Conference wahoo::fishing

    Dear moderator if you would like to move note 984.0 to another note
    then go ahead. I meant to add this to note 521.37 but I did a WRITE
    instead of a reply.

    I don't really know much about baitcasting equipment, but I do know
    that another consideration for a rod would be Shimano. I have a
    6ft. 1 piece "fightin' rod", and I love it! I got it for about
    $30-$40, and I have no complaints. (it's a med/heavy). Bill Dance
    and other T.V. BASS fisherman have used Shimano equipment, and from
    what I've seen, Shimano has a pretty wide selection to choose from.
    
    I'm not sure about stores in the So. MA. area, but if you're ever
    feeling adventurous and want to take a drive to Merrimack, NH
    there's a place called Zyla's (CASH ONLY,rte. 3 north, exit 11)
    that is LOADED with fishing paraphenalia. You'll probably leave
    there having bought a lot more than a rod & reel.

    
    Leadcore
    

>>Can you get all these rods as a solid rod or do they all come apart in the
>>middle?

Yes, most quality rods are available in one piece design.  Your longer
(7'+) pitchin' and flippin' sticks are also available as one piece but have
a retractable section right above the handle that allows the rod to be 
shortened for storage.

>>I'ld like to get some info on the length of rod is right for worm'en. I'm
>>leaning towards a 5'0 or 5'6". Most of my fishing is from shore or a canoe
>>and I like working right in the heavy weeds.

Many folks are going with longer rods for worming nowadays.  Personally I'm 
using a 5'9" heavy action rod at present, but I'd like to pick up a 6'6" rod 
as well for wormin.

>>Also what does Med/heavy action mean when I see this on a rod? 

Rods range from ultra-light to heavy action.  Med/Heav is pretty much the
standard for bassin - but one manufacturers med/heavy will often be quite
different from anothers. 

>>And how do you
>>test sensitivity? I've seen people testing rods by tapping them on the floor
>>and of course I do the same thing just to make it look like I know what I'm
>>doing. 
    
What you do is grab the sucker and just whip it around all over the place.
Just kidding... Jerry McInnis doesn't like when people do that 8^)  
Put a reel that is like the one you'll be using on the rod and just feel it,
McInnis says you should see if it balances...  
    
I'm one of those people who tap the rod tip on something, to get some idea
if how sensitive the rod is.  To test the backbone I'll hold the rod by
the handle and apply direct pressure to different spots of the rod, to see 
how much it gives.
 
For worming I like a sensitive rod with alot of backbone (won't bend much
through the mid section).

>>Any advice for a beginner baitcaster would be appreciated. I have read thru
>>all the Tackle notes and other pertainent notes on Rods and reels.

Get a reel with a magnetic control and use it, it takes some of the pain out 
of learning to cast a baitcaster.

Good luck, Don Mac

    
Just got a new canoe. Can't help you on baitcasting but would be 
    interested in where in the Worcester area you use your boat for
    
    bassin. Have you tried Chauncey Lake in Westboro or Rocky Pond
    in Boylston?    
    
    Ron

    Thanks for the help guys...sounds like I have a bit of practicing
    to do once I make up my mind. I'll be out this week checking some
    more prices and am presently waiting for BP's sale catalog which
    should be here soon.
    
    Re:4 I haven't tried those 2 spots but I have canoed in A-1 in Westboro
    and other lakes/ponds farther south. Lake Nipmuc in Mendon, and
    Hopedale pond. I plan on getting out to WHitehall in Hopkington
    this year. The nice thing about a canoe is you can put in almost
    anywhere. Just need to find a place to park the car and you're set.
    
    I also plan on using it on West River in Upton,Northbridge and
    Uxbridge.Decent trout fishing there if the water stays high enough.
    
    Thanks again and I'll let you know what I ended up w/
    
    /Jay Sweeney

    Hi Jay,
    	When we talked yesterday we really did not talk too much about
    Shimano or diawa.  The Fightin stick is nice and less expensive.
    It will weight more than the berkly's we talked about.  I don't
    know what they do at Shimano if you break one.  They also don't have
    a solid blank.  The reel seat where the rod flares out is actually
    a glued on piece.  The blank does no go through the entire handle
    so it is not as sensitive.  They also break at the glue join sometimes.
    
    	As for diawa, their team diawa series is very nice.  They made
    some changes this year and they look good.  (almost liek allstar
    rods).
    
    Good luck
    bassin bob

    Anybody checked out those new Rhino rods from Zebco? I gave a quick
    look at one at the fishing show, and it certainly seemed to be strong
    and have a lot of backbone. Probably not terribly sensitive at $25-30,
    and there's no mention of what it's made of (any graphite?), but
    I'll bet it would make a pretty decent worminG rod. I imagine you'd
    have to put it in a chipper to break it, too. Looks like it's meant
    to compete with that Berkley "muscle" rod ("Lightnin" or something?),
    you know, the one they promote with the musclehead guy bending the
    rod in a circle as he boats a bass... check those out - about as
    sensitive as a two-by-four.
    
    Ed

    
    I haven't checked out the Rhino's yet but I took a little of Jerry's
    advice the other night and grabbed a handful of rods and pushed
    the tip into the floor to see where they would flex.  I did find
    an Ugly Stk Lite that flexed to the left side .... they must have
    had the blank turned 90 degrees when they built it !!  Funny thing
    about the others was they all flexed at the same spot ... Berkely's,
    Daiwa's, Shimano's, etc.  Maybe I was doing something wrong, but
    I concluded that there wasn't a lot of difference between them (all
    were 6 footers marked med/heavy).
    
    My preference in wormin' rods is 6 foot, med/heavy one piece
    construction.   I think there are any number of rods in the store
    that would make you happy.
    
    I did panic a little after the show and went home to "heft" all
    my rods/reels and every one of them balanced nicely ... I guess
    you develop a sixth sense after fishing for a few years (six cents
    left after all the $ spent on equipment is more like it).  I will
    confess that the first couple years I was one of Jerry's "rod
    whippers".
    
    I think it was Don who mentioned adding a reel to the rod and looking
    for balance.  I was taught that sensitivity could be tested by putting
    the tip against a friends throat and having him talk ... if you
    feel it, the rod is sensitive.  Ranger Ron says that's only true
    if your friend is Marcel Marceau.  You might try tying on some line
    and a light weight (small leadhead or splitshot) and pulling across
    the floor to test what you feel.  I haven't tried it but it might
    help distinguish between rods.
    
    -SSS-
    

May want to check out the rods in Cabela's spring catalog. They have
    their brand graphite rods(MagStik??)on sale. The rod my wife got
    me for christmas was about $65 and in the spring book there somewhere
    around $40. I have practiced with it in the yard this winter and
    so far I am real pleased with it. Of course it would have been even
    better at around $40.
                                                                     
    Good luck in making a selection. My advice is find a rod and reel
    and try it. You can go crazy picking a rod and reel. Just do it,
    and you will find out over time what's right for you. I have four
    baitcasters and three spining outfits and some I like and others
    I will replace over time. It's never ending if you get hooked.
    
    Ed

    Wen chew go to de store, jes pick op each rod by de tip. If it breaks
    or de salesparson git all opset, den don buy it. If chew cant pick
    it op off de floor wit de tip, den it gonna break wen chew use it.
    Dis goes for all sizes ob rods. Somtime de salesparson jomp op an
    say "Sacre fils de chein!!" an grab it rite out chew han.
    
    Reels are too complucated for an ole cajun lak me, but Mitchel an
    ABU mak gud stuff.
    
    Bonne Chance,
    
    Coonass

FWIW...

I stopped by K-Mart the other night and they had a special of an Abu 5500 
bait casting reel plus a spinning reel all in one box for $33.88.  I don't 
know what model the spinning reel is, but the Abu 5500 alone sells for about 
$45 at BassPro.  Seems like a pretty good deal!

-HSJ-

     If you're gonna pitch plugs other than the monster "Dredge" type
    baits, I recommend a 5'6" graphite rod rated for 1/4-1/2 oz. lures.
    That'll get you by with spinnerbaits and normal size (1/4-3/8 oz.)
    lures you'd use in this area. If you do a lot of wormin' or jig
    n' pig fishin' try a 6' rod rated 3/8 to 5/8, although many people
    prefer a rod that'll handle 1/2 oz to 1 oz.
     Whatever you do, SPEND SOME DOUGH ON THE REEL!! Cheap baitcasters
    make a somewhat difficult task harder. Like DonMac said, make sure
    they are "magnetic brake" types, and I recommend athe Abu Garcia
    521, because it is well made and comes with a free extra spool which
    is easily changed.
     To be really honest, your best setup would probably be a 5'6" -
    6' spinning rod (1 piece) rated 1/4 to 1/2 as a first choice, with
    the baitcaster second. That way you could handle worms, grubs, jigs,
    spinnerbaits and normal crankbaits, even into the wind. Also, you
    could cast Rapalas, which work well but are an abortion on baitcasters.
     Just my opinion, and I hope it helps.
    
    Tight lines,
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

    I took your advice Bob and went to Dick's Bait shop in Worcester.
    The Bionix is a real nice rod and felt great. Ron showed my how
    to test for sensitivity by putting the tip of the pole against his
    throat and talking. He also showed me a Team Diawa. didn't feel
    quite as nice and was the same price. I think I'm going to go w/
    the Bionix x16 (med/heavy) 5'6" rod. So far the cheapest price is
    $64.95 even at K-Mart. Their sale ended 11-Feb. K-Mart is running
    another sale next week but the Bionix isn't on sale. Anybody know
    where I can get this Berkley Bionix any cheaper? I'm waiting on
    a Bass Pro catalog are they usually the least expensive.
    
    As for a reel Dick showed me a couple of Diawa and Shimano reels.
    Don't remember the model #'s but the price was in the $50.00 range.
    I want to look at the ABU 521. Does anyone know if it comes in a
    left hand crank? I'ld prefer this as I can definitely cast w/ more
    accuracy w/ my right hand. Also I'm used to this from fishing w/
    my spinning gear. I've seen the ABU 521 for $64.95 someplace if
    I can only remember where? Does anyone have prices on this reel?
    /Jay

     You can get a left hand Abu Garcia 521 with an extra spool for
    $63.90 from BassPro. You might want to look at some of the combo's
    they sell - there are some real bargains there and you can judge
    the rod action from your experience vs their description. Let's
    face it, you're looking for a good solid first outfit, but unless
    you want to consider an "All Star" or G. Loomis rod, you don't have
    to spend big bucks on the rod. This is not brain surgery; in fact,
    with some of the low stretch lines around now, your feel will probably
    be more than adequate anyway. I've owned a LOT of rods and built
    a lot, and to me the BassPro rods are real good products. I don't
    think you have to spend $64.95 to get a rod that'll do the job,
    but whatever you get - best of luck!
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

    
    
           JAY
    
             the fair is holding a big sale today and saturday only.
           the bait caster your looking for is listed on sale $64.99
             
                thay say with the perchase of this reel you'll also
            recieve a rod "free" ??? the rod quality could be
    questionable...
    
                                                          kiver

     I got one of those Abu Garcia rod 'n reel combos and love (!) the
    rod, although some of the models may be a tad soft for wormin'.
    If you can get a 521 with an extra spool (make sure you ask to see
    if it comes with it, as it usually does) and get a rod too for $64.99,
    "Jump Awn it, Son" (as Tony Rice Says To Norman Blake while they're
    pickin' 'n  grinnin')!!
    
    _-The Skoal Bandit 

    Thanks for the info. I'm heading over to the Fair on Rte 20 right
    after work. 
    
    /Jay

    Jay:
    
    Whitehall is a good spot, especially when you get directly
    across from the ramp. Lots of pretty spots, coves, etc. 
    However, winds can be very tricky there for a canoe and, despite 
    supposed speed limitation, I have come close to be swamped by bass 
    boaters who are very inconsiderate of those of us who like to be 
    peaceful and slow. Another problem with Whitehall is the weeds.
    
    We canoists need a little interest group to help powerboaters
    understand our needs, etc. 
    
    Try Chauncey Lake. I've had good bass luck and there are pike
    in there. The west shore and coves are best. Power boats
    are only a problem on weekends and there are two nice beaches
    where you can pull in and take a swim. The water is murky but
    very clean. There is a boat ramp off Chauncey Steet [which runs
    off Lyman Steet] but you can also put in by the beach on
    Lyman Street. Shoreline is almost totally undeveloped; much
    owned by Fisheries and Wildlife. Skidoos and beer-drinking 
    powerboaters are a pain on some weekends, but Westboro and
    the state are trying to get some enforcement. 
    
    Rocky Pond is just west of the I 290 Church Street exit in Boylston.
    Drive west about a mile and take the first major right and work your way
    down the hill to the ramp. It's a very quiet lake, mainly
    wooded shoreline with a few cabins and one or two houses. 
    Beautiful spot. Decent large mouths and pickrel.
    
    Another nice spot is Hopkinton Reservoir. Very *large* bass and
    Rainbows in there, both around the dam and the Route 85 bridge.
    You can put in near the bridge. I've had excellent luck with
    shiners. You'll find other canoists there and many of them
    will point out good spots. There are also beaches and some
    nice little islands to picnic on.
                                      
    Lets keep our canoe eyes open, maybe get together some warm
    summer eve.
    
    Thanks for your tips.
    
    Ron
                                                  

    Thanks Ron. I'm always looking for new spots to fish. Does the state
    stock Hopkinton Res. w/ trout? As for fishing for Pike and Pickerel
    I've had more lines cut because of the teeth on these fish. I've
    caught them on live/dead shiners, rubber worms, and leadheads and
    grubs. Is there a leader you can tie on to your line that won't
    hamper the action of the worm or grub or way down the end of the
    line that the shiner is dragging around? I usually am fishing for
    Bass and manage to hook into a few pickerel everytime out. If I
    ever hook a good size Pike or Pickerel I don't want to lose 'em
    because he sawed thru the line.
    
    /Jay

    Jay:
    
    My understanding is that Hopkinton is stocked, though there is
    quite a holdover so I don't know if it's done every year.
    
    As for pike/pickerel leaders: I just don't know since I only
    fish for bass and trout. You might try making a short leader out
    of 20lb test. That would take quite a bite! Years ago I caught
    pickerel on metal leaders and spoons, but have never tried
    to work worms or grubs that way. 
    
    Ron 

    I read this note plus 590, 832, 1044 and 987 and think this is the
    right one to ask my question so here goes.  I decided to go baitcaster
    this year.  So far I own two Shimano spin setups one med and one med/heavy
    with rods 6' and 6'6" and a dawai ultralight closed face set up (I never
    use cause the heart can't take landing big bass on light tackle
    anymore). These have been really great for taking alot of Bass but I am
    really beginning to believe to get the big lunkers you gotta go heavy
    lures and plugs hence the baitcaster.
    
    I am hunting buffalo sized bass and alligator size Tiger Muskie this
    year and need a heavy rod setup to cast those big spinnerbaits, plugs
    and crankbaits (tiger muskie lures are 9" long and weigh close to 2
    oz).  I'd like some more talk about the beanies of the following setups
    either a Shimano Bantam Beastmaster 5 ball bearing model with matching
    Beastmaster magnum cast rod 5'6" vrs something like a Abu Garcia 521
    XLT with matching Conlon 900 heavy 5'6" rod or Daiwa PT Power Reel with
    matching TD561-4FB med/hvy 5'6" rod.  I chose the shorter rod because I
    am not so interested in long cast as heavy pull power to set the hooks
    in the jaws of big Pike and Muskies.  So can you give me your druthers?
    
    I am especially concerned about the backlash that Shimano's seem to be
    prone towards.  Some of the notes seem to speak to that.  I know my
    brother is constantly unwinding nests in his beastmaster so I am not
    sure if its him or the reel.  For me this is the last big buy for
    awhile and I want to get the most for the $150 or so I spend.
    
    The Bassassissn
                                         

    I wouldn't let the birds nest steer you away for Shimano, as someone
    else mentioned, its probably a pilot error, not a mechanical problem.
    
    With the reel adjusted properly and with some practice and some time,
    you'll get the hang of it.
    
    However, as I have stated a zillion times in here, I stick with reels
    with lifetime warrantees (I recently spent more than I cared to to have
    a Shimano baitcaster repaired).  I like ABU baitcasters myself.
    
    $150 is expensive, although I have that much into one outfit, I have
    found if I shop around I can do much better.  My latest addition 
    was one of the BPS specials, a 5'6" bionic blade with an ABU 6.3:1
    express baitcaster for $79...  I haven't used the rod yet but it feels
    nice.  It sounds like your looking for more of a power reel than a
    speed reel (I wanted it for buzzbaits) but I believe they had a power
    reel (4.x:1?) ABU package for the same price.
    
    donmac

    I talked with the Master Blaster himself Wayne Hunter and he strongly
    favors the long handled trigger casting rods verses the short handle
    bait casting rods with his setups.  He feels that the leverage and
    power the longer handled rods have is a big plus for setting hooks in
    the boney mouths of Pike and Muskie.  Plus the length allows for easier
    and longer casting and for flippin and soft presentation.
    
    I found this interesting because most people I have fished with or seen
    on the lakes generally have short baitcasting rods and reels.  What do
    you others think?
    
    Bassassin
             

    I have had a Shimano bait caster for 3 years now,  I dont think it back
    lashes any more than any other reel,  I agree, pilot is the biggest
    cause for backlash.  I do know that I will never buy a shimano again,
    but only because of this, I WANT A LIFETIME WARRANTY!!  So I am
    switching slowly ABU.  But I do really like the Shimano GTX spinning
    reel, I got 3.  Like Don Mac I to just bought a Bionic Blade from Bass
    Pro, Its my second.  They have last years spinning model for sale for
    $29, GOOD DEAL, the only difference in the 90's is the handle.
    I will wait for the show to decide what reel i want for it, then order
    it from BP cause the show is tooooo expensive for reels.  
    
    Les

     I like the flexibility of the 2 speed reel (plus the fact that
    Northern Bass mismarked the 5 ball bearing Shimano and sold it for
    the 3 ball bearing price...), but for a basic reel, the ABU 521
    is probably THE BEST! (Plus, you get an extra spool). The guarantee
    is tops!
    
     As far as 2 handed rods, they do give you more leverage, which
    is critical for big fish, and if you're throwin' BIG plugs or just
    casting as far as you can, two hand casting is easier; however,
    if you're making a lot of short, accurate casts, the one hand rods
    are lighter and less tiring. I've got a short handle on my jig 'n
    pig rod (3/8-3/4 oz.), and it's perfect. BTW, you don't need 5 ball
    bearings. Even the tourney guys (who get stuff free) use the 3 ball
    bearing models a lot. Unless you're fishin' for Tarpon, you'll never
    get into the extra functionality that 5 ball bearings might (?)
    add. Just my opinion, and I've been dippin' so long that you can
    divide my comments by 8...
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

I got a baitcaster (ABU 6' med/heavy rod, lite+ reel) setup for Xmas.  I spent
time at Zyla's handling both the pistol grip and the long handle style.  I 
agree with the other replies:  I can cast farther with the long handle and I'm 
convinced it has better hook-setting abilities.  The Abu Lite+ has a hook set
button which grabs the spool teeth disabling the drag.  Ought to be able to set
even heavy worm hooks in tough jaws with this setup.  I also found that my
natural casting method would throw the bait downward more with the pistol grip
than with the long handle.  The long handle rests against your arm which gives
more leverage on hook set and for hauling big fish out of cover. 

Tim

    I prefer the long handles myself, 4 out of my 6 baitcasters have long
    handles. I can get a much better hook-set planting that rod butt in my 
    gut.  In the summer when I'm wormin' and wearing just a tshirt or no 
    shirt I'll often have long scrapes on my stomach from the rod butt 
    scraping against my gut from setting a 3/0 tru turn into a big bass - 
    or stump or rock or whatever...8^) battle wounds...
    
    I have a 5'6 med action light weight rod with a pistol grip that I like 
    for small crankbaits that I'm casting alot and working fast.  My new
    buzzbait rod also has a pistol grip that I hope I'll like, since again
    I'll be doing alot of casting with fast retrieves.
    
    donmac - all this talk is getting me itchy...

    First, its good to be writing in the file again. I have peeked in here
    but have not had a chance to take my time and go through it.
    
    When reading about an outfit for muskey I recall an article in
    In-Fisherman sometime over the past year that discussed various
    rod/reel setups. From what I remember long rods were the ticket and
    wide spool reels. I could get the article and copy it if anyone is
    interesred. Many of the reasons for the sets-ups are mentioned in the
    replys by Don and the Bandit. I seem to recall the wide spools had
    something to do with trolling. I can see the need for a large spool so
    when reeling you gain more line. 
    
    I have been slowly switching to long handle rods for bassin. Last year
    I purchased a 7' deep cranking rod from Cabala's. I use it for worms
    and jigs mostly. I have used it for big spinnerbaits and large
    crankbaits too. I would not go bass'in without it. I fish in a lot of
    cover and it has exceeded my expectations. I put a Quantum Pro 2 on the
    rod. I have been very pleased with the setup. I have been very
    impressed with the "castability" of the setup for various types of
    med/heavy fishing.
    
    Last year I used a light action pistol grip and a crank'in stick, but I
    decided replace them with one rod. Too many rods in the boat. Couple of
    baitcasters and at least one spinnig rod. 
    
    I just purchased an All-Star TWS at NBS. I wanted a mediun action for
    small crank'in, topwaters, spinnerbaits and jigs/grubs in strucuture.
    The 6'6'' triggerstick has backbone, but sensitivity. It will throw
    a rapala and a Kalan on an 1/8 jig about 60ft without much effort. I
    was using a four year old Shimanio Pro reel with 10lb test. It's a
    light action reel, holds about 100yds of 10lb test. I think with one of
    the newer reels and 8lb test I could have thrown the lures further. But,
    the long handle helped add distance.
    
    I still like the pistol grips for tight spots, as was mentioned before.
    
    Think about the way you will fish. Long casts or short casts. At or 
    around structure. Will the rod be for both muskey and bass. Then decide
    what you will compromise. You are doing the right thing asking the people
    in this file for advice. I have learned so much from this group. Why I
    have them to thank for all the money I have put out in search of a fish
    I release.
    
    Good luck in your quest, this is really part of the fun.
    
     

List is on your next equipment order as:

Tubular Graphite Fiber (IM6/IMX) Tapered Tethered Mass Accelerator



:-)

Tim

    Well....
    
    After going to the fishing show and doing some real comparisions
    between the Abu line and the Shimano line, I decided to opt for the
    Abu. I ordered the Abu XLT Syncro 2 and a BPS Pro Series Pitching Stick
    6'6" heavy.  I opted for the Abu because it offered alot; quick change
    spool, 20% increase in casting distance, synchro drag and of course the
    lifetime warranty is very nice.  I have to admit the Shimano is alot
    more prettier and the outward appearence is one of quality and
    craftsmanship and it sure is nicer looking than the Abu but dollar for
    dollar the Abu was clearly the winner.  I also opted to go for the
    pitching stick verses the casting handle.  Your comments really helped
    and when I tried them out at the show I found the two hands will
    definitely be and advantage when cranking in my hawg this year.
    
    Once this hard water softens, I'll drop a note here telling you how its
    working out.
    
    the Bassassin
                                                 

      
        BTW Re. -1
    
         Bass Pro is getting out of Shimano??  
    
         I put question marks after that statement.  But the Shimano rep
    told me that BP does not list any of the 1990 shimano equipment this
    year.  All they are carring is left over rods and reels.  He did not
    explain why, but seemed real upset when I asked him WHY?  
         I am guessing here BUT....  I have noticed that for the last three
    years Shimano has completly changed there product line.  I would
    imagine a large distributor like BP would get a little pissed if they 
    constantly had to restock an entire line and sell all the left overs 
    at a lower price.  At least ABU carries there stuff for years, with 
    an ocasional new item every year, this does not seem to be the case
    with Shimano.  Dont get me wrong I own 3 Shimano reels and cant wait
    to see the bargins I can get on 1988 and 1989 reels, I know I got an 
    1988 GTX which Shimano upgraded in 1989 to 5BB and renaming the 1988
    GTX to the 1989 SBK for 10 bucks from BP.   WHAT A DEAL!!!!!  
    
    Les
         

	Since there has been a great deal of talk here about bait casting reels,
has anyone out there had any experience with Daiwa's Procaster Power Reels, 
mainly the PT33P (5.1:1, with 5 ball bearings). Right now I somewhat up in the 
air between the Abu Syncro, and this version of Daiwa.
	The PT33P appears to be one well built reel, but the cost if quite high,
would like it if anyone has one let me know what you think of the reel.


						Alan

    I have the 1990 Shimano Catalog and other than the new Areo line, I
    don't see a total revamp of their equipment.  In fact the reference
    guides show cross references to the bulk of the equipment carried by
    BPS.  I wonder why BPS would drop the Shimano Line thats a real
    suprise.

    I was up at Northern Bass Supply about two weeks ago they said they will 
    not carry Shimano this year either. Seems they are not cooperating with
    the large dealers.  They are distributing through other channels instead 
    of the catalog dealers. MAybe they are looking for more margin. 
    
    I mentioned earlier I bought an All-Star rod. I saw those Abu's on sale 
    at BPS and went for the 521 plus. Great price @49.95. I wanted a reel
    with a fast-cast thumbbar. I guess its a little thing but I like the fast
    cast with a two handed rod. I looked at the Dawia Sumari(SP). A nice
    reel but I went for the lifetime warranty and being able to change spools.
    
    
    Ed

    Northern Bass has a statement in thier catalog on why they are droping
    them. Zylas here in Merrimack is also dropping them. They we expecially
    upset with the return policy too. Hopefully Shimano will regret this
    policy and we will see them again in BPS, NPS and Zylas. I have 4 of 
    their reels.

    Two of my brothers bought the new Daiwa longcaster series spinning
    reels and 6'6" matching rods.  These setups look like the Shimano Aero 
    line.  They have the beveled guides that are angled forward to take
    some of the line slap out and the spools are tapered to allow quicker
    line feed.   
     
    We filled them up with 10Lb test yesterday and tried casting them out
    on the lawn.  Cast for cast these little babies out cast my other
    brothers Shimano Super Bantan Speedmaster Baitcaster on a Browning 7
    foot rod.  This if very intersting if you consider the fact that these
    are spinning reels on a shorter rod.  Most significant factor yet is
    that my brothers Shimano Baitcaster and Rod cost $150 while the Daiwa
    setups were $60 in the BPO.  
    
    The cast has a very distinct whizzing sound as the line shoots off 
    the rods.  Overall we estimated that these rods where shooting out 
    about 30 feet further than the baitcaster.
    
    Has anyone tried the new Shimano Aero rods yet?
    
    Too bad I already bought a new Shimano Spinning Rod and Reel as well as
    as a new Abu Baitcaster.  I wonder if the wife would notice another new
    set up?
    
    the Bassassin 
                                   

    I can't believe it.  I was just informed by BPO that they are
    discontinuing the Abu XLT line.   I then tried to order much of the
    Shimano Speedmaster line and was also told those have already been
    discontinued.  Does that mean that BPO is only going to carry Daiwa,
    Penn.  They also tried to sell me a Ryobi.  I can't believe the largest
    mail order fishing shop is dropping two of the most popular fishing
    reel lines.     Does anyone know if Cabellas still going to carry Abu
    and Shimano?
    
    
    
    

    Are you sure BPS didn't say that ABU was discontinuing the XLT?
    
    It's hard to imagine that BPS would drop ABU, they have a deal where
    they buy a great deal, of not all, of ABU's year end inventory to
    package with their BPS rods.
    
    donmac - who was not a big shimano fan anyway 8^)
    

    My impression has been that most people think Shimano reels are about as 
    good as they come. Do you think that Abu is just as good as (or better
    than) Shimano? (I hope so, since I just bought an Abu Ultracast, and it
    "feels" different than my "good 'ol" Shimano MQII - I know that doesn't
    mean anything until I really put it to use though)
    
    Ed
    

    Ed, your right, most folks love their Shimanos.  These days it seems
    that it's tough to go wrong.  All of the major manufacturers make
    quality equipment and stand behind them somewhat.  Personally, I only 
    have one Shimano, a baitcaster, that has had to be replaced once and
    repaired another time - but that does not appear to be the norm.  Most
    folks like their ABUs as well.  And ABU backs their baitcasters with a
    lifetime warranty.  donmac

I love my ABU baitcasters (XLT 512 and LITE+).  I also love my Shimano spinning
reel.  If I'm going to shell out money for equivalent products, I'll chose the
ABU baitcasters for their warranty.

New spinning reel under consideration are all Quantums.  They are better
supported than Shimano.


Tim

    Quantum recently dropped lifetime warrantees on many of their reels as
    well, I think some of the QSS spinning series still offer lifetime 
    warrantees, but many new series do not have the lifetime warrantees.
    
    Note many spinning reels out there with lifetime warrantees now. 
    
    donmac

    Donmac
    
    I don't think that Abu dropped the synchro XLT and 500 XLT line.  I had
    a long discussion with the Abu reps at the fishing show and they were
    saying how they thought it would be the hottest line this year.  In
    fact the 90 catalog has them in it.  Anyway my brother has the spring
    Cabellas catalog and the lines are in there so I'll try ordering them
    this week.  The only trouble is the Synchro in BPO went for 59.  In
    cabellas they are priced at 88 but they throw in a rod.  If the real reel
    price is close to 59 that means you get a pretty cheap rod for the
    extra 20 bucks?  Oh well I don't see much of a choice if I want an Abu
    the local fishing shops are pricing the reels alone of 79.
    
    As far as Shimano goes I love them.  I have three rods and reels and
    find the quality just sensational.  The reason for the switch to Abu is
    the lifetime warranty plus the changeable spool.  If I have to pay more
    than 60 for an Abu I'll go back to a Shimano Baitcaster.  One last
    reason for the switch has been the heavy endorsement from you and Wayne
    Hunter for the Abu line.  I figuire if you guys like so much, there
    must be something to them too.  I'd like to hear more on Quantum and
    Daiwa.  I got the distinct feeling from these notes neither are heavily
    used by the folks in this notes file.
    
    The Bassassin
    

	Two weeks ago I ordered a ABU Synchro from BPS for $59.00. I was 
surprised when I got a ABU Conlon IM6 Med Action rod with it for no extra
charge. It's not a get rod, but then again for free its not bad.


						Alan

    Alan
    
    Did you order that out of the Christmas Flyer?  I tried to order the
    XLT Synchro and was told it was discontinued.  I didn't try to order
    the combo rod and reel set though.  Maybe I'll try that today.
    
    Brian
    
    

    This is totally exasperating.  I just called BPO and tried to order the
    combo set from the Christmas Catolog.  The salesperson tried but told
    me it was discontiued and that the sales catolog was expired.  She did
    do a bunch of things and low and behold got me an Abu XLT Synchro II
    left hand for 59 in stock!!! and then with some more dancing got me the
    trigger stick I wanted too.  At the end of the dancing I told her I had
    tried on three occassions to order this equipment but was told each
    time the lines were discontinued and would she please check to be sure
    it is in stock.  She did and said that the others just didn't know how
    to do it.  I am lost, now I don't know if the Abu XLT line is really
    discountinued or what.  Anyway I guess the moral of this story is keep
    trying 
    
    Will let you know in seven days if I actually get my reel or not.
    
    the Bassassin

Brian,

	I ordered it out of BPS Spring Fever Catalog. When I ordered it I was
only looking to get the XLT 1 synchro, I did not order any combo setup, as I
have a rod I was going to use it on. From what I can tell either I ordered
my ABU XLT1 Synchro in time. It's hard to believe that BPS will no longer
carrier these units, as it appears to be a very popular reel.


							Alan

    I had the same problem with BP. They said things were discontinued.
    WHat they really meant was that the article was no longer on sale. In
    one case I think they were selling me an '89 Bionic Blade (which was
    discontinued, yes?) and sent me a '90. Had it happen twice. Both items
    WERE avail.. Maybe its 'stock' for the sale flyers. They are no longer
    stocking Shimano. Bet you can get some good sales on their remaining 89
    line. Hey, anyone want to take a trip out the the MAIN STORE? How great
    could that be??

    >must be something to them too.  I'd like to hear more on Quantum and
    >Daiwa.  I got the distinct feeling from these notes neither are heavily
    >used by the folks in this notes file.
    
    I Like Quantum alot.  When they offered lifetime warrantees on all
    their reels they were the only spinning reels I'd buy.  Now, since 
    Quantum has dropped the lifetime warranty on most of their reels, if I 
    were in the market for a med sized spinning reel, I'd buy a Diawa long 
    cast series (matched with an All-Star, a beautiful spinning setup).
    
    If I were in the market for another ultralight, I'd buy another Quantum 
    QSS2 - I love it and I know other folks who love their's as well.  
    
    I have a Quantum 1610 baitcaster that I really like, although it was on 
    the expensive side.  
    
    I also really like the Quantum QMD20 spinning reels, I had 3, I'm down
    to one...  (blush) Last year during the Granite State Open I "kicked" 
    one overboard by accident.  And then a few weeks later at a club tourny, 
    John Easter and I were doing about 60mph accross Winnipesaukee when one 
    of his deck lids (which I had not properly secured) flew open and sent 
    one of my rods with a QMD20 on it flying into about 100ft of water. 
    
    Most of my rods are Quantums.  I have Quantum Transmitter, a Quantum 
    Quartz Lite and a bunch of Quantum XLs.
    
    I also have a Diawa baitcaster that works fine and was a 'reel'
    bargain.  I don't recall the model number but I got it at Service
    Merchandise on sale for $20-something.  I matched it with a 5'6" med 
    action Diawa Samurai rod that I had picked up previously at S.M. for 
    seomthing like $15 - a real nice outfit for the money.  
                                
    donmac - who can offen be seen wearing a Quantum jacket...
    

    Well after all that hoopla I finally did get that Abu Synchro LH II and
    the trigger stick from BPO.  Don't ask me how or what the problems were
    in ordering, I'm just glad they came.  My brothers bringing up his
    shimano set up this weekend for a shootout.  I'll write up a
    comparision later.
    
    

    I'm glad to hear you guys got what you ordered from BPS. I don't know 
    if I mentioned it in an earlier note, I had ordered a Abu 521 from the
    spring catalog and received a rod with it. It was the same package that
    was in the Xmas book. I ordered it in early January with no problem. 
    I am going to put my 5500GR (remember that Habormaster) on the rod and 
    throw spinnerbaits.
    
    I have only one Quantum reel, a Pro2. Boy do I like it. I have it
    on a Cabala's 7' Hannon rod. I can cast, pitch and flip with it. I 
    would buy another in a minute. But it was expensive. Let you know in
    a few years if it was worth it.
    
    I was very impressed with the new Dawia Sumari reels. Both the 2B and 
    5B(bearing) models. The Team Dawia is a honey, but for $100+ it should
    be. I especially like the infinite anti-reverse. 
    
    If you are not familiar with some of these reels, I mean have not used
    them or are fairly new to fishing try a mid-priced reel. After you get
    to know the kind of fishing you will do then focus on a particular
    type. I started with a ABu 5500 because it was a standard. Then added
    a light Shimano, another 5500, then a Pro2 and this year a 521 XLT.
    I used the 5500 for worms and spinnerbaits and threw small and medium
    crankbaits on the Shimano. Then I went to jigs and heavy cover baits with
    Pro2 and now I want to fish topwaters with the 521. It never ends, but
    I find it evolves as you get to know the water you fish and the kind of
    lures you like to fish with. Believe it or not I like to fish Kalin
    grubs on a light graphite baitcaster because I believe I feel the lure
    more than if I use a spinning outfit. Hey, whatever makes your boat
    float. But find out what works for you then go for the tackle that best
    complements how you want to fish. 
    
    Ed  
    

    Comparision of ABU Sychro XLT II Left Hand vrs Shimano Super Bantam
    Speedmaster Left Hand.
    
    This comparision was performed last Sunday my brother and I were
    casting into the lawn using 3/8 dummy plugs.  Both Reels were loaded up
    with 12lb Berkley Trilene XT.  The Abu was on a 6'6" one piece BPO
    Pro Tourney Pitching Stick The Shimano was mounted on a 7' Browning gold
    medallion series single piece.  
    
    Cast for cast the Abu's claim of a 20 to 30% increase in distance 
    is accurate.  I was using an 8-9 setting on the magnetic (ABU) and
    my brothers Shimano was set on 4 yet I added about 10 feet to the cast. 
    Both reels have a similar drag set up the Shimano calls theirs fighting
    drag and Abu, Synchro drag.  To activate the Shimano you push the star 
    forward to get max hook set and through a series of preset stations
    can quickly feel the star back back to get up to 75% drag on the Abu you
    push the reel handle forwad for Hook set and back for 75% drag no other
    presets.  
    
    The Abu has a thumb bar all the way across the back of the reel which was
    nicer than the button on the Shimano because with the Abu the minute
    you hit the cast bar your thumb rests right on the reel.  With the
    Shimano you have to move the thumb over a smidge.  Both reels had
    flipping switches.  The Shimano has five ball bearings and I think the
    Abu has three.  Yet the way they mount the spools and the magnetic
    brakes you can see the Abu spins much easier than the Shimano which is
    why you get the increased distance.  The Shimano is definitely faster on
    the retrieve with a 6:1 vrs the Abu 4.7:1
    
    The Abu has a quick release spool and comes with an extra spool.  You
    can pop out the old spool and in seconds install a new one.  You can't do
    that with the Shimano at all.  The Abu also has a plate that lifts up
    over the line guide so you can thread the line out of the reel very
    simply.  The Shimano goes 10-14lb test the Abu from 12-20 lbs.
    
    Both reels are constructed out of light weight graphite the Abu has a
    flat grey matt finish while the Shimano is a very glitzy shiny black.
    The Abu handles are longer and so feel a little more comfortable than
    the Shimano.
    
    Overall both reels are exceptial in quality and craftsmanship.  The
    Shimano goes for $79.99 and the Abu for $59.99.  I was very much
    impressed and pleased with the Abu and am very happy I was finally able
    to get this reel. My personal opinion is that the Abu offers much
    more for the dollar;  20-30% increased casting distance, spare spool,
    quick change spool mechanism and a lifetime warranty.  I have to admit
    the Shimano looks a whole lot prettier but is that worth the extra $20?
    
    I just read this shootout to my brother he said to tell you he still
    thinks his Shimano is better than my Abu.
    
    My brother and I are definitely getting that competative itch.  Neither
    of us can wait to get to that field of combat and let the better reel
    and fisherman win.  Will let you know this spring which of us wins in
    our annual fishing competition.
    
    the Bassassin.
    
    
    PS  We both noticed that the line tends to pile up on the left side of
    the reels.  This did not seem to effect the casting but, was very
    noticeable.  We both use the casting technique of rod handles up too. 
    Anyone else have this happen and is there something you can do to
    rememdy this?

    
    RE: .51
    
    	Hey Ed,
    
    	Yeah the Abu 5500GR got me started and I also moved up
    	to the Abu 521 XLT LH.  Looking for my second soon.
    
    	Harbormaster_three_days_and_counting_to_FL
     

Gee Gary, I got a 521 XLT LH a few weeks back an I'm considering another.  Must
be a good reel or something.

    Gary, used the 521 last weekend on my All-Star rod. The fish were not home 
    so I spent some time casting a few different things. I am reel happy with 
    my selection. 
    
    Hey, put that reel to good use down south. Good luck.
    
    Ed