[Pete]

As you can see there are many different opinions. And, I'm sure each guy believes his outfit will fit your needs. Best bet is get out on a couple party boats, if the mates have some favorite bucktail equipment they might let you try it. If I was on a boat I'd let you try out my outfit. And other anglers would as well. Some would never, but they are the exception rather than the rule. Real life as opposed to just holding a balanced combo is the way to go. Conditions can change in a hurry so with that the weight of the bucktail, changing the"feel" drastically.

Think of it as an investment. You wouldn't buy a car without driving it. Test drive a few when possible. You don't want to buy something that you come to realize just isn't right for you.

I almost exclusively back bay (Raritan) bucktail. I have a custom 6' 2" spinning rod Paid just south of 80 bucks and a middle of the road, quality, name brand spinning reel, which I bought for easy maintenance, and the fact that it got high reliability reviews $59.99, spooled with 10 lb. slick pp. No matter how much you spend you don't want your gear breaking down. Especially when the bite is on, and you are in the zone.

Lastly, always remember, it ain't the arrow but the indian. But, let's face it the better arrows sure can't hurt, the brighter indians agree with that.

Good luck!