Advice on new flats spinning reel?

[bassboy888]

Gday raiders Im currently looking at a new set up for flats fishing. I have my eye on a rod already (samaki zing 4-8lb) but im looking at a reel to suit. I have 2 reels that i like the looks of and they seem fairly similar in specs but i was just wanting some raider feed back from the two if they have any.

The reels are

The new Abu orra SX20 Abu

or the Quantum Catalyst PTs 20 quantum

I was also wondering the difference in drag between the two. The Orra SX has a sealed carbon matrix drag system, where as the Quantum has stacked ceramic drag system. I just cant remember which one was the better type of drag?

cheers in advance

Edited September 19, 2011 by bassboy888

[pmak]

bassboy888,

Before we start looking at the reel, what sort of fishing are you going to be doing? Popping, soft plastics, shallow hardbodies? I'd probably go with a longish rod (7 to 7 and a half foot) to get maximum casting distance though you can also get better casting distance by getting a slick and thin braid.

I personally prefer a shorter rod say between 6 and a half to 7 feet for popping work as I can drop the rod close to the water line in front of me rather than to the side to get the desired action (if it makes any sense). If you're popping, I'd go with a good gelspun line like Stren microfuse that has a bit of stiffness to avoid line wrapping around the top guide with the flicking motion that comes with popping or working a surface walker.

Your reel must be able to line lay well if you're going to be using braid. I don't have any experience with the two reels you're looking at but can suggest that you try them on the rod that you're getting to see which feels better and is well balanced. I would look for a reel that is light and smooth with a smooth drag. I think the Quantum reel may be a tad heavy. There's the Shimano Stradic Ci4 to consider or the Daiwa Tierra or Sol as well. There are a few new Daiwa reels coming soon that look interesting too.

I realise I've not answered your question! Have fun looking and researching anyway ...

[bassboy888]

pmack

Its for casting small hardbodies and surface lures.

The samaki is 6"10' so i am pretty sure thats long enough for an inbetween surface and hardbodied lure work.

and I was looking at 6lb-8lb braid in spiderwire stealth (really thin) or suffix performance braid (nice and soft).

[pmak]

bassboy888,

If you're chucking ultralight lures, a 1-3kg rod may be better suited.

I have no experience with those braided lines to give you an opinion but would suggest the lightest line you can get in a gelspun (2-3lb) or 6-8lb in a PE braid (TD Sensor, Linesystem or Sunline).

pmak