big plug rod

[numbskull]

Originally Posted by stcroixman

which reel are you using on your 1205? I am using an abu 6500 wondering if it is too small.

I used to use a Newell 229 but now use a Calcutta 400TE and think it is a perfect size for what I do. The TE is a much more powerful reel than a 400 or 6500 and better matches the 1205's power....without the weight of a 700 or 7000. It is easier to cast than the Newell and the levelwind is a nice luxury when plugging. The 400TE does have some downsides. It is expensive, a biitch to clean when you dunk it, and after 2-3 years of hard use mine is starting to get "rattley", which might just be a bearing or levelwind wear. I have never owned a 525 Penn, but could see that that might be a good option as well. The shimano Tekotas might also be worth investigating.

[Saltheart]

I use an Abu 7000 on my ara 1205. You can use a 6500 but you need to go down to like 35 pound braid which is OK for the beaches but not in heavy current IMO.

I had a Loomis 108-30 that was a good big plug rod. Another good one that casts great is the Allstar 1418. Its a little long for some people but it casts a mile.

I have a century Tip Tornado light that will cast 4 OZ a mile too. I use a ABU BG 7000 Cl on that one too.

My loomis 1266 will handle 4 OZ and on that I use a Calcutta 400 with 35 lb Cortland Spectron braid. i think there are better braids available now since the Spectron went down hill some and the others available improved some.

I think its nice to have distance capability this time of year. very frustrating to see fish breaking just out of casting range.