Spinfisher VI 9500

[Shellbelly]

My son hinted to Santa, via Mrs. Santa, about a new reel...a spinner.  He knows I'm a conventional guy so I imagine he anticipated some pushback if he had approached me directly.  I got my marching orders from the boss and consulted the web.  Reviews are what they are.

I haven't bought a NIB reel from a store since a pair of ABU 5000 AL's caught my eye in a hardware store, whenever that was.  On top of that, I last used a spinner in 1981.  I remember the date because a carp spooled me in the Guadalupe River.  Nothing against spinners, I'm not a hater, I just like conventionals.

We are surf guys so I got him a reel that he can also use offshore should he ever decide to go out....and I believe he will.  I'll pair this up for the surf with a 10-12' MH fast 2pc.  Not sure what brand yet.  Looking at Rockaway's at the moment.  Bigwater's taper is a bit stiff, but doable.  Pluggin' along with surf rods....just don't want a noodle because they give up height when parked.

This is a big ### spinning reel!  It will hold enough line and has enough drag to haul 95% of what we hook from shore....40# or less is what we get into.  It ought to drag a stingray off the bottom as well.

So, my line question is about backing.  I'm not sure if it's necessary on this reel but I'm thinking 100yds of 50# mono (supposed to have 40# of drag here) and then 60# braid.  That should get him halfway to the Yucatan

Next, what spare parts should I keep handy in the field and on the bench?  Does it NEED upgrades?

Lastly, the VI9500 has been out for a while.  Anybody love it, hate it, broke it?  Caught a bunch of fish with it?   

[thorhammer]

no upgrades needed. 12' or up; I havent seen an 11 that balances. It's a beast. I put backing on, otherwise braid will cost a hundred bucks.