Captain Shawn uses light spining gear, spooled with light braided line. For redfish and trout you will use a light, fast rod with 8 to 10 pound test. When you're snook and tarpon fishing, you will use a medium rod with 15 to 20 pound test. Captain Shawn dose use bait casters, so if you prefer them you will need to bring your own. But keep in mind you will need to make long casts with light baits. Captain Shawn fishs with only the best including Castaway Rods, and his very own custom rods built just for him. Shimano and Diawa reels spooled with light Power Pro braided line. He uses artificial and live baits depending on the species you are fishing for. When fishing with Captain Shawn all your licenses, gear, ice, and tackle are provided. If you have a favorite rod and reel, feel free to bring it, just let him know ahead of time to make space for it. Otherwise, the only things you need to bring are your drinks and your lunch for the day. A good pair of polarized glasses is also key when sight fishing. Below is some of the products that I use every day on the trips.