I use a recurve as well. And agree with Fishhunter, use nogluvs they will save your fingers. I have 2 different reel set ups; 1 is a Zebco 808 closed bail reel (works fine for smaller fish, but not real good for monsters), and 2 is the retriever which is good for big fish just does not reel as fast as the Zebco. Definately check your regs as stated all states handle this issue differently. Good luck, and welcome to the addiction!!!!!