I am looking to purchase a new baitcasting rod and reel. I was out with a friend this past weekend using a Shimano Curado reel and loved it. I am considering just getting that reel but would like to spend less than the $150 it would cost. Anyone have suggestions?
Also, I am righthanded, but as I am a beginner with baitcasting gear I find I am much better casting with my right arm and reeling with my left. Is this strange, or have others experienced the same thing?
Thank you for any input.
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There a few reels out there that cost around $50.00 to $75.00 that work well for me.
Look a the Phluger and Aubu Garcia's. I just bought a reel from the Bass Pro shop, they make there own brand. Tried it this last weekend and it performed great.
I didnt need the anti backlash as much with this one due to it having 5 bearings.
When shopping try buying the reel with as many bearing as you can afford! That is the key to quality and performance.
Good luck!
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If you ask the shop may have a left hand retrieve in the model you're looking at.
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The Abu Garcia combo's are really nice. The black max or silver max combo's are under 100 bucks and very good for beginner and will last you a life time if you take care of them.
edit: oh the left right handed thing. I use the left hand retrieve on my spinning reels and right handed on my bait casters. But almost all reels have the option for either hand. I really don't even think about it when I use my spinning reel and reel it in with my left hand. Never even thought about it really until I read your post.
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Most people I know cast with their right hands and reel in with their left.
It must be wanting to hold on to the rod with your strongest hand thing.
Bait casting reels do take some getting used to, I have to admit I have been lazy in this regard, I tend to use the reels I am most comfortable with.
I have seen guys who do quite well with them. but I agree, before I would spend $150 I would go garage sale hopping, you never know what you might find if you mention what you are looking for.
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buy cheap.... its not the 60's anymore...
most reels and rods are really good...
welcome to the modern world...
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I have a shimano caius reel. It's available in left hand retrieve, which I got at bass pro, around $70.
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