Targeting big grouper...rod & reel recommendations

[PEACE OUT]

I have fished mainly up to 40 miles offshore with the occasional 50-60 mile trip but have never targeted big nasty groupers. I have started going into deeper water (thanks to my new friends here at 2cool) and would like to be able to catch some just for the sheer thrill and to share their tasty flesh with my buds. I have heard a thousand and one different recommendations on what type of rod & reel to use so I come here hoping to get dialed in.

Right now I'm leaning towards an Avet EXW 50/2 with 130 pound braid and a 130 pound rated stand-up rod. On the rod, I'm trying to stay away from rollers due to the horror stories I've heard about them but will go that route if need be. I do have two 60-80 pound line class FTU stand-up tuna rods (5'6" and 6') with only eyelets available but thought that 130 pound braid may come in handy.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

(Oh man, I just know I'm going to hear it for posting this thread...oh well...hahaha)

[James Howell]

For really big warsaws, I would kick the braid level up to 250 lb., especially fishing near rigs or big rocks/wrecks. The 60-80 lb rods won't stand up over time with that heavy of gear (neither will standard eyes on a rod, heavy duty rollers are the way to go). 400-600 lb mono leaders, up to 3-4 lbs of lead, and 3-5 lb live/dead baits will get you into the 100+lb club.

[cobia 254 cc]

We use a 50w Trex with 500 JB hollow core paired with a Pinnacle bent butt roller rod with stuart rollers. 400 mono leader doubled with a 20/0 Mustad circle.

[Savage Rods]

I agree with James. In your case the rollers might be the best thing for you. If you use a regular guide, they are not going to hold up. An alternative would be Fuji turbo guides with roller tip, now if Fuji would just get in stock. I think the rollers would be better in your case and you no linger have to worry about braid creeping into the sides of the rollers and getting pinched, as long as it is a good quality roller like aftco. I would seriously look at 130# rods.

[LD]

My father fished for them, I still have the tackle. He used a Penn Senator 12/0 and 14/0 reel with 130 mono with a 10' cable leader (big). All this was on a True Temper 7' 80-130 rod, roller tip only.

[Southern Hunter]

When it comes to the big boys...there's no such thing as overkill!

[asnow06]

Bent butts sure do make it easy.

[Dismissed]

I've rebuilt a few Avet EX 4/0 2's, can easily get mid-30 lb range of drag at strike and great freespool with a few changes. This puts full drag in the low 40's. Have it filled with 200 lb Spectra and make sure you have a strong rod. Agree with above on rollers.

Have to find one used, though, as they're not made anymore. The T-RX is capable of that out of the box, but it's substantially bigger.

Troy
Short Corner Tackle

[PEACE OUT]

Thanks for all the input. Seems like Avet is the way to go.

[z3zman]

Whatever you decided to buy, go get that big grouper...