Spinning vs Casting

I'm thinking I should get a new rod for doing rock fishing, but I have only really been using spinning rods, and never tried a casting rod/reel before.  From what I have gathered in reading the pages and pages of suggestions people have given other people is that the Shimano Trevala is a very good choice.  Another decent looking rod seems to be the Shakespeare Tiger rods.  My only issue is that I wanted to get a two-piece so I can easily stow the rod inside the hull of the yak should surf become an issue getting back to beach.  It seems that none of the spinning rods in the size and type I have looked at come in two piece.  (Yes, I know two piece is not as strong).  But I do see a few choices in the casting rod category that are two piece, correct length and action that I believe I want. 

So, the question is, since I have never used a casting reel, should I take the leap?  Or go for a one piece spinner that would also work, but not break down, and may get launched overboard in the surf.  Btw, the two piece Trevala's separate at the handle from the rod, not in the middle of the rod like most I have seen.  So I would argue that its a fairly strong setup either way.  Because of where it breaks down I am not certain I can stow it as easily, but figure that without the handle I can probably bend it enough to fit inside the hatch between my legs.

Go for the baitcaster.Rockfishing is mostly short casts if any,with a vertical presentation.

Depending on how you want to do your rock fishing you might actually want what is known as a "conventional reel".

A good inexpensive choice would be an Ugly stick tiger rod with something like a Penn Jigmaster, Penn gti320 or similar for a reel.  This is a good choice if you plan to bounce a lot of heavy jigs on the bottom.  New this setup is about $100-$170 and it's what you usually find on rockfishing charters.  They're pretty common and you might be able to pick one up at a flea market or yard sale.

Another option is a baitcasting reel like a Shimano Calcutta or an Abu.  Personally I like the Shimano Cardiffs which are similar to the Calcuttas but not as expensive.  You would want to match this up with a medium-heavy fast action casting rod about 7'6" or so..  The Shimano Clarus is a decent fairly inexpensive line to look at.   These are great for casting swimbaits and other moderatly light lures (< 2 oz) towards places that look fishy but you can't quite get to with your kayak.

I usually take a bait casting setup as well as a conventional setup when I go rockfishing.  You have to be sure to only use one at a time due to the regs.

Also, I don't have any problem stowing full one-piece rods inside my kayak.

Go for the baitcaster.Rockfishing is mostly short casts if any,with a vertical presentation.

I second that There's also less line twist with the baitcaster 

I third the Baitcast setup, while a spinning setup would work they are not as durable and much heaver. The spinning reel would not hold up well getting banged around in the Kayak so in the long run would be much more costly. The only advantages a spinning setup would have is a faster drop,no birdnests and are easier to master. if you are not willing to devote practice time get a spinning setup. Once you get a fish on the baitcaster wins hands down. line twist is a bummer. 

Hopefully this isn't considered a highjack...

When considering the type of fishing that we typically do here (halibut, RF, salmon, striper, etc...) what is a general guideline as to when you should use a baitcaster vs. a conventional?  I've heard that casting further is easier on a conventional because of the lack of level wind...but I'm not so sure that would come into play too much with kayak fishing.
What other advantage/disadvantages are there when considering one over the other?

I've only ever used a conventional reel once but now that I've bought a couple I'm going to have to train my thumb to lay the line flat while reeling in.

baitcaster vs. a conventional?

   Basically the same thing Baitcaster is just a name for the smaller (freshwater) type of conventional reel like the Calcutta or Abu. Levelwinds have evolved so they stay stationary during the cast so don't effect casting in fishing situations much. Go with the levelwind unless fishing for Pelagic or large saltwater fish. Out of a kayak you can only put minimal pressure anyway.

The main point here is that for saltwater fishing, a conventional type reel makes the most sense, because of the technique we use for oour norcal fish.  Salmon, rockfish, halibut all suggest a vertical presentation with little or no casting.

(When I fish for stripers, I bring a spinning setup for casting)

Level wind or open face makes no real difference except you might avoid those ugly bumps that i get on my Penn 500 when i forget to guide the line onto the reel.
Allen

For the ocean; baitcaster hands down.

Started this thread almost 2 months ago.  I finally have decided, after much thought and searching, that I love the Shimano Trevala.  Although against advice, I still want the two piece 6'6" med/fast.  So I went to pickup one today from Melcottons, but they don't have one in stock.  I know I can probably get it at Fishermans Warehouse or Cabelas, but was looking to use the 20% off coupon for Mel's. 

SO I went ahead and picked up a reel for it.  I went for the cheaper line of Shimano's, Cardiff  401A (lefty), but only choose it over the 300 because of the clicker.  But I think the 300 "looks" better, smaller with a lower profile, but no clicker and less spool.  I'm not sure I need the clicker (or more line), but sounded like it was a good idea for trolling.  Mel's even give's a free spool of Mono with the purchase, but will also offer 50% off braid.  I cant shake a stick at the price, but still not sure I made the right choice. 

I'll drop by FW to see if they still have the rod I wanted, try mounting it and see how it feels I guess.  Either way, this beats any gear I have bought before now, hands down.

Thanks for the tips!