The size of the reel determines what weight rod to put it on. Weight can vary greatly by who manufactures it and how it is made.

2.75" diameter reel 0-3 weight line
3.00" diameter reel 2-4 weight line
3.25" diameter reel 3-5 weight line
3.50" diameter reel 5-7 weight line
3.75" diameter reel 7-9 weight line

This gives you an idea. The info came from a catalog I have. The amount of backing varies with each reel. The smaller a reel is of course the less it weighs (in the same model).

[This message has been edited by ridgeliner (edited 05 June 2006).]