Bottom Bouncer Reel -- what to use?

[BigWadeS]

I am looking at getting a rod or 2 that I dedicate to bottom bouncing, what reels do you use and what would you stay away from? Thanks

[Northlander]

Get a good quality baitcaster with a flippin switch for sure and a twitching thumb bar if you can afford it. Bass pro makes a nice bottom bouncer combo. I use the 7'ers.

[Shorelunch]

I agree with Northlander on the reels. With a "Flippin Switch", you just push the button instead of engaging the reel all of the time when you let out line. I think Quantum and maybe one other manufacturer make reels with the flippin switch.

As far as rods, I like 6' 6" medium to medium heavy rods, depending on the weight of bouncers you use. I don't think you need a high end rod, but you don't want a cheapy, either.

[fishwater]

Folks are recommending the Daiwa Megaforce reel with twitch bar as well. I have only played with one in the store, don't know for sure how cool they really are. One handed drop and retrieve does sound sweet!

I use the Accurist PT reels.

[BigWadeS]

I ended up ordering a Quantum walleye grade baitcaster with a trolling/twitching bar.

[gunflint]

Big Wade, how do you like that reel? I'm looking hard at that or the Red Hot. My bottom bouncing reel just died. (The last Cabela's reel I'll ever own) I need to make a decision by the end of next week.

[goose89]

I'm getting a bit confused here.

Get a good quality baitcaster with a flippin switch for sure and a twitching thumb bar if you can afford it.

[fishwater]

The Megaforce I just "played with" in the store did not drop line with one hand. Awesome how is retrieved with the thumb bar, but still was a two handed process to let line out and re-ingage the reel.

Goose89, I'm pretty sure you can engage the reel after dropping line with the twitch bar. No need to use both hands.

[goose89]

I missed that. That would make sense though. I should have played more. Thx.

[Ed Carlson]

The Flipp'n Switch is the best deal the Bass World ever gave to the Walleye World, or we stole it from them...whatever...it works.

If you straight-line troll cranks and bouncers, they are the Cats Whiskers for making quick adjustments.

If your thinking lead-core, then a traditional line counter reel with a wide chassis has the capacity and width to handle the bulky line best.

[Northlander]

I missed that. That would make sense though. I should have played more. Thx.

Yup.

[thedeadsea]

Gander in Duluth has Megaforces marked down to $49.99. I picked one up last night. Will give it a try this weekend.

I know they are designed for bottom bouncing jigs and worms, but you would think they would work equally well with a suspending crank like the Shad Rap RS.

Steve