Spinning/baitcaster recommendations

[Huskereyes]

Hey guys-
I would like to request that all of you who read this please leave for me your choices and recommendations for spinning and baitcasters...I need to purchase all new gear and was wondering how anyone liked the Calcuttas? What brand do you like? Model? Please advise and thanks in advance.

[erik]

I can't speak to calcuttas, but the ABU UltraCast (about $100) the C4 (about $75) and the C3 (about $60-65$) are all great baitcasters. I have an UltraCast on a 7'6" Bionic Blade from Bass Pro Shops (they have a deal right now for a buy two get one free deal on the Bionic Blades) and its a great setup for throwing cranks. I also have a C4 on a 6'-8" St. Croix Avid (about $150) and love that as well. Its light enough to cast 1/8 ounce lures and will also handle some of the heavier rigs. They aren't St. Croix, but I'm really happy with the ones I own. One huge plus to getting ABU is that the customer service is great. I had a reel that was about 10 years old and sent it back for service. It was back to my doorstep within a week at no charge. They are a great company to deal with. As far as spinning gear goes, I have had good luck with the Shimano Spirex. I own three with rear drags and haven't had a bit of trouble. I know some guys like the fornt better, but for whatever reason, I prefer ther other. good luck - erik

[Roscoe]

I'm partial to Shimanos, I think they make a great product the castaic is a great reel for bottom bouncing and throwing cranks. I know alot of guys that like the abus. As far as spinning gear, I've had good luck with pinnacle, although I don't hear alot of guys talk about them. I use the deadbolt limited on my jiggin' and riggin' rigs, and feel they help my overall setup sensitivity. The cheaper pinnacles (vision) also work well for me. I mainly use them for tubin' smallies, but also like them for walleye casting light cranks, or night casting.

[NE FISHER]

I USE SHIMANNO BAITCASTING --NEVER HAD ANY TROUBLE WITH EVEN THE LOW END GEAR.
SPINNING I LIKE THE FLOW OF THE MITCHELL REELS. BASS PRO OFTEN HAS GOOD DEALS O MITCHELL REELS. DOESNT HAVE TO BE THE HIGH BUCK ONES EITHER--
GOOD FISHIN