Ask Mark

[stoneman]

Dear Mark

I just recently purchased my first boat. My family and I love fishing. I was wondering what is a good conventional reel that could be used for trolling, kite fishing and drift fishing. I was looking at a reel that could hold 30 pound line, any suggestions?

Thanks Stoneman.

[marksosin]

Dear Stoneman:

You're on the right track. With very few exceptions, a 30-pound outfit will more than adequately cover most offshore assignments. If you fish swordfish, giant tuna, etc., you might want a heavier outfit, but that's the exception.

Depending on your budget, select a lever drag reel over a star drag model. Shimano makes some relatively inexpensive lever drag reels. Fin Nor has a new series called Marquesa that are truly beautiful and, from what I hear, they perform very well. In fact, I'm getting ready to switch over to them.

Mark Sosin

[albie1]

Mark, are the Fin Nor reels still made in this country?...............Fred..

[stoneman]

I know you use the Penn International Tourque what do you fink about it ?

[marksosin]

Gentlemen:

The Penn Torque has proven to be a good reel. I prefer the lever drag model to the star drag. My information on the Fin Nor Marquesa comes from Tommy Greene who runs one of the finest saltwater tackle shops in the country and is not only extremely knowledgeable on tackle and techniques, but stays abreast of the latest gear. A strong second on the Fin Nor came from IGFA. There are some on the way to me, but I haven't received them yet.

Mark Sosin