Just a quick question...I wanted another reel.. was going to buy a squidder on ebay as i dont do conventional all that much.. Found a new 7001 big game for the same price as a new squidder... figured that used squidders are hitting $50 now + shipping figured what the heck...

My question is do i need anything other then line/terminal/rod and surf for this reel? i hear things about bearings and ceramics..
I plan on using this as a bait thrower... on a 11 or 12 foot rod..
thanks

I love conventionals, I love casting them and fighting fish on them, and Tuning them. They do take practice. It took me a full season of using nothing but conventional reels to feel really confident with them. I'd start with a big spool of mono, not braid. Mono I feel is easier to learn on, and its all I use when throwing chunks.
go to a field, or an empty beach and start casting. Its all in the arms, legs, and shoulders--not the wrists.
Learn the Off-The-Beach-Cast in Ron Arra's book.

I learned on the squidder. But now never use it. Abu's are pretty much all I use. And the Penn 525Mag.

I'm sure there're many caster's better than me on this site. And we'd all be willing to help.

It ain't all about distance; it's all about being consistent.

The lure speed through the air should match the spool speed.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Leptar
Another thing............
Check out The Ultimate Guide to Surf Casting by Ron Arra. And if you can find it, Long Distance Casting by John Holden.

Also look at Tips and tricks at Hatteras Outfitters website. I don't know how to cut-and-paste, but the site can be found a few threads below this one, 7000CT--if this makes any sense at all.

Two great casting reels are 6500CS Mag-Elite and the 6500C3 CT Elite. One has a level wind one doesn't. These smaller reel are easier to handle than the bigger ones, great to learn on. 7000 class reels are good too.

The reel that you buy should be good to go. Forget about ceramic bearings for now. I'd go with the abu over the penn.