trolling set up

maddogdrvr · Dec-15-2007, 09:59 AM

I am putting together a game plan to build a couple of trolling rods and was researching some reels. Have any of you guys had any experience with the quantum aruba two speed thirty wide. Without regard to price what is your favorite trolling reel and rod set up?

peto · Dec-15-2007, 10:54 AM

Shimano. As for the Quantum Aruba, haven't even seen one. As far as rods, St. Croix has a SWCMHF 60 or 66.

1:11 · Dec-15-2007, 11:34 AM

Depends on your needs and applications. If your going to use it for local trolling, local islands, and outerbanks for albacore and small tuna, An Avet EX 4/0 or (wide) is a nice two speed, can be had for cheap and can do double duty live bait in a pinch for most trips. Reel can also be tweaked to push the drag way up. The price is so good for this two speed i dont know of a reel that compares at the price.

Its A Keeper · Dec-15-2007, 02:47 PM

i have 3 Avet 4/0 Wides,,,

In my opinion its the best Value out there. I run 500yds of 100lb spectra with 150yd top shots of 100lb mono...Combined with up to 30lbs of drag pressure, there are not to many fish in SoCal that can top that. Its a shame that Avet quit making them.

Like you, I am planning to build 3 matching trolling rods for these reels. I have not decided what blank to use. But it will be at least 6ft, considering the Calstar GFighter..

Hopefully after christmas and new year, i can start buying the components.

MATTANZA · Dec-15-2007, 04:55 PM

Local trolling favorites, 2 each, 4 total... 2 Penn 16S, Cofe'd, Tiburon topless frame with 80lb Spectra & 50-60lb top shot. One's on a Truline VBG55 & a Seeker CTSF55XH. Also 2Shimano Tiagra 20, Cofe'd, topless frame with 80lb Spectra & 60-80lb top shot. Both on Seeker CTSF60XH's. This is what I use for offshore trolling. If I could have anything... I'd change all the reels over to Accurate Platinum 30's, and the rods to the same model numbers in Super Seekers.

**fishnfool** · Dec-15-2007, 05:41 PM

You guys are recommending the Avet 4/0 and they are no longer in production. If you can find a new one anywhere I would be surprised. It's a good recommendation but anybody looking for one should be advised they will most likely be looking for a used reel. You may still be able to find a new one on Ebay or Cabbagekey but highly unlikely.

Having said that my recommendation would be an Avet EXW30, or possibly HX2, Shimano TLD 30, or Tyrnos 30, and Daiwa SLD30 or SLT30. These are all very solid reels, will handle most local species, and are reasonably priced. If you are going to target bigger fish such as Swordfish, Threshers, or Makos then you may want to consider bumping up to the 50 or 50 wide models.

I would also recommend going to a couple local shops and checking them out. All the features are similar but it is always best to get your hands on them and see which one feels best to you. Weight, size, location of the lever and drag pre-set, ease of operation shifting in and out of low/high gear etc... and chose the one that feels best to you that fits your budget. You really can't go wrong with any of them. Of course if your budget allows don't forget to check out the Accurates...cream of the crop IMHO.

hucklongfin · Dec-15-2007, 06:35 PM

Local trolling? 6/0. It worked for your grandaddy, it'll work for your grandson.