Reel Advice Please

[mauser]

I've just bought a Greys Prodigy 12' rod with two tips, 1.25 TC & 1.75 TC for a bit of ledgering for tench and medium carp, and was wondering if anyone could advise me on the ideal size Shimano Baitrunner reel which will be in balance for this rod? I will be using lines from 6LB to 10lb. Also, for a newbie, do you think this rod with the TC's I have mentioned is a good choice or should I have gone for the 1.5 to 2LB TC?

[mithrandir]

I have the same rods, they are fine for what you are intending, I use a wychwood rouge freespin 50 with mine, more than adequate.

I would only use the heavier TC rods on rivers in flood. the 1.75 tc top was used on the river Severn when hunting barbel.

I recently used the 1,25 tc top when carp fishing and found it nice to play smaller carp ( under 10lb) on the soft top, it really gives you a sense of playing the fish that you lose with a stiffer rod

[BoldBear]

I use Progdigy Barbel rods (1.7lb top + Quivertips) and I use Shimano GTE 5000B's (and older 4000's which you can't get anymore).
The new shimano GTE 5000C's which shimano has replaced them with are even better and are as smooth as silk with brand new clutch design etc.
These reels balance perfectly with the Prodigy's.
If you look around on the web you can buy both these reels for sale at reduced prices.

NB. However if you intend to float fish for average sized Tench with lines between 4lb and 8lb you might want to try a smaller Shimano eg. Stradic, Nexave or Exage. (I have never used one of these smaller shimano's so cannot give any recomendations)
BB

[mauser]

Many thanks for the advice.

[Portland Pirate]

I have to agree with BoldBear. The shimano GTE 5000 B is one of the best reels to match your rods. Even if you decide to move up a TC or Two the real will still handle it.