I am building a couple Mudhole MHX 7'6" spinning rods to be used for trout, reds, etc in the Fl intercoastal waters----Mosquito Lagoon, Indian River, etc.

I am looking at Shimano Symetre as I want to keep the cost around $100. I want to be sure I get a reel appropriate for the saltwater. There are so many choices the more I look the more confused i get! Looking at the sy2500, sy3000, and sy4000.

I would really appreciate any advice or suggestions. The reason I am looking at Shimano is that is the brand I used with a guide during the winter.

Herb

they are a a good reels, there are different sizes as well as cost, the more you spend on the reel [better quality ] the longer it will last, better drags, metal spools, better handles, more bearnigs, the pick up bail has a roller instead of a bar for the line to go over, it all counts up an itis not free,
Bill

The Symetre 3000FJ will do just fine.

Slightly over your price but I suggest the shimano saros. The 3000F will do. Load one spool with mono and one with braid and you can cover a lot of bases.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

Penn Battle, the 2000 has 6 lbs. of drag, not sure what the 3000 and 4000 have. these are made for the salt.

The symetre is a beautiful little reel performance wise but you'll need to take care of it in the salt. Mine did not last as long as I would like nor the other friends who had them. I used it in an open boat at sea though chasing tuna. Don't let that put you off though but something to keep in mind. I have some Penn Conquers now and they are better corrosion wise by a fair margin and perform pretty good.

You should check out the Quantum Cabo 30 or 40. The full model is CSP40PTSC. You can get one for about $140 and they are bullet proof. I would say they perform on the level of a much more expensive reel, and are made for the salt.

[www.basspro.com]

Excellent value in salt water reel.
Roger