What rod and reel for bottom bashing?

Are you in shape? If not get the big rod! Your gonna need a little extra help to pull in those bigger fish! Now, if you want a fun fight and don't think you will become exhausted in the middle of your fishing trip, go ahead and purchase the lighter gear. Personally, when I go fishing for cats, I want a big fight so I bring my lighter gear. As for the reel, I think that the larger sized Saragosa 18000 would be a better choice primarily because of the depths you will be fishing at. You will want to be sure that you have plenty of line to let the fish run and tire themselves out. Good luck out there!