Good Dealers for Reel and Rod in North NJ

[cnote24]

My father and I are looking to get outfitted with a rod and reel for some freshwater use for the rest of the summer and the fall up here in Northern New Jersey (Essex). Are there any reputable stores in the area that you could recommend?

We are considering Meltzers in Garfield, Ramsey Outdoor, and Fairfield Fishing Tackle but would be open to other suggestions.

Thanks for the assistance.

[Red]

All good choices, Ramsey's has a good selection of rods and reels, go to the website and print the monthly coupon to save a few bucks...

[Wilson]

If you really are serious about giving fishing a shot try and buy a reel that costs at least $70.00 or more.
Reels that are cheaper will develop drag problems and tent to wear - fall apart pretty fast. Rods is where you can save a little cash on.
Everyone has their favorites, I like Diawa reels for their silky drags and good build quality.

Nothing sucks more then having your reel blow up when the fish are biting. Always good to bring a back up as well.

The stores you mentioned should all have a selection of quality rods and reels.
Stay away from the reels packed on plastic cards hanging on a rack

[tycomps]

If you're looking at spinning reels I've always liked Shimanos. Dick's actually has a Shimano combo that is 69.99 and if you have them load it with Powerpro it'll get you out for under 100.00 and be a good starting point. I believe the reel is 4 bearings plus a line roller and the reel stops dead when you stop the crank, good luck.

shimano combo- http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...414799.4414833

shimano/field and stream combo (better rod?)-
http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...414799.4414833

2013 Shimano catalog-
http://fish.shimano.com/publish/cont...%20Catalog.pdf

I love the reviewers who say the rod is a piece of junk because it snapped when they were pulling on a snag, anyone pulling on a snag with the rod bent and not straight cupping the reel and holding the bail down isn't the sharpest tool in the shed. (That goes for mono not braid, I wrap braid around a stick and pull because it will cut you DEEP if you use your hand)! The same for complaints that rods aren't two piece, the reason for a single piece blank thru rod is enhanced sensitivity.

[MoparCharlie]

The personal service and advice you get with a family owned business far exceedes that of the sporting superstores.

Meltzer's in Garfield has always done right by me.