'Lo all...

[kycreek]

I like the Phlueger presidents.

[CrappiePappy]

first thing I'd consider, is WHICH BnM poles you have : model & length ?

then I'd consider HOW you intend to use them, most often : tightline with minnows - trolling - casting - jigging - etc. ?

then I'd consider what size reel would best match up with & balance your rods : (reel size/weight/line size you intend to use): 500 series - 1000 series - 2000 series ?

then there's the financial aspect : premium $$ models/brands & longevity - mid range $$ & good usability - lower range $$ & basic functionality ?

Finding a reel that balances your rod, is comfortable to handle, and allows you to use it for the methods intended, is not a "one size fits all" kind of choice Not that I'm dissing any of the aforementioned reels, but rather I'm just trying to get enough pertinent information, so as to help you match up the reel/rod ... to make a user friendly outfit.

case in point : myself :D ... I have about 12 outfits that I use for various methods ... and none of them are exactly alike :p --- but, they're all balanced (rod weight/length vs reel size/weight) and comfortable to use for the methods I use them for.

... cp

[STUMP HUNTER]

Welcome to the board

[Bob # 1]

Welcome from Indiana

PS
The coffee pot is on

[Fatman]

Welcome from Vermont!!!!!!!! Spinning reel is the only way to go and Shimano is the name. Check out several models and price ranges to suit any budget.

Have some of their OLD top of the line TX-110Q, TX-120Q models from back in the 80's that work as good as the day I bought them. Have new Side Stab 2000R's, and have a new Symetry 2000R with double handle that I love.

When you go to buy the reel's take the pole's with you and make sure the reel fits without any rattles or wiggles. Check to see how it balance's out on the pole with the reel attached.

Then decide which price range you want to spend.

Enjoy

Fatman

[feelay]

Welcome from northwest Mississippi. If verticle jigging, I prefer a lightweight plastic reel just for holding line. Spinning, it's hard to beat pfleuger reels.

[FisherMike]

Welcome from the thumb state.

[cook]

Welcome aboard-I love ex-bassers

[mopar4x4]

if you have a gander mtn near you try the guide series reels they are made by phleuger but cost a little less I also like the WM pro series

[DeadHead]

Thank you all for the welcomes and information you sent my way. This is a GREAT site with alot of help of which I'll be putting to good use... One technique I need to really improve on is anchoring for crappies. I have 2 25# Richters with chain and 100' of rope and I still couldn't hold the boat where I wanted while slip bobbering last week. The boat is a '99 Lund 1800 ProV and I realize that the high freeboard is hurting me but there has to be a way of holding the boat on a spot. Very frustrating...and lots of room for improvement. Thanks again you guys for all of the help. Ken :rolleyes: