I have used a ton of different casting reels. I fish more than I hunt. Right now one of the best reels on the market in your price range is a Daiwa Tatula SV TW103. They make a lefty version and is $199.99 at BPS.

Most casting reels will slip if loaded with just braid. You need a mono backing. It is not hard to do and only need 25-50 yards at most. I use a double uni or FG knot. The double uni is a much easier knot to tie. I normally use anything from 12-17 pound test for the mono followed with 50lb braid.

Any decent rod will work from the BPS Carbon Lite 2.0, BPS Extreme up to just about whatever your budget allows. St Croix and G Loomis make awesome rods. Another that is great for the money is Daiwa Tatula rod as well.


Last edited by himmelrr; 05/06/22.