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Posted: 1/15/2017 7:51:53 PM EDT
I have decided to get into catfishing, flatheads to be exact. I fished for cats years ago however I always used borrowed gear.
After doing some research on reels I am even more confused that when I started. Rods seem to be more simple, I think I want a fiberglass, 8 footer of some flavor.
What style of reel do you prefer and why? I am leaning to the Abu Garcia 7000 series using braided line however I am concerned about nesting. All advice is appreciated. I would like to keep the setup in to 200 - 300 dollar range.
Link Posted: 1/16/2017 10:42:44 PM EDT
[#1]
I am using the Catmaxx series baitcast reel with a 7'6" heavy rod from Bass Pro.  Power Pro 65# braided line, 2 oz. no roll sinker and 50# leader snelled to a big cat circle hook.  This may be a little heavy for your AO, but it's what I use and have far less than $200.00 in this entire rig.  I have some smaller catfish rigs with less money invested but this is just an example of the extreme you could invest.
Link Posted: 1/19/2017 10:29:20 PM EDT
[#2]
When I go for flatheads I just use my Inshore setup... A St Croix Mojo Musky rod with an Avet SX reel. I also float for them off my kayak so I usually go with a little bit lighter gear.
Link Posted: 1/20/2017 8:08:09 PM EDT
[#3]
Okuma Trio baitfeeder and an ugly stick.
Link Posted: 2/17/2017 6:36:34 AM EDT
[#4]
Originally Posted By Glocker1986:
I have decided to get into catfishing, flatheads to be exact. I fished for cats years ago however I always used borrowed gear.
After doing some research on reels I am even more confused that when I started. Rods seem to be more simple, I think I want a fiberglass, 8 footer of some flavor.
What style of reel do you prefer and why? I am leaning to the Abu Garcia 7000 series using braided line however I am concerned about nesting. All advice is appreciated. I would like to keep the setup in to 200 - 300 dollar range.
View Quote


Spinning reels are so much easier to use but they lack in the torque department. With a little practice and use of a cast control knob, you'll be able to cast a conventional reel with little effort and it will have the drag and torque necessary for battling a potentially large Flathead Catfish. Abu Garcias have been around a long time and are a fine reel. Take a look at similar offerings from Shimano, Avet, Accurate, etc. and you will be able to put together a combo that will work not just for big catfish but a decent amount of saltwater fish you may encounter down the road. Fill it with 50-65lb braid and you'll have a little powerhouse good for a variety of fisheries.
Link Posted: 4/21/2017 2:13:37 PM EDT
[#5]
Did you spend your money yet?
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