I have a 7ft St. Croix Legend Elite panfish rod and i need help with what reel to pair it with. I was thinking of the Shimano stradic  1000 or 2500 size. Or the Shimano Vanford 1000, 2000, or 2500 size. If there’s any other reels I should consider let me know. Thank you.

I would go with the Vanford 1000 or 2000. It would make a very nice ultralight combo.

I have both these reels and they do go great with most ultralight rods.

The stradic is alittle heavier and doesn't feel as finesse as the Vanford.

Or go more high end and get the new Vanquish or Daiwa Airity. Both are nice options too.

If you stay with Shimano then, I would think Vanford 1000 or 2000 (basically same body size just deeper spool for the 2000) would be the better choice IMO.

I’d say Stradic FL 1000.    I’m sure the vanford is a good one.   I didn’t like the feel of myself personally.   I use a Stradic fl 1000 on my panfish combo and couldn’t be happier.  

But both a 1000 and 2500 and return one that you don't like. I'd go with the vanford, but if you like a 1000 size you might have to go stradic to get the proper balance. I have the 6'4" LEP and use a 1000" but you have another 8" to balance. 

stradic 1000

 

I have used various models of the stradic over the years and they all have been awesome. 

 

a 1000 size balances well with most longer ultralight/light rods. 

 

I'd say the Vanford 2000 I have one on a Loomis Ned Rig rod and its a pretty light dang combo sire it'll go well with the Croix.

Daiwa Luvias 1000, that is one of the smoothest spinning reels on the market, only other better would be the Shimano Stella. 

Stella FK 1000 is what I use for UL spinning. A functional work of art.  The vanford is a good budget alternative.

Luvias FC 2000

Vanford c2000 something, depends on what gear ratio you want. Same size and weight as 1000, a bigger and deeper spool gives you more lines and better casting distance.  

I was wondering if the UL and L versions are stiffer than their rating. 

I'm only a year late to seeing this thread. I  bought the 7' L  a few months ago. I think it casts better than any UL that I have. I'll pay bigger bucks for quality rods but as far as reels they are just line holders though a good drag is mandatory. I refuse to pay $250 for a Vanford when for $109 I can buy 2 Diawa Fuego 2500's that are smooth as silk both in drag and cranking. Even the the lesser priced Diawas are close.