The Stradic Ci4+
The Shimano Stradic Ci4+ is a well-built reel that's extremely smooth and powerful for its size. You could compare its strength to larger-sized reels such as the Daiwa BG. It has excellent casting distance and a surprisingly quiet drag.
Since the reel was released, we've gotten hundreds of reports that they spin like they're brand new even after years of heavy use. Little maintenance is needed because of the tightly-sealed design, which prevents any water or corrosive elements from getting in.
This is one of the most sensitive reels ever made. It's light, and the components are fused so tightly that it transfers all vibrations from the line to the handle.
Stradic Ci4+ Rod Criteria
When pairing the Stradic Ci4+ with a rod, one of the most important considerations is the weight. The reel is ultra-lightweight, and a setup will feel unbalanced with any rod longer than 7 feet.
The sensitivity is also an important consideration. The reels great vibration transfer doesn't do much good on a rod that's vibration resistant. All of the reels we recommend are between medium and light ratings to ensure the best performance possible.
St Croix Avid ~ Medium-Light
When pairing a rod with the size 1000 Ci4+ reel, there's nothing better than the St Croix Avid Series. This combination is super technical and is a favorite for anglers targeting large trout species.
The Avid model with a medium-light rating and a length of 6 feet 3 inches is ideal, but any size between 6 feet 3 inches and 6 feet 8 inches works as well.
This rod has IPC Technology that eliminates all of the transitional points where vibrations are usually lost. It has smoother action, increased strength, and, most importantly, much better sensitivity.
Arguably the most enticing factor is the 15-year transferable warranty for the Avid Series. If your rod is damaged during the next 15 years, St Croix has premium insurance and replacement included in the purchase.
St Croix Legend Tournament ~ Medium-Light/Xfast
The St Croix Legend Tournament is the brand's top-tier model that perfectly pairs the size 2500 Ci4+ reel. It has a strong, carbon fiber reinforced black, which adds strength to the rod without increasing the weight or hindering the performance.
Like the Avid Series, this rod has IPC technology to eliminate any transitional points. This is such an important rod factor for the Stradic Ci4+, and you'll end up wasting money without good quality, sensitive equipment.
Our recommendation is to use the medium-light extra-fast model. This is a light rating for a size 2500 reel, but since it's strengthened with carbon fiber, it gives you the best of both worlds. The Stradic Ci4+ reels also run small so that it will have a great balance for long casts.
Favorite Fishing Phantom ~ Medium/Fast-Action
Favorite Fishing is a relatively new rod manufacturer, but their Phantom Rod in the 6'6" Medium Fast-Action Spec is great for the size 3000 Ci4+. Again, it all comes down to obtaining the best balance, and we didn't see this reel fit any rod quite right until the Phantom Series came around.
Now, this combination is incredible. Since it's a mid-range setup, you can use it in a variety of situations. It'll catch Striped Bass out in the ocean, Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Northern Pike in freshwater. Another bonus is the elegant rod design that matches the curves of the Stradic Ci4+ nicely.
Fenwick HMG ~ 7' Medium-Heavy
As the size of your reel gets larger, the rod paired with it should get heavier. For the size 4000 Stradic Ci4+, a great option is the 7-foot Medium-Heavy Fenwick HMG Rod. The length recommendation of 7 feet is the longest model you should consider, but anything between this and 6 feet 6 inches will work fine.
The Fenwick HMG Spinning Rod is built like a tank and comes at a much more affordable price than other brands. It has a longer grip constructed from high-strength grip AAA cork and spiraled carbon threading through the blank.
We like the Fenwick HMG for the 4000 Stradic Ci4+ because its medium-heavy rating rod has a nice balance between strength and sensitivity. Also, nobody has been able to beat their Lifetime Warranty covering the product.
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