There are tons of options
available out there for
rod and reels but the best thing you can do is hit the tackle stores
and
get a feel for which one you prefer.
I only use baitcasting
reels. The other option
available is spinning reels. Baitcasting reels are in my opinion much
easier
to use and cause fewer problems.
As far as equipment goes you
can get a Hyundai
or a Cadillac of fishing rods and reels. If you are just getting
started
look for a good middle of the road system that will be durable and
reliable.
I recommend you go to a tackle store where there is someone who knows
about
the equipment they are selling (you are not likely to get any quality
information
to make your decision at a super store like Wal Mart).
Talk to the guys that sell
the equipment and tell
them what you are looking to fish for and what options you want, and
how
much money you want to spend.
Be sure and look at the product
reviews section to learn more about some great equipment
options.
Baitcasting Reels
In looking for a baitcasting
reel look for a good
name brand like Abu Garcia, Browning, Shimano or Quantum. There will be
reels available at the stores anywhere from $40 to $300. Any reel in
the
$40 to $60 range will be good to get you started. Bass Pro Shops makes
an
excellent line of reels also that are very fairly priced. Check out the
CatMaxx reels they have available.
Make sure the reel has an
adjustable drag on it.
Another good option to look for is a bait clicker (which the CatMaxx
has).
Baitclcikers are an essential part of the reel for a catfisherman.
If you are okay with a reel in the over $75 price range then the
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Classic Round Baitcast Reels are
the way to go. You can get these at Bass Pro or any other major
retailer and you can also find some really good deals from time to time
on if you are willing to buy a used one.
Rods
Just like the reels there
are tons of rods available
in all different price ranges.
Make sure you are getting a
graphite rod in either
a medium light, medium heavy or heavy action. I prefer a medium heavy
action.
Look on the rod just above the handle and it will be printed with the
action
of the rod and the line and lure weight capacity. Handle the rods and
make
sure you are comfortable with the grip/handle and get a feel for the
action
of the rod to decide if you want a medium light, medium heavy or heavy.
I prefer "casting" rods
because they
have a longer handle and are easier to handle when fighting a fish. The
smaller grips have a tendency to get away from you during a fight with
a
fish.
Make sure you are getting
the correct rod for the
reel you are purchasing. There are different rods for baitcasting and
spinning
reels.
Shakespeare makes a line of
rods called "Ugly
Stiks" they are good rods for the price.
Bass Pro also has a really
nice line of rods branded
with the Bass Pro name that run on sale for $19.99 every few weeks.
These
are called the "Graphite Series".
I steer clear of the huge
"Catfish" rods
that are on the market. These are big rods that are in my opinion just
going
overboard unless you are fishing the tailraces of dams from the bank.
The best line on the market
is Spiderwire Catfish
Fusion in 30 Lb test. This fusion line is the same diameter as 10 lb
mono,
but is super strong. I have been using this line well over a year now
and
have nothing but good things to say about it. It also comes in 80 Lb
test
if you wish for a heavier line. The 30 Lb has always done well for me.
