Spinning Reel Suggestion

[Even Steven]

Looking for a heavy duty reel to use on a 12' MH TICA, for sharking and drum fishing from the surf mainly. This would need to be a reel capable of handling a decent load. Baitrunner feature would be a nice bonus.

[fish-aholic]

if you want durability, capacity and performance I'd suggest a Penn 9500SS. They are not in production anymore so you'll have to shop ebay, pawn shops etc for one, but mine has been rock solid for years and with a capacity of over 400 yds of 20# test...there's lots of line for long runs

[trowpa]

My suggestion would be a Baitrunner 6500.

I have both an 8500 ss (1 size smaller than the one Jeff suggests) and a baitrunner 6500. I haven't had any big complaints with either reel, but I much prefer the shimano. The Baitrunner feature is amazingly useful and It just seems to be less "clunky" then the penn...and I have more confidence in the baitrunners drag - it seems much smoother. The penn does have more line capacity for its size and you'll find fans of both reels...neither one is a bad choice.

As for longevity, can't speak - only owned both reels for 2 years and unfortunately I don't get to use them as hard as I'd like ;)

[Randy Stinchcomb]

I too say the Shimano Baitrunner, either a 4500 or the next size up a 6500
I have one of each as my "surf-spinners" and have had NO problems or complaints outta' either one.

[esoxangler]

I have two 6500 baitrunners. Great reels! My only complaint is the clicker is not very loud. When you are out there and the waves are up you cannot hear the clicker go off. At least I can't. One reason I went to conventional reels. That is my only complaint however.

Whatever reel you get...also get a breakaway cannon for casting.

[Charkbait]

I agree on the cannon, don't know how I lived without it.

[Dave]

Where can I get a breakaway cannon?

[Steve]

Here ya go....

Cabela's -- Breakaway Cannon Casting Aid

[trowpa]

I have two on their way (had a cabelas gift certificate that was burning a hole in my pocket...) Can't wait to try them!

[trowpa]

One reason I went to conventional reels.

You went totally conventional Phil? Are you selling your 6500's cheap then?

I wonder if there is a way to modify reels to make them louder when the baitrunner drag is going out....

[Steve]

I wonder if there is a way to modify reels to make them louder when the baitrunner drag is going out....

Sure, open up the reel and pour some sand in.
NO! Just kidding!!!!
If you could open it up and figure out a way to attach a tiny piece of carbon or graphite so that it will screech when it engages...

[esoxangler]

I still have my 6500's for panfish use. Not sure I wanna get rid of them just yet.

[flame thrower]

Pictured below are the Tica Abyss and the Okuma Axion. I have fished the Axion for 3 plus years now with no issues I have two of these and they hold a lot of line 12 ball bearing hold 320 yard of 20.

The Abyss is over a year old and no issues to date I have the 6007 it holds 250 yards of 17 with 9 ball bearing and the bait feader

[DumBbaSS]

wow I have never seen nor heard off a fishing cannon before. how can that help with casting?

[Randy Stinchcomb]

I wonder if there is a way to modify reels to make them louder when the baitrunner drag is going out....

sit closer to the gear, turn the stereo down and put the beer away