Now that the hot weather has set in, I have decided to start learning how to fish with a Carolina Rig. I would like some advice on a practical reel for this set up. I want to use 20# fluorocarbon.

I say fast as possible. Since you only use the reel for picking of slack...
Revo STX for me.

I prefer a 7:1. But you may want to wait for the Revo Rocket. It is a 9:1 ratio. Ive used one and it will take up that slack line in a hurry!

Shimano Calias without a doubt! Don't let anyone fool you, a super smooth reel and a tungsten weight are invaluable on a carolina rig. anyone that thinks a reel is "just for takin up slack" is missing out.

since I fish crigs pretty deep this time of yr I use a garcia 6300c3/50# braid to the weight/swivel then 15# big game for the rig, sits on a 7'6" bass pro tourney rod heavy action.

plenty fast and holds a lot of line so I don't worry about having a skinny spool when I hood a bigun.

a lot of the time I am dragging a crig just letting the wind push me real slow so no slack to take up, this is normally in over 20' of water this time of yr.

i use a revo stx high speed. you want a reel with a good line capicty for long casts and high speed for taking up slack quickley.

Academy H2O Mettle. Inexpensive, Durable, LIGHTWEIGHT, Highspeed. Been using them for years. The lightweight consideration is very important when you use a long rod so it does not wear you out.

Whatever reel you are using now and like will be your best bet. Really!

Just get a fast reel, any will do. The main deal is a long rod of good quality. If you can't feel the bite, you can't reel in the fish.

you will need a fast reel and long rod to take up slack to set hook. a fast tip will help to feel the bite. A lot of back bone on rod so you can set the hook when the bait is so deep and far away. I like a dobyns 804, and 7:1 Shimano Chronach reel. I will agree with above you need a good rod more then a good reel my.02

I have a 15 year old Shimano Calcutta that I use that will cast halfway across the lake. I would not trade this reel for anything. The reel is big enough to handle the 3/4 and 1 oz weights and never give you any troubles. I buy for long lasting trouble free.

curado 200dhsv

What ever set up is comfortable then start to hone in on performance .

Your favorite heavy jig rod can usually double as a good c-rig rod, and vise-versa. A fast reel that casts well and a 7 ft, or more, heavy action rod will do fine.

Whatever reel you choose. Get at least a 7:1 ratio. And, at least a 7' rod MH or H. To move line. I use braid for my main line. Very sensitive and no stretch. I like using 15#-17# green Big Game Mono. I like my baits to float up.