I'm looking to pick up a new conventional outfit and am having a hard time deciding what to get. I'll be using this set-up for plugging up to 2.5 ozs (and as light as I can get with it too) with a 9-10' rod from the SoCo Rhody surf. I use abu baitcasters for smallmouth and have the technique down and love it for freshwater...I'd like to do the same from the surf.

The problem is I am completely dumbfounded by the versions of the Abu 6500s. At first I thought the Abu Record RCN-50 or 60 was a good choice, then hear about the Rockets, but then see the 6500 Sports Mag, then hear great things about the 6500 Mag Elite, oh and who doesn't like the Blue Yonder. After reading the forums, I also get the impression that the Penn 525 is a better reel by a lot of folks, but the 525 doesn't look as comfortable as the Abu's.

I don't need something that is going to cast to the Block, I just want something that: (A) is a solid, enjoyable, and comfortable fishing platform; (B) can take use/abuse with some TLC mixed in; and (C) something that I won't get tired of or need to upgrade in the near future. I like the idea of the mags, but have heard that they don't really make that much of a difference.

I was leaning towards the 6500 Sports Mag, but now I just don't know and I don't want to make a decision that I'm going to regret. Anyone have any suggestions or eliminations from that group? Should I rethink the choices? Based on my scenario, what would you recommend?

Thanks.
Parker650

I own the Abu Garcia 60HC. Its an all around great reel. Havent casted too much light tackle with it though. I use my spinning gear for that. What is this Rocket you mentioned?

If you are buying the reel for plugging, I would suggest the Abu 6500. The 525 mag is so fast out of the box it will frustrate the hell out of you for plugging. :wall: It takes a lot of time and effort to controll that reel if you are not a conventional guy. It is not level wind and you must lay the line down evenly and not have any loose spots. If you do not do so it will blow up on you. I use my 525 for tin and jigging the ditch.:uhuh:

The Abu line is excellent. I have a bunch of Abus and find that the 6500 series is a good balance with a 9 foot stick. Take your choice on which one to buy. The series is excellent and has a lot of choices. The record (I think) has a larger capacity than the rest of the series. If I can find one, I will buy the mag elite. An excellent choice. Another is the Trophy series. The reels coming through are all asian and it would be wise to talk to Mike at M&D Bait . He not only will guide you , but will make any modifications necessary for you.

Good luck!!:buds:

Thanks for the info...I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with the 6500 mag elite. Any immediate upgrades that would be worth it right off the bat?

Also, I'm looking for a Batson/Allstar 1088 to pair with it...any ideas of where I might find one???

The 1088 Allstar is not all that lite taclke, more of a medium conventional rod with a fast action and taper. it likes 3oz tins and surface lures.

I use spinning gear except for one fast action 10'6" lami that I use for distance with heavy plugs in the surf. Had a 6500 mag but the thing sounded like it was gonna explode if you really let fly with a heavier plug. Couldn't find a non-level wind in the 7000 series so went with the 525 and it's great.

haave been useing a 6600d6 with a 9fter. that bob at wickford made up for me. handles eels and larger plugs with no problem at all. just keep it clean and oiled and your good to go.

M&D tackle can make the 1088 up for you if he is wrapping rods at this time..If he can do it for you, it will be a dynamite rod. I am usuing the exact setup - 6500 and the 1088. It makes an awsome combination. I can easily get down to light rubber and still be able to throw heavy stuff. I have found that the sweet spot is around 2 to 2 1/2 ounces.

Good choice.............:drool:

Thanks guys...I'm just trying to make the right decision and something that I will be completely happy with. Just had a baby boy 2 weeks ago and will most likely only get this one shot at dropping some loot on a set-up, for a while at least.

6500 is a great reel!
do it