Hi guys new to the forums, looking for some advice on new gear. I primarily frog fish heavy cover and occasionally open water. I'm looking to switch to a baitcaster for around 150 and a rod for around the same. I've been considering curado, tatula type r, and the lews MB from what I've read, and a st Croix rod. Im pretty new to baitcasters,Ive casted my brothers Abu black max maybe 10 times no major problems. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Lews tournament mb on a st croix mojo bass frog-n-slop rod

Are the lews tourney mb pretty user friendly?I'll most likely go to the store tomorrow to see everything in person, figure I'll be spending some time casting in the backyard after.

4 minutes ago, Moneymason93 said:

Are the lews tourney mb pretty user friendly?I'll most likely go to the store tomorrow to see everything in person, figure I'll be spending some time casting in the backyard after.

If the new MBs are anything like the other Lews products I've experienced, then it's a very forgiving reel and you'll enjoy it for a long time.

The MB I believe is an updated version of the MG, which is what is have. It's a good magnetic braking system.

LC

The mb's are very user friendly. I unfortunately had to sell mine but I'm planning on getting another one. The mb's magnetic brakes are easy to use and it is really hard to backlash.

Tatula Type R 8:1:1 off the auction site for $119, and a Dobyns Fury 735...you won't be disappointed

My brothers been trying to convert me to baitcasters for a while after seeing him haul out a 7# the other day on his setup I finally caved, pretty excited to go shopping!

i'd second the dobyns fury rod, which should run you about $110, less if you buy during a memorial day sale.  then you can take the $150-$200 left in your budget and buy the reel of your choice in that range.  lots of great options for around $150 or $200.

The Tatula 7'4" heavy froggin rod is a great choice for a rod. I have one and love it.  And for $150 an Abu Garcia Revo SX is a good reel. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Tatula and tatula ct. 

My rods and/or reels have never fogged up so I can't help you there.  ;  )

lews tmb 7plus ratio loaded with braid of your choice and a 7-3 or longer H action rod of your choice. You will not be disappointed in the reel that much I know for sure. 

I'd go with the St. Croix Mojo Slop-n-Frog Rod. It does very well in heavy cover. Pair it with whatever choice of reel you want as I don't think you can go wrong with the ones you are looking at. 

You can probably find these on clearance: http://www.bassresource.com/fishing_lures/primmus-reel-dhc-7-rod-review.html

Nice rod build, and a very nice reel; both are still in service as regular use.

Lew's BB1 Pro 8:1 and custom Lite speed stick heavy.

My current setup (waiting to spool it up) is a Lucky Craft 7'6" H XF rod and a Tatula Type R 8.1:1. 65 lb. P-Line braid. As far as reels you can't go wrong with either a Tatula or Tournament MB.

Only fished a triumph, fished it for 5 years, broke 2 months after the warranty expired... of course. But the Lew's MB is the way to go, love all of their reels. 

3 hours ago, racedad said:

Lew's BB1 Pro 8:1 and custom Lite speed stick heavy.

yesssir, that will do it.

On 05/18/2016 at 10:48 PM, loudcherokee said:

If the new MBs are anything like the other Lews products I've experienced, then it's a very forgiving reel and you'll enjoy it for a long time.

The MB I believe is an updated version of the MG, which is what is have. It's a good magnetic braking system.

LC

 

If we are talking the new Tournament MB, it is dual braking.

OP.  Yes they are user friendly.  So is the Tatula Type R and another great reel.  My choice for the rod would be the Tatula 7'4" Heavy.  Been wanting one for awhile, but waffled too long on the last one that I saw for sale.  The rod J Franco linked you to will be extremely hard to find in your price range unless you can find a used one although Optics Planet has the 7'11" Heavy for $190.  DHC7 rods are over $330 new.  The Primmus reel is also normally over your budget, but my last two were about $104.  Super nice reels, and I can highly recommend them.

I know a lot of you don't use or like ambassadeur 4600c4's but that is a powerhouse of a reel for froggin in the slop,just like a winch. I know it's a little heavy but I use em all the time..but that's me.