Matching the proper size reel to rod

I(my wife) just bought a new JTX light 7’3″ rod. I am going to use 8 lb test braid with a 6 lb floro leader. My question is do I go with a 1000 size reel or a 2000? Just want to know what you guys are using and/or recommend? Will the smaller size reel effect the distance of the cast? Thanks and good fishing . Ray

1000 size should be just fine. I use a lot of the 1000 size and prefer them for their finesse. When I go with the 2000-3000 sized reels they’re more for high duty work and more for holding the fish on longer runs.

If it’s lite action, either is fine. I think distance would be negligible between the 2.

I would say get both reels and try them out and return the one you do not choose. Better yet, go somewhere where you can put them on the rod to see how they balance. Hold the rod in the position you usually do. You want the reel that makes the rod not feel tip or butt heavy. You can use your index finger to balance the rod. Where it balances should be near the middle of your usual grip. Too light of a reel will make the rod tip heavy and this will make fishing uncomfortable for a whole day. I have not held this rod, but as it is fairly long it would balance better with the 2000.

I use rmartin’s method of trying to make for a balanced set up. Go play with some store models and see what feels best in your hand.

2000 without out a ? With a rod that long your going to want a bigger real to balance it out.

All great tips, I will try both reels and check balance. Always good to hear from others experience and lessons.

2000.

Diameter of the spool is more important than size of the reel. I have 1000 size reels with 500-size spools ans some with 2000-size spools. I prefer the latter. The line flows more freely from a wider spool.

I went a happy medium with a 2500 size, I feel the larger spool you et less coiling in your line.

You will LOVE that rod. Make sure you get a reel that fits it. With a higher end reel, you are typically looking at a 0.2 ounce difference between the 1000 and 2000 size. If it’s a stick I’m looking to get longer casts with, I go with the wider spool.