New Reel

Ok so some good feedback on the rod, so let's throw the reel in the mix. I have been using a tf gear delta gt10000. Very nice smooth fixed spool reel. But now need a new one. I was thinking of buying another but any advice on alternative fixed spool will be taken into account.

In my eyes theirs only 2 fixed spool reels

1st (I use)
SHIMANO AERLEX 7000/8000 XSA REEL



Or the Akios Scora 80 Long Range Fixed Spool Surf Reel



both very good reels    

Disappointed with the ( lack of ) longevity of the gears on my previous Penn Surfmasters ( before they brought out the surf blaster)
I added a Shimano Ultegra XSB 14000 fixed spool to the Century,

it's a big reel that holds enough line to reach Dublin, being big it might detract a little from the grace of the Century LD but it's been bullet proof for 3 years and the gears have enough grunt to bring in 250 yards of line when I do the open the bail arm and retreat over the gulley thing, I try to let the rod do the work on the retrieve with a "pump and wind" but even so I like a strong reel and I'm happy with this combination- not sure of current prices but talking a combined cost of about £500 3 years ago.

Notbad wrote:

Disappointed with the ( lack of ) longevity of the gears on my previous Penn Surfmasters ( before they brought out the surf blaster)
I added a Shimano Ultegra XSB 14000 fixed spool to the Century,

it's a big reel that holds enough line to reach Dublin, being big it might detract a little from the grace of the Century LD but it's been bullet proof for 3 years and the gears have enough grunt to bring in 250 yards of line when I do the open the bail arm and retreat over the gulley thing, I try to let the rod do the work on the retrieve with a "pump and wind" but even so I like a strong reel and I'm happy with this combination- not sure of current prices but talking a combined cost of about £500 3 years ago.

That's a big reel (a good reel but big) I like the 7000/8000 sizes the penn's are also cracking reels

With a new reel and a new rod you may need a new tripod of course

( seriously you wouldn't want it to fall over and break your rod would you!)
I use the blue Salt adjusting one, but I took the side bars off they were just a nuisance and added a simple cross piece fastened in place with pipe clips when I feel it's needed such as when fishing off concrete