Casting rod and reel questions

I have used spinning gear for pike for many years. Fishing in Manitoba every spring.
I want to rig up an old casting reel of my fathers. It is a Daiwa Millionaire approximately 40 years old. I use braided line. I mostly cast 3/4-1oz spoons. How important is getting a rod that is rated to say 2 oz lure, if I want to cast a 1 3/4 oz top water lure. I have a rod good to 1 oz lure. Do I really need a heavier rod???
Will a more limber rod cause more backlashes?
Thanks for your advice in advance. Doug

I use a med heavy rod for up to 1 1/2 oz with no problem. I like a 7’ rod. Set your drag right and use a leader with a quality snap and you will be good.

Have fun.

If that is the old Diawa Millionaire I hope you know how to use a baitcaster as there is only one adjustment on those and that is spool friction. They are heavy and any good 7 foot plus rod will do I would go with a medium heavy as you want some distance normally casting for Pike. Better get you arms in shape before you go.I have both a blue Diawa Millionaire and the Abu Garcia 5000C, I just had them out awhile back and forgot how heavy they really are I cannot believe I could cast all day with these and the old fiberglass rods.

I have used both of those reels but it was about 40 years ago. My plan is to have it rigged with a surface lure and ready to go. My first trip to Canada was when I was 10. My dad spent a lot of time picking out backlashes. He passed away a few years ago. I thought I’d fish some the way he taught me to cast for pike. We had lots of great trips together. I think of him every time I go fishing.
Thanks for your replies. Doug

I like to use a 6′ rod for topwater baits but most anything will work for a trip down memory lane. Have the spool speed set and thumb the spool and you will eliminate most of your backlashes. Also, if backlashes are a major concern and you aren’t use to a baitcaster reel I would suggest 14-17lb mono vs braid. With braid the backlash seems to go deeper into the reel.

Just my opinion, have fun.

Good Luck and you may have an educated thumb by the end of the trip or so pissed off the combo may not make it back.

here’s a tip, as you make the cast, cock your wrist so the reel spool is vertical, but keep your thumb lightly on the spool. a vertical reel spool is less likely to overrun and cause a birds nest. have fun DK