[Phil]

What rods would you recommend for casting Shimano Calcutta 400 & 700S? I surf in the Gulf of Mexico for reds & small shark. Do you recommend going new or searching ebay for classic rods? Thanks

 

[IPNURWATER]

Those have levelwinds don't they? If so your only gonna get so much distance with those. You'll probably will be better selling them off and replacing them if your intentions are surf fishing with distance...not bad reels just wasn't built for surf distance .I used a Calcutta for togs spades, and sheep head for awhile and they held up to them but if i remember right the frame screws would loosen easily,on fights.

 

[IPNURWATER]

But to answer your question the penn battalions ,prevails are a good bang for the buck.

 

[Phil]

Thanks for the suggestion. The reels were given to me by my dad, who gave up fishing. I'm just trying to find use for them.