I'd like to get in to fishing for shark off the Texas coast. What would be some basic tackle I'd need, without busting my budget? I guess the basic rod/reel combo (keping in mind I prefer spinning reels) and line strenght. My guess for line would be at least 80# braid!? I take any good suggestions.

I am not in a hurry to get that gear together, but am looking for some basics so that I can start filling the "hole".

Thanks in advance.

I use Quantum rods and reels. So with that said, I'd use a Cabo 80 spinning reel with an offshore Boca rod m/h or heavy. 80lb braid is good. Use wire leader or fluorcarbon 80-100 lb test. As for hooks, I'd use something in the 10/0 or better. Don't forget your terminal tackle, barrel swivels, snap swivels etc, etc...in the 100lb class. Also, chum...and plenty of it. Tail rope, hook remover. As you can see, there's lots of equipment that goes in to this. If this is your first time shark fishing, try to bring someone who has experience in shark fishing. There's lots to do, and it has to be done right so yourself, crew and shark don't get hurt. Google "shark fish equipment". Good luck!

A 4/0 Penn to 9/0 are good reels, a short stout stand up rod 6' range, preferably with rollers instead of regular guides. I use 65 lb braid minimum, and have landed sharks well over 300# with it. Our barrel swivels are rated for 300 to 475 Lbs, the wire we use is rated 200# single twist wire, with 16/0 to 20/0 circle hooks. Or we will use 12/0 long shank J hooks. A tail rope is a must, a dehooker tool (long preferably). Make the leaders no less than 4 feet long, very large sharks will swallow your'e leaders whole, even 6' lengths, been there done that. The biggest piece of advise i can give you, do NOT shark fish alone, and take an experienced shark angler with you if possible. This is a fish that can easily kill you, or dismember you if you make a mistake!

Depending on the size shark you are willing to go after. I use a 18" steel leader with either a 6/0 or a 5/0 hook and about 30 -50 lb line. Granted I have yet to snag the big one that snatched 4 of my leaders, but i have managed to bring in 30 to 40 lb sharks just off of mackerel. I have a 10 ft surf rod that is good to use and a penn defiance reel and a 6 ft penn rod good and strong.