[bearcat]

I have three 7000c3s. They are about as perfect as you can get for catfishing. I loaded them with 80 lb power pro. I have caught one fish that went 51 and lots of smaller ones. I have never been even closed to being spooled. The 10000 abu is much bigger than the 7000 to the point it is bulky and unhandy compared to the 7000. Since this is your first baitcaster I would really recomend the 7000 over the 10000. Now if money is no object get both.
JMHO