Thanks Stewy - I had a Stradic in mind - the Certates looks good but well above current budget, and the twin - closer - but I like the idea of the the Stradic weight and price wise. The 3000 has drag of 15 lbs while the 4000 has 20lbs - when you speak of "drag capacity for 20lb braid" do I need to have a 20lb drag, or does the lighter 3000 stradic measure up OK. And would it be strong enough?
Hope this is not all too dumb - with my only decent cod - 11.5 lbs - my reel stuffed up and I pulled him hand over hand - infinitely variable drag!!
Re the rod - most of the Shimanos I have seen in the 6-8 kg are either very expensive, or about 7'- my bream rod is that but seems manageble - felt that might be too long for Jack so found a Daiwa Procaster 601 XHFS - 5-8 kg, 6' and good price - $90.00. Would you have any other suggestions please. Thanks again Jim