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Pointers for a Baitcasting Beginner

Ken Smith says:

John, This may explain why at 37 I'm still single - I've yet to find a girlfriend (or any female) willing to give me anything fishing related, for any holiday. Congratulations on your new rod. My reel preference is a narrow spool Ambassadeur with a thumb bar release. I like models 4600c, 521, 521 Plus or XLT. I choose AbuGarcia products for 2 reasons: they are very durable, and I can buy them from a place here in Dallas called Southwestern Parts. They get reels from all across the country that need work, rebuild them and resell some of them. Granted, they may have a scratch or two, but they have been gone through by hand and are always in perfect working order. They run from $35 to $45, according to model and condition. Their number is 214-630-8161. If I were going to buy a new one I would stick to one of these unless I had a $150 gift certificate burning a hole in my pocket, then I would look into one of Shimano's reels. I have borrowed different models from friends and they are excellent reels, as well. Hope this helps.

Hi John! Congratulations on your new rod. I think you can’t go wrong with any of Shimano’s reels. Most Shimano reels have a model number assigned to them. For average bass fishing look for model numbers in the "200" series. Just look at the price tags for a reel in your price range.  Regarding Shimano reels, they're ALL good. As for line, I frequently use Berkley Big Game in the dark green color (or clear for clear water). Line rating should usually be 12 to 15 lb. for most situations with baitcasting rod/reels. As for techniques, you already know where to find that info - in every issue of the Inside Line!

John, Some of my fondest and funniest memories came to mind when I read your letter asking about how to set up and use your new Ugly Stik. That's because my first baitcasting rod was also an Ugly Stik, and I made some pretty ugly casts trying to learn to use it. But once I got the hang of things I sure caught a lot of bass on that old rod. There are a lot of good reels on the market today, and by not trying to save money you'll get a piece of equipment that will alleviate many of the problems I encountered with mine. Any of the top brands will do as long as you buy in the middle of their line, or better. The key is to get a reel that is balanced with your Ugly Stik - take the rod with you to the store. Line weight depends on your specific rod, normally the proper sizes are printed right on the rod. The same goes for what techniques to use - it depends on your rod's action. But in general, because Ugly Stiks are made of both graphite and E-glass, they are generally suited well to reaction-type baits. Whatever you buy, my suggestion is to practice, practice and practice some more. Try to not get frustrated when you start out - you'll be catching lots of fish in no time. Wishin' you the best fishin'.

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