Hi all,
I’m writing with a question about an affordable rod and reel setup to target trout. I’m an intermediate fisherman (mostly smallmouth), but am looking to branch into trout and panfish fishing this spring up here in Ontario and Quebec.
I’ll mostly be kayak fishing the small lake my cottage is on (stocked with brook trout), but also plan on exploring the region to do some shore fishing on occasion and need to be mindful of overhanging brush. I’m planning on mostly throwing small spoons and inline spinners. I’d also like to be able to target panfish with the same combo.
Based on my research, I think I need a light power, medium-fast or fast action rod, around 6-ish feet. The reel I think can range from 1000-2500 or so in size. Ideally, I’d like to spend around $100 total maximum.
The Bass Pro Shops near me currently has the Abu Garcia Max SX spinning reel on sale for $60 CAD. I'm thinking about getting this in the 2000 size. I've heard it's a very good value reel, especially with this sale. Would this be good for trout fishing?
I was thinking about pairing it with the BPS Tourney Special 6-foot, light power, fast action spinning rod, which is actually also on sale for $50. I'm also considering the BPS Extreme STK spinning rod with the same specs, which is about the same price.
A few other options I found that are slightly over budget are the BPS Micro Lite, 6.5 ft, light power, fast action and the Daiwa Fuego B, 6.5 ft, ultra light power, fast action.
Does anybody have any experience with this gear and any insight on whether it would be suitable for my needs and pair well with the reel? I'm having a bit of a hard time picking, and would love to hear from people with experience. I think the reel especially is a good deal, but I've had a harder time finding suitable rods at a reasonable price. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. I've also been looking at some combos, like this Lews Hypersonic&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22114633606&gbraid=0AAAAADgLB3rc37Y4L47vRaOYOuhXQ0xhn&gclid=Cj0KCQjwve7NBhC-ARIsALZy9HUbgRh_4fBxob91B3zz5lwi8W6TlZX1PVzW19i2jXi9YENFty0xoEcaAm7IEALw_wcB) or Pflueger Trion, though I understand they may be of worse quality.
Many thanks!
TLDR: Is the Abu Garcia Max SX 2000 reel good for stocked trout fishing, and what rod should I pair with it?
Posted by MapleLakes11