Guys, what do you recommend in an all purpose spinning rod? I realize that some guys have three rods for each technique, but if you had to take one rod in the boat that could do an acceptable job for most applications, which would it be? BTW, let's keep the price at 300.00 or less. Thanks......        NRA

i just got a g loomis sjr 783 6'6" MH its probably the best rod i own , i also have a mossyback bsr 803  jig & worm rod that i use for an all around rod this particular rod is my favorite spinning rod.

IMO your best bet would be a 7 ft medium power fast action rod. I throw senkos, tubes, shaky heads, weightless plastics and i plan to throw smaller jigs with it. I just bought a Shimano Compre 7' m/f and i am very happy with it. But for a price range of 300$ you have almost unlimited options. If i was you i would get to a Basspro or Cabelas or any tackle shop that carries rods and get your hands on some and see what you like, Good luck.

G.Loomis IMX SJR783 or 843.

8-)

G.Loomis IMX SJR783 or 843.

8-)

The 783 sounds like a great rod. What is a good reel to pair with it? I have a St Croix Premier with a Shimano Symetre 1500 on it that is really comfortable, and I love the size of the reel. What is a good match for that rod that isn't to big and clunky?

It depends on your pricing point, but the Symetre is a fine reel. For twice the price, the new Stradic 1000FI or 2500FI would be nice.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0049276122386a&type=product&cmCat=SEARCH&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=stradic&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=stradic&noImage=0

8-)

It depends on your pricing point, but the Symetre is a fine reel. For twice the price, the new Stradic 1000FI or 2500FI would be nice.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0049276122386a&type=product&cmCat=SEARCH&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=stradic&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=stradic&noImage=0

8-)

I guess the 2500 series spooled with 12 pound mono would be a good fit for the Loomis rod? I know alot of folks use really heavy lines, but 8 pound mono is my usual fare, so 12 seems plenty stout to me...

For spinning reels I recommend Yo-Zuri Hybrid Ultra Soft #6 (.010" diameter, 11.9 lb test). If your drag is set properly, this line is strong enough to handle any freshwater fish. I have never been broken off fishing this line.

8-)