Hi, I’ve been reading a ton of threads on here, and have come up with a couple of questions. I am new to saltwater fishing, and have a boat I put in near Yeaman’s Hall on the Cooper between the main Cooper and the Goose Creek Reservoir. It’s a 17 foot Key West.
I assume I will be mostly doing inshore fishing, and have narrowed it down to a 7 foot with anywhere from a 2500 to 5000 reel. I’ve seen a lot of people recommending the 3000 size, so that is what I was leaning towards, but am open to anything.
I was also wondering about line. It seems most people say 20lb braided is good for a variety. And most people use a leader? I probably wouldn’t do much trolling and would more be sitting using a Carolina Rig or Popping Cork based on what I have read here (live bait).
Does all of this sound about right? I am pretty much trying to catch whatever bites, not really specifically looking for anything.
I plan on trying to go to a Haddrell’s inshore class for topwater lures just to get more information that is coming up in April. I have also thought about getting an inshore charter to also help me learn more.
Inshore Charters are a great place to cut a learning curve in half.
We look forward to seeing you at the Topwater Class, we will also be holding a Live Baiting Seminar at the West Ashley Haddrell’s on the 25th.
I fish regularly with a 2500 size reel paired with a 6-12 rod. That will enable you to throw popping corks, carolina rigs, and artificals with the right braid.
If you have any questions give me a shout at the shop.
I personally always go with a 4000. All my rods are 7ft with 4000 stradics, but just like anything else it all depends what you’re looking to do. I usually fish for over slot reds. Not bull reds, but usually good size reds. I also fish for trout, sheepshead, black drum. For something like slot reds or trout I wish I had a 2500-3000 so I could have a better fight. Don’t know much about your area but I wish you the best of luck!