Act unconventionally and get in on the spinning action.

At one time, conventional wisdom dictated that catching large game fish like marlin required a stout rod, heavy conventional reel—and usually a fighting chair. Back in the day, this made sense, due to the sheer weight of the tackle employed. However, with the lightweight carbon fiber composite rods and modern spinning reels used today, it’s a whole new ball game. As Scott Walker, co-star of the hit TV fishing show "Into the Blue" stated in an interview with West Marine, "We can use conventional, but given our choice, with the great new innovations from Shimano, standup with a spinning rod is about as good as it gets".

If you would like to get in on the heavy spinning action, West Marine offers an excellent selection of rod and reel combos which are ideal for catching a wide variety of big, hard-fighting fish. Choices includes medium- and heavy-action spinning rod and reel combos in lengths up to 10 feet for most any inshore, boat or surf fishing situation. Brands represented include Daiwa, Okuma, Penn, Shakespeare and Shimano.

Related: Deep Sea Fishing Gear Guide