Originally Posted by
lazyfisherman
Using the gear you have, you have enough to fish 3/4 days with a couple addition.
Torium 16 with Seeker American Series A270H-8'CT (15-25-40)
This combo can be used as your main set up. Spool with spectra with a topshot of 25 lb mono. Bring some extra 20, 25, 30 lb top shots to switch out when needed.
Since you have only 500 to spend to fill out the rest of your setups, here's the bare minimum you would need for fishing the islands.
Get a 40 lb rod for the torium 30 to throw jigs and for heavier application. Only time I have ever used 40 lb test on a trip to Catalina or to the Coronados was to throw jigs. Everything else, I have used 20, 25, or 30 lb line. I prefer 9 ft or longer, but it does get harder to cast when longer. I would suggest a 8 ft rod for this. Calstar, Seeker, or Phenix all make excellent rod. I have been really liking the Phenix Abyss series rods. Phenix Abyss 809, Calstar 800H, Seeker 6480H would all work.
This would leave you with approximately 300 for a light setup. I agree with Tailchaser. You can find used Shimano Curado 300E's for around 150. Add a Teramar and should use up all your budget. Honestly, you don't have to go buy a lot of gear to fish the islands. I still prefer to use my old Newells vs the newer reels that are out. You can also use the Squidder on Seeker American Series A196-7' (10-15-25) as a 15 lb bait rod as well.