What rod / reel for wire line?

CapeCodFrank · Jan 30, 2009

I would like to get a rod / reel for trolling wire line to catch stripers. I am looking for recommendations on what outfit to buy. I am willing to spend around $300 for the rod and reel. But the catch is... I have to buy it at West Marine... I am holding a gift card that I need to use for this purpose. Any suggestions?

B-Faithful · Jan 30, 2009

Penn 113H2SP special senator (SP designation means the reel has a bronze spool for wire line). I believe they make a matching wire-line senator rod.

http://www.pennreels.com/

If they dont stock it, I am sure worst, i mean west, marine can order it in for you.

bayfever21 · Jan 30, 2009

I have used Penn 320 &330 reels with great success . Some of the reels are over 8 years old. ALL of the poles with wire line have roller guides from top to bottom.

CapeCodFrank · Jan 31, 2009

Thanks for the advice. I have a few questions. Someone told me to be sure the wire line rod guides were made of "carbolyd (?)". I see that the Penn Senator Wireline rod has Fuji Silicone Nitride II guides. Second, I have heard that the Senator reels are not what they used to be since they are now manufactured in China, and that I should look at Shimano. Third, I have been told to avoid rollers as the knot between the wire and leader often gets hung up on a tip roller, and that most folks in the Northeast don't use them. Any comments on these questions?

mrfunandson · Jan 31, 2009

Idon't know when Penn started making the reels over seas but the 113h with the bronze pool is the only way to go. I have had them working with out problems for some 15 years now. Okuma makes a wire line real now too but have no experience with them, you have to be very carful with the spools on these reals they will take a beating, not aware of Shimano making anything that would work for this but general;ly you know they have a very good product line. If you are going to use the rods more then a few times a year go with the carbolyd and avoid roller guides (ever the tip). I have a pair of Seeker wire line rods that have been great with the metal real seats that I really like. Keep in mind there is a lot of pressure on these components especially if you plan on dragging spoons which we do here in the NY area all the time. If you plan on pulling a diving plug or umbrella rig you may not need stuff this heavy.

bayfever21 · Jan 31, 2009

to stop pulling the knot in the guide, a plastic bead can be put in above the knot. this will keep the knot out of the guide . all of my poles with wire line are roller guides and have not had a problem with any of them. make sure your reel seat is a good one because that's where the most pressue will be when trolling. fugi makes an excellent reel seat. l