I got a buddy fixing to buy a boat. His wife gave me a call and was wanting to buy him a rod and reel for Christmas. I am primarily a surf fisher, so I told her to give me a little time to do some digging. She told me they would be doing mostly inshore fishing. Can some of y’all suggest a good middle of the road set up that won’t break the bank. Something of good quality that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Say up to 200.00 for a combined cost for a new set up. Please for some help:smiley:
Pete
I seldom ever advise on rods/reels because every person usually have their own preferences… Questions; Does he have existing rod and reels?? is this his first boat that needs to be outfitted with some “bells and whistles” or even the required safety equip needed to put it on the water…I find I’m always spending more on boating needs than fishing needs , a good onboard charging system set up to # of batteries , a back up camera for towing vehicle just to name a few…
Either can usually be had for less than 150.00 bucks !!!
George McDonald ; MAD Charleston
[http://www.militaryappreciationday.org
When you see “Old Glory” waving in the breeze, know that it is the dying breaths of our fallen hero’s that makes it wave.
author unknown
Gail wins has given some great ideas, add a Sea Tow membership to the list! Gives great piece of mind, that’s my wifes gift to me each year for my birthday. She must want me to make it back.
Thank you for your advice George and Boatpoor. I do believe he is new to fishing this area and will stress to him safety first as he tries to learn more about fishing inshore in S.C. He is an avid hunter from Colorado that just retired to this area and wants to get into fishing. I will send his wife to speak with Mike Jr. at Haddrels and they can steer him in the right direction for a fishing set up.
My personal preference for inshore fishing is a 2500 or 3000 reel & a 7 ft medium action rod. I like this set-up because it’s good for the usual inshore suspects & it can handle a over-slot sized fish if needed. For someone new to the sport, a good but affordable combo like the Penn Battle or Fierce is a good starter.
Ugly Stik Inshore Select is a really nice entry level inshore rod. I recommend the 7’ 6” medium or med-heavy
No matter how many variables I have control over, I never expect a bite. I only hope.
quote:
Originally posted by KabsCatchMy personal preference for inshore fishing is a 2500 or 3000 reel & a 7 ft medium action rod. I like this set-up because it’s good for the usual inshore suspects & it can handle a over-slot sized fish if needed. For someone new to the sport, a good but affordable combo like the Penn Battle or Fierce is a good starter.
Wal-Mart has a good deal on Penn Battle II combos right now. Most of the reels are on sale with a comparable rod. You can’t order any reel with any rod, so you’ll have to sort through the options to find one that works. Free shipping to your door, also. I ordered my son-in-law a new combo for Christmas.
-The size of a fish is directly proportional to the time between when it’s lost and the story is told. - Me
-What’s the best eating fish, you ask? I’ve found that for a lot people, its the ones that they happen to be able to catch, clean, and cook. - My Dad (1/13/37 - 9/27/16 I love you Pops)
-Until you have loved a dog, part of your soul remains unawakened. Anatole France (paraphrased)
-RIP my “Puppy Dog” 10/15/2004 - 1/14/2013. I’ll never forget him. What a special friend he was.
-Team Gonna Fish
Totally agree with all this advice. With the 200.00 allowance you could come close to getting two battle set ups or a Fierce and a battle. Thing to keep in mind is the drag systems on these for larger reds.
I might look at a 3000 Fierce on a medium and a 4000 Battle II on a Med Heavy to give your buddy some diversity on set ups.
You’re a good man for helping out. I am sure your buddy will appreciate it.
I second the Penn stuff in the 4000 size range, but BUT keep them clean. They do NOT handle dunking or even spraying with sea water. Good rinse after every trip and oil/grease often.
No matter how many variables I have control over, I never expect a bite. I only hope.
Thank you for your advice. I figured i would come to the folks that do this for a better result for Walt and Peg. They are good people and I wanted to make sure they got what they needed the first time. Appreciate it folks. I hope Walt enjoys fishing in the Low country.
He’s already ahead of the game Pete , he’s got friends he never met giving solid advice…I’m sure some of the boat fishermen will chime in with tips and general info on the boat side of things…
George McDonald ; MAD Charleston
[http://www.militaryappreciationday.org
When you see “Old Glory” waving in the breeze, know that it is the dying breaths of our fallen hero’s that makes it wave.
author unknown
There are 2 shimano nasc 2000 or 3000 reels on decent star and ugly stick combos at the money man on folly for reasonable asking price. They seem to be in decent shape and would be good starter boat combos. Just FYI
I have a couple of Shimano Terramar medlight rods in 6.5’ and 7’, both paired with a shimano Symetre 3000 reels with 14lb braid and they work great for inshore. Setup without the braid is about $220.
Matt
20’ Sea Hunt w/F150