spinning vs baitcaster reel

[HotRod]

Have only used spinning reels in the past,and have a few ? about baitcaster reels.
1) Are they mainly used for the surf?
2) Do you get more distance out of them vs a spinning reel?
3)Any recomendations for a reasonable $ reel for a rookie?

[justinfisch01]

1. Baitcasters are used for every type of fishing including bass fishing. Plugging for stripers, bucktailing for fluke. or Surf casting off the beach. A lot of people on here use them for surf fishing
2. Yes typically you get more distance. Its easier to throw heavier baits and weights. The line comes off staight instead of coils like a spinning reel.
3. I would say for a beginner and advance castes try Abu 6500 any model, Penn 525 mag, and the Daiwa Sl0-SH

[mdram]

id add an avet to the list, built like tanks, i got one as my first and couldnt be happier

although if your going to be throwing lures id go with a level wind

[justinfisch01]

I am not sure how well an Avet would be for a beginner. Those things are fast

[mdram]

its no problem after a static mag :)

[FINNBAR]

If you plan to use lighter lures and metals I find it more user friendly to stick with spinning gear. You can get some nice distance with the proper set-up.

[mdram]

define reasonable cost
reel $$
rod $$

[Railroader]

Any of the above mentioned baitcasters/conventionals would serve you well.

If you've never used casting gear before, keep in mind that there is a learning curve involved in getting good performance. It will require some practice, frustration, a lot of fishing line, and a solid commitment on your part.

This "thumb education" will not happen overnight, but I will tell you that it is time WELL spent, and well worth the trouble.

Anyone CAN learn to use casting gear, but relatively few take the time or make the commitment.

That is why you see the majority of fishermen with a spinner in their hands. It's use can be taught in minutes...

The good side to this, is that you will find LOADS of info and lots of folks here that will be glad to help you, should you choose "The Dark Side"...:cool:

Good luck, and welcome!

[Finger_Mullet]

For years I fished with spinners. Then I found P&S. I bought a decent spinner set up because the walmart special I had been using wasn't good enough anymore. Then after a few months I had to have a 525mag. Then a SHA 30. Then I picked up a old squidder and Bill Starling put a knobby mag on it.

It took me a few trips and several spools of line to get used to throwing a conventional. I practiced and practiced and practiced some more. Eventually I got the hang of it. Now it is like 2nd nature throwing a contentional. I have not blew one up in my last 3 trips. Knock on wood!!! :rolleyes:

Last Fall the men went on the annual fishing trip. My brother-in-law has a nice spinning set up. I was outcasting him 2 fold. I could throw the 525 mag twice as far as he could throw his Penn spinnger. Everyone that fishes with me now either has a conventional or will be buying and conventional soon after the trip.

It was the best move I ever made. You just have to put a little time in practicing before you get proficient with them. I suggest the 525 mag because it is so easy to learn to throw. The squidder is a different beast.

Darin

[FINNBAR]

For conventional it is tough to beat a knobby magged SX.

[Hannibal]

I've used the standard spinning setup for surf fishing lately (even bought a 950Sm with as 12' OM recently for LARGE stuff). However, while I thought I was getting good tosses out, I was quickly put in my place by a guy tossing a baitcaster/conventional.

Granted, I am 6'5" and about 265-270lbs and fancy myself as being fairly strong. This guy might have been 160lbs soaking wet and was damn near outcasting me 2 to 1 (felt like it at least).

Are you telling me - (given proper technique), that switching over to a baitcaster (Penn 525?) will put me THAT MUCH further out with the same rig?

(If yes, I am buying one tomorrow - lol).