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Pair A Reel To My Rod.

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So I took advantage of the 2 for $50 deal on the Rick Clunn rods and they're working really great for me so far. Right now I have the lipless crank which is 7' M paired with a 6.4:1 Johnny Morris Signature series. I use it for square bills and lipless cranks. The other rod is the jerbait rod which is 6'6 MH, I don't have a reel on it. I'm thinking about using it for poppers and and other hard jerkbaits like rapala xraps. Maybe even throw some buzz baits on it because I have nothing else to throw them on. So to do these things what reel should I put on it? I was thinking a high ratio like 7 something. The reel needs to be left handed and a budget reel. $100 max. I will also buy used if you have anything to offer.

Thanks,

Christian

Bass Pro Shops Pro Qualifier. Best reel for $100 by far. At least I think so.

  • Author

I figured that's the answer I would get. But they're not on sale right now so I didn't know if there was anything else. Am I right when it comes to gear ratios and uses for each setup?

  • Super User

Bring your rod, and get a feel for the ergonomics.  I prefer a VERY small and light reel for this (Daiwa Alphas) simply because of the hand fatigue this awkward retrieve can sometimes dish out. Comfort trumps all else in this application. Speed isn't necessary, Max drag isn't necessary. 

  • Super User

I wasn't really recommending a specific reel, just making a point that it needs to be comfortable.  Alphas sell on the used market for well under $200 used.  I think I paid $160 for mine.

  • Super User

If you're interested in Daiwa, the Lexa 100 has to be close to your price range.  I haven't fished one yet, but casted in the yard, and had them apart on my bench.  Very well built.

  • Super User

A 7 ratio would be fine for this, but I do use for my topwaters the 6 ratios because I find sometimes I going to fast with a buzzbait.  Just a personal preference,

  • Super User

If you're interested in Daiwa, the Lexa 100 has to be close to your price range.  I haven't fished one yet, but casted in the yard, and had them apart on my bench.  Very well built.

I have two of these reels and they are good reels.  They roughly go for around 130-140 retail, I bought both mine below 100 one at the BPS reel trade in (89.99 plus it was on sale) and I bought one at a local store who had it on sale for 85 if I remember correctly.  So I'm sure you can find a deal somewhere.  However, saying that I still find I use my Shimano and BPS PQ reels regularly, they are serving more as a back up. 

  • Super User

I had a few, along with the special edition "Black Widow" version.  Too bulky and heavy for anything other than pitching jigs and t-rigs.  Built like a tank, though.  The HSTA has a nicer handle, and is a bit better caster.

  • Super User

I had a few, along with the special edition "Black Widow" version.  Too bulky and heavy for anything other than pitching jigs and t-rigs.  Built like a tank, though.  The HSTA has a nicer handle, and is a bit better caster.

 

 

A few of the lexas or Advantages?

 

Sorry, I was referring to the Advantages in this post.  I don't own any Lexas.....yet. ;)

  • Super User

That's a no for me.  It might be different for you, though.  It'll certainly do the job, and do it well.  Just wasn't very comfortable for your applications listed above.

  • Author

My only concern is do you think I will be able to find something a little more comfortable in that price range? And what do you think on the ratio for this application? 7.? or 6.?

  • Super User

Ratio doesn't matter. You move the bait with your rod. The reel just holds the line. Mine is only 5.8:1. I also use my Zillion for these baits on occasio, and it's 7.1:1.

  • Super User

Yeah, I read that a lot here, and I somewhat agree.  A faster ratio - 6:1 or greater - probably allows more multi purpose use.  Realize, I've been doing this since 5:1 reels were called "high speed" lol.

  • Super User

You calling me old? :laugh5:

  • Author

I wouldn't say old... more like more knowledgeable and skilled than I am. More experienced. Lol. Your only as old as you act in my opinion.

  • Super User

Very true! I turned 21 for the 20th time yesterday.  Good luck with the reel hunt - post pics in here when you get it: http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/40660-show-off-your-stuff/

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