I have a new Alabama Rig (7'6" Heavy) rod and was wondering what reel to compliment with it.

 

Because of the weight of the lure I was curious if I would be risking my setup by pairing it with something like a Abu Silver Max or Pro Max.

 

Would I tear up the bearings on that if I rigged this up using an Alabama Rig?

 

Would I be better suited to pair it up with something stronger/more expensive?

Lews super duty was meant for that type of stuff specifically. Lots of drag, holds lots of braid, brass gears and an extra long handle. Unless you want a round reel.

The A-rig won't "Tear them up" per say but something a little more solid and maybe lower IPT like a Winch, E5 or round reel would be a little easier on you and the reel.

I use a revo winch and the lower ratio and more IPT really helps out. 

I use a Abu Garcia 5600  (old school round reel). Big spool for line capacity and casts a mile

I use a Calcutta 200B or TD-X for umbrella rigs.

You don´t want an "inexpensive" reel for that use, you need something rock solid and quality made for that purpose. Go cheap now and you´ll end up spending more, better spend well once so you´ll never have to spend again.

I use a Shimano Cardiff 300. I don't know why but I like a round reel for super heavy baits.

I use a Shimano Cardiff 300. I don't know why but I like a round reel for super heavy baits.

Same reel here

A guy on another forum has been using an H2O Mettle for over a year now for nothing but A-rigs and says he's had no issues with it. He fishes Beaver Lake a lot so he's tossing 5 arm rigs and tangling with not only bass but stripers and wipers so take that for what it's worth. 

I've been using a Curado 301E for a little over a year and absolutely love this reel for A-Rigs. It holds plenty of line has a great drag and it is solid. I'd recommend this reel to anyone looking for a reel for A-Rigs.

 

In a pinch when I've fished with a friend on his boat I've used an Abu Ambassadeur 6601 that worked perfectly fine but it sure isn't in the same class as the 301E. Not nearly as much cranking power and I couldn't get the same distance on my casts. It works but just not at the level I'm used to. 

I was using a mettle, but have now switched to a curado 100b. I haven't had any issues with the small reels

Based on the suggestions on this post I settled for the new Abu Garcia Ambassadeur SX.

 

 

 

Thanks to all.  Can't wait to try it out!