WNCtroutstalker wrote:
"Won't break the bank" is a relative term of course, but....
I've never handled one in person, but if you want a new reel, I'd take a look at the Redington Behemoth at around $110 I think. If used is OK, you might look for a SA System 2. I've picked up several in new to almost new condition for under $100, sometimes well under. Really solid reels.
I guess you can decide for yourself on the rod, but as someone already noted above, my recollection is that even the Prime fans have been underwhelmed with the 8, or at least didn't think it cast/fished like an 8 wt. Anyway, perhaps be sure you want to keep the rod before buying a reel that you otherwise wouldn't need.
Sure, great advice. I don't fish anything heavier than a 4 most of the time. I have two carbon 8 wts, and a Redington Behemoth 7/8 on one of those. It's a very solid reel, for sure.
I know a lot of folks are huge fans of the Prime 4 wt, but I wasn't totally wowed by that one -- probably need to try out some different lines. I just figured, for $49, I didn't have a lot to lose!