i have a been boat fishing for a couple of years for stripers. I want to try some surf casting. What is a better set up baitcaster (penn 965) or spinning reel (penn 7500) I have both and would like to use them in the surf. What about a rod. how long and who makes a good one cheap. i have like the star brand rods but dont know if they make a surf caster.. any and all help would be great..Where would expect to catch MORE bass off the shore or off the boat? What about those habs plugs where can i buy them Habs told me to call him but i forgot and dont seem it right to call the guy at home. :)

phew, don't know where to start.

honestly, you'd want BOTH spinner and convench to fish different conditions.

For throwing plugs up to 3 oz, use the spinner. I'd say a 10 foot fast action stick made by Batson. I would prefer the 704Z over the 7500. Spool if up with 20 lb. Berkley Fireline and you're good to go.

If you're gonna throw anything heavier and/or soak some bait, or drift eels then the convench is the way to go. You can go longer - say, 11 3/4 - 12 feet on a surf stick. My choice would be an Allstar Breakaway (purely from a $/feature ratio) or one of the many Lamiglas options that are out there. Might as well step up to the 975 over the 965. I prefer 20 lb. mono (Berkley Trilene) or Sufix Tritanium 20 lb. mono with a 40-50 lb. shock leader.

If you have to make a choice due to $$$, go for the spinning outfit first.

-WW