Musky Reels

[bigG]

Wish I knew more. You decide yet?

[imnofish]

I'm going to get a Daiwa Lexa 400HL (left hand crank) and pair it with an 8'6" Medium-Heavy power, Fast action Shimano Convergence Muskie Casting Rod.  The rod has a telescopic handle, so it will still fit in my boat's 7' rod locker.  The cost is $370, plus taxes and shipping.  Using Cabela's points will knock it down to about $185, though.  I found a video and article on the type of fishing I want to do with it and the type of equipment needed, so that helped me narrow it down.  I could have gone with a more expensive rod, but this one will work fine and it fits my budget.  Now I can't wait for open water!   

[Handles II]

Too funny,
I was just watching a muskie show this morning and they were featuring that rod. I thought "I need to mention this to Fish".  Sounds like a great idea and set up.
Enjoy it man, and get some hook-ups!

[bigG]

8'6"! Better be telescoping. Could cover a good chunk of the Chipp flowage with that lightning rod.

Though I often stick with Shimano reels, the one Daiwa I own has been great. It's an ultra light from the mid 80's, though, so I'm a little behind the times.

[imnofish]

I have a couple of low-profile Spidercast casting reels that I just love to use.  One of the early reels designed to be used with super braids.  They quit making these reels a long time ago.  They are fine for bass and pike.  I have even caught a few muskies with them.  They have been used so much that they are all scarred up, but I've never had to repair either of them. 

[bigG]

Most of my "go-to" reels are Shimanos from the 80s and 90s.

[imnofish]

Just ordered the new rod and reel from Cabela's.  Using points cut the cost in half, plus they had a 2-day special that eliminated shipping costs, which saved an additional (nearly) $40.  Now, I need to find a good source for 80 lb. test Suffix 832 braid.  Really starting to get fired up for open water! 

[imnofish]

My rod and reel arrived yesterday!  Man, this combo is sweet!  Never had a telescoping casting rod before; it's neat how part of the rod slides down inside the handle.  With the big thaw coming this week, my casting arm is getting twitchy.   

[bigG]

Give 'er!