(reels) 50 lb. or 80 lb. class, etc. (dual/single) ???

[RiskTaker]

Hi. I would like to have your seasoned opinions on reel preferences: 50 or 80 lb. class? I am newbie to swordfishing and very motivated to learn and do it well. I would like to get another capable rod/reel since I do not yet have 3 or more other buddies that are prepared to go at this time. I currently have a 50Tw single speed. Haven't been out there yet but from my reviews of your/postings and articles 50/80 is the minimum to do the job. My plan is to respool 50 tw with Spectra (50 or possibly 80 lb. - 1000+ yds.) to get maximum yardage and keep the hardware light based upon the lower drag settings for Swordfish. I am not sure if it is necessary to go to a higher (poundage) reel. Please advise. Besides costing more money to go to 80 lb. class reel, I am not too excited about lugging such a heavy rig for stand-up, unless there is/are compelling reasons to do so. Has anybody been stripped clean using a 50 with a 1000 yds. of line? Oh, please comment on dual speeds. It seems that sword fishing may require longer angles of non-direct connection before going tight. This seems to imply that fast response would be beneficial to tilt the favor to the angler. Thanks for your experienced response. RiskTaker

[Capt. Q]

I use TLD 50's. Send a pm to Jahmussa for a good price.

I spool them with 80lb sufix titanium. No wind-on, although I may start using them.

The combo's are light and can take the heat of 20lbs of drag plus.

The tiagra 50 wide is nice though.. but priced with the internationals.

Ask capt. mitch about using tld 25's. If you spool them and rig them right, you can hold off on getting out the big gear.

q