Rod Setup Advice Request

[Daryk Campbell Sr]

So this year, I have decided to take advice from many on this site and bought a Pflueger President reel. Picked it up from Dunn's Sporting goods this morning. Now I would like to know, what line/rod you would recommend? I generally fish ponds/ small lakes and creeks. Mostly my go-to fish has been catfish, but would like to go after bass, large and small mouth.

This request is coming from a loyal zebco '33' user, I do actively use an open face, just am not sure of the brand, been a while since I got out.

[Mitch f]

A six ft. medium with 8 pound test is probably good enough for 8 out of 10 applications

[fishinwrench]

Which size reel did you get?

[RSBreth]

A six ft. medium with 8 pound test is probably good enough for 8 out of 10 applications

And a 7' Medium power/fast action would be good for 9 out of 10 applications - especially if you are shore or wade fishing.

[Al Agnew]

6 ft. or 7 ft. is somewhat a matter of personal preference, but make sure you don't get one that's a heavier power than medium. 7 ft. will give the wading angler a little more distance, 6 ft. will be a little easier to handle when there is brush and trees behind you on the bank.

[Dutch]

Which size reel did you get?

X2

Reel size will make a difference in what rod and line you need to use.

[Daryk Campbell Sr]

Not sure on size, will update this evening. I appreciate the input this far.

[Daryk Campbell Sr]

I guess it's model#6935, spool shows 6,8,10lb mono, 8,10,14# braid. Gear ratio:5:2:1.

[Daryk Campbell Sr]

Ok, So a medium action 6 to 7 foot, 1 piece or 2 piece? Does it make a difference? How about brands/materials? I am really new to "matching" up, and if I am spending the money, I would like to know why.

[mjk86]

Go with the specs on the reel for line size, and match that up with a rod with the same specs. Like most said, 7ft med power, fast or mod/fast action will work for almost any situation. Dont even bother asking about brands, everyone has different opinions. All of the major manufactures make good rods within a given price point. I use presidents with a 100-200$ spinning rod. I have, fenwick, abu, croix, bps, and cabelas, they are all different but all good, just gotta see what you like best. When you go to buy a rod, bring the reel with you, and google how to match up spinning rods and reels (balance and alignment). Most probably say that a 1 piece rod will out perform a 2 piece rod. I wouldnt know because all of my 1 piece rods have broken tips....so i buy 2 piece now. I use braid line, with a fluoro leader, but for most applications mono will do just as well.