Starter....

[Gardiner14]

I actually found a buddy that wants to get in to the muskies with me. I know what rod i wanna get, a st.croix mojo muskie 7'6" heavy but as far as reel im very undecided. I reel lefty so a few iv found are out of the question, iv narrowed it down to the Abu Toro Nacl or the C3 or 4 6500 series. I dont really want to spend a lot on any thing until i know what i want, but will to get quality. If any body has any other recommendations let em rip. I know this has been beat to heck on here sorry.

And for a starter is there any thing besides, tackle, good net, pliers, wire cutter i would not think of that you vets know?

Thanks guys.

[Andrew Erickson]

as far as the rods go, I like the mojo. I have one myself but if i were you I'd go with an 8'.You'd be surprised how much 6" makes Also you can check out the tackle industries rods. They make a solid rod and you won't be breaking the bank over it. Reels, the abu toro Nacl isn't a bad choice. Also look into the shimano reels.If you are willing to spend a little extra, the 401 TE is hard to beat. Pretty amazing reel actually. They make some great products and you can find some quality used stuff at muskiefirst dot com. I also recommend a good bump board. Its way easier to measure fish with and will save the fish from being stressed to bad. If you look you can find some fairly cheap. As far as release tools go, you are pretty much right on but i recommend a big set of jaw spreaders. That is one tool I won't step foot in the boat without.

[Gardiner14]

Allright i can see where that would help. Does one go with a 3-8oz lure weight or 3/4-3oz?

Thanks

[mrklean]

If you are going to toss lighter baits like small to med bucktails, some jerkbaits, topwaters, you would be ok with the 3/4-3. If you plan to use any larger bucktails, dawgs etc go with the heavier one. Don't over look the Daiwa Lexa reels I got a killer deal on a 300 under $100 for a lightly used one spooled already.

[Scoot]

Given what you said, an 8' with the NaCl would be my choice.

[tolle141]

9' if you'll be fishing from a boat and can fit it in your car.

+1 on the TI

+1 on the 400TE or 400D

Hooks are thicker than many think. Get a Knipex. Those things are sweet!

[mainbutter]

+1 on a long rod.. I really don't have any confidence in my figure 8s with a short rod plus all the other benefits they provide.

I've got an okuma that is a solid blank that telescopes into the handle, gives me just enough space when it's shortened to fit in my car.

That said, I do like a short rod for working phantoms, but I don't have it in my budget to get the perfect rod for each lure.