Here are the details of what I am using:Reel- Shimano Ultegra 5500 XSC- This is one of those reels that has an elongated spool for long distance casting. It will far outcast traditional narrow spooled reels. It looks like a big reel but weighs in at just 17.5 oz. It is one of the smoothest reels I have ever used. The line lays perfectly in tight, close loops on the reel due the slow oscillation of the reel, and I have not thrown a loop yet. The drag is simply superb. While I wonder how it would hold up to a heavy surf and constant splash, I can tell you it is ideally suited for the beach, jetties and dry, rocky areas, places I fish a lot. It sells in most places for $189. Well worth the money.
Rod- St. Croix Mojo 10 1/2 footer (moderate action)- Most fishermen know I am a big fan of St. Croix Mojos and this one is a home run in my book. It is 10 1/2 feet long but weighs just 12.8 oz. Check it out at St. Croix rods. It has the backbone to heave out plugs and lures in the 2+ ounce range yet has a light enough tip to cast lures in the 1/2 to 1 oz. range. It is ideally suited for long distance plugging. It balances perfectly with the Shimano 5500 described above. Highly recommended.Line- Power Pro 30 lb. test braided line. I loaded the reel above with about 50 yards of backing and then loaded it up with a 300 yd. spool of Power Pro. The line lays perfectly on the reel (check out photo) and you can actually load the reel right up to the lip of the spool.
In the last two weeks I have landed at least 15 albies, at least 15 keeper bass and 7 big blues along with some smaller fish with this outfit. It has really delivered in areas where a long cast is needed to reach feeding fish, and its operation has been flawless.
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| The outfit has allowed me to cast way out to breaking albies, stripers, and blues and has really delivered in the last month. |
