I have a Sahara 1000 and it pairs ok with an older 6’ quantum rod that I toss a lot of 1/8 oz metal on. Would this reel be ok for a 6’6” light premier or would a 2500 size be better?

what you fishing for? 2500 is very versatile size and you can do it for bass and trout/Panfish at the same time.

It’s mainly for trout but sometimes move to panfish/smaller bass.

 

and title says 6’ but I meant 6’6”

I have a 6'6 Premiere I use for crappie and stocked trout. Mine is a light action, and I use a size 1000 Shimano reel also. The 1000 size Sahara should work well.

I went up to a 2500 Fuego LT on my 6’6” light premier from a 1000 Nasci. I can’t say I prefer one size to the other with that specific rod, but I think 2500 is the jack of all trades size. If you are gonna be using something like 4 or 6 pound Fluoro/mono, the 1000 size might be better. 8 pound and I’d kick it up to 2500

I use a Stradic 1000 on my 6’6” L Premier. I have a 2500 too but have no reason to use it on the light rod.

I would use a 1000 on the Premier Light - that's the size I use on my L/F rod. Keeps the weight down is the main thing.

Strong preference for 1000 series.

If distance is a priority or you plan on using FC then the bigger spool dia of the 2500 would be the way to go IMO.  The weight of an Exceler or Fuego 2500 compared to most 1000 Shimanos at a lower price point is just about the same, so balance wouldnt be an issue.  It comes down to preference in the end.

Thanks for the input everyone. This will be my stream/smaller pond rod so the 1000 sized reel is fine. I have bad wrists/ elbow so balance is important for me.