is a good power/action for an all around use.

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/104729-baitcasting-setup/

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/104464-first-baitcasting-setup/

Thanks Caleb. Those other threads definitely helped. BPS has a combo for 160 and it just seems like too good a deal to pass up for what I'm looking for. Unless someone else gets on here and talks me out of it that looks like my rod and reel.

Save your money, get a Citica and a $50 rod. It will be worth it in the long run when your still using the Citica 10 years + later. Put it on a MH Sellus rod and be done with it.

I would buy an Abu Garcia or a Shimano. The problem with BPS reels is that the one you buy might last 10 years or bust the second time you use it.

How does the Citica compare with the Revo SX in yalls opinions?

I have the same reel, although it came on a different rod. I did change out the rod, didn't like the action on the original. I must be one of the lucky ones since I am still catching fish with it. I would suggest checking the drag often. I did find the drag to be inconsistent when the reel was new. After a reasonable breakin everything worked fine.

SX is magnetic brakes only. In my opinion not good. Centrifigal brakes are easier and more precise. Citica is going to be the better of the 2. If your gonna spend the extra $, just buy a Curado.

Haha, that was about to be my next question. Is the Curado G going to be that much better? I don't want to pay more than I have to, but I also believe in getting something thats quality and going to last.

They will both last as long as you take care of them. If it were me, I would spend the extra $ for the Curado, its built a little better. The Citica is not a bad reel though, I have a Citica G6, and I like it.

Much thanks everyone. LMG, thanks for all the help. You definitely swayed my choice. I'll see what funds look like coming up and make my decision after that.

I have BC reels from Shimano, Daiwa, Pfleuger, Quantum and Bass Pro and frankly I can't tell a bit of dirrerence. Get what every seems the correct choice to you!

There are a couple of Citicia offered at a good price on our Flea Market.

http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/104985-shimano-citica-200e-w-boca-os-7s/#entry1147974

I would get the first one with Boca bearings if it is still availble.

Nope, I snagged the Boca Bearings Citica E. Sorry, needed it for my collection.

Nope, I snagged the Boca Bearings Citica E. Sorry, needed it for my collection.

Greedy, greedy, Shimano hoarder. LOL

Hootie

Haha, well....eveyone wants lews now, so I figured noone would mind.

Right now I only own one baitcaster, Its a 100% BPS Setup and im very happy with it. Johnny Morris 6:4:1 On a Nitro 7'MH. I think 7'MH or 6'6" M/MH is the way to go for an all around rod.

Wow. Thanks for the help yall.

I highly disagree with LMG about buying a decent reel, and just getting a $50 rod.

If your just starting out, a Citica will be one of the best reels to get. I know my Gander Mountain still has the E series for like, $80.

But dont skimp on your rod just to get a better reel. The Carbonlite is a fine choice and a very good rod for its price point, and I would highly recommend it. Another good rod is the Powell Diesel. Daiwa also makes a T-Series rod which is far better than any SHIMANO in it's price range. Gander Mountain also has very good house brand rods, which I also like. Your rod is whats going to catch your fish, the reel just brings them in and presents your lure. It's all about balance. I would recommend about $80 on your reels, and $80 on your rod.

I have BC reels from Shimano, Daiwa, Pfleuger, Quantum and Bass Pro and frankly I can't tell a bit of dirrerence. Get what every seems the correct choice to you!

I have reels from Daiwa, Shimano, Pflueger, Abu and Lews. Think they are all good reels. However, it is also my personal opinion that a reel with centrifugal or dual brakes is easier to learn on. Less problems with backlashes for a beginner. Again, that is just my personal opinion. Mileage may vary for others.

I have reels from Daiwa, Shimano, Pflueger, Abu and Lews. Think they are all good reels. However, it is also my personal opinion that a reel with centrifugal or dual brakes is easier to learn on. Less problems with backlashes for a beginner. Again, that is just my personal opinion. Mileage may vary for others.

Absolutely agree!!

I started to ween myself off of useing spinning gear 100% of the time about 2 yrs ago. One of the many things I learned about choosing the right equipement was, I got bettter and better minimizing backlashes useing reels with either...

Centrifical brakes...Revo S [Man, I love that reel] or Dual brakes...PQ, JM Sig.

The one Mag only reel I bought was a bps Extreme that I don't even try to cast anymore.

I use it only for flipping and pitchin.

Mike