01-06-2004, 05:03 AM
Most of my non-ultralight fishing is now with a Shimano Stradic (1000 for 4lb., 4000 for 8lb.) Prior to getting the Stradic 4000, I used a Shimano Aero Symetre 4000 which is now my "heavy" fishing backup. You didn't specifically say what price range you were looking for, but your comments about the decimal point in costs indicate you're looking for a moderately priced reel. I'd suggest you take a peek at the Aero Symetre 4000. Shimano touts it's ruggedness and dependability and the big river canyon fishing I put mine though seems to support their claim. At $85 and holding 200 yds. of 10# line, it should fit your needs. It's available in both front and rear drag models. It's reasonably light at around 12 oz.
The Mitchell 300X someone previously mentioned is obviously another consideration. I feel it hasn't yet proven its durability. I have special concern about its non-metal body, but if it's anything close to my old Mitchell 300's, it'll do great. I bought my daughter one and she likes it. She won't put it through all the stuff my reels have to endure, but it has been through one big river canyon trip, landing six trout around five lbs. from heavy, fast water. A friend of mine has put his 300X through something like four or five of those big river canyon trips with over six five+ lb trout each trip and his has been like a Timex -- "takes a beating and keeps on ticking," so far.
As for a one rod outfit, I'd suggest a seven foot, medium action Ugly Stick. You can always upgrade later and have the Ugly Stick as a backup, because I'm sure that one will last forever unless you drop a heavy safe on it or fish so much that you wear a grove in the guides.
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The Mitchell 300X someone previously mentioned is obviously another consideration. I feel it hasn't yet proven its durability. I have special concern about its non-metal body, but if it's anything close to my old Mitchell 300's, it'll do great. I bought my daughter one and she likes it. She won't put it through all the stuff my reels have to endure, but it has been through one big river canyon trip, landing six trout around five lbs. from heavy, fast water. A friend of mine has put his 300X through something like four or five of those big river canyon trips with over six five+ lb trout each trip and his has been like a Timex -- "takes a beating and keeps on ticking," so far.
As for a one rod outfit, I'd suggest a seven foot, medium action Ugly Stick. You can always upgrade later and have the Ugly Stick as a backup, because I'm sure that one will last forever unless you drop a heavy safe on it or fish so much that you wear a grove in the guides.
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