Dual use fixed spool

[Hagar the Horrible]

hi

i currently use an ABU sports mag with a 11' 8" old Paul Kerry beachcaster , but I
get a bit nervous using the multiplier in darkness in case of overruns and tend to shorten my casts as a result. I'm thinking about getting a fixed spool as a back up in case of birds nest, or maybe even to switch over to once dark so I can just blast it out.
As I would still be using the beachcaster that's ringed for a multiplier does anyone know if I would lose much distance with the fixed spool?
Also I'm looking for something light enough that I could use for plugging as well. Would a shimano Aerlex 7000 GT do both jobs or is there anything else anyone could recommend?
I'm always worried about getting something that fulfills two uses as it often means that it does neither properly.

thanks

[paul mason]

You could try the aerlex 7000 but its a bit big for spinning, but then it depends what you ar spinning for if your chucking out a set of feathers with a 4oz lead fine but i would not be great for the lighter stuff like plugs and spinners.
I think your best bet is two reels they are not that expensive now.
Using a fixedspool reel with a multi rod should be no problem once you get a reel with a narrow spool like the aerlex 7000 there wont be any noticeable decrease in you casting distance. I have been using one for years and not a bother and have cast over 230yds with a multi-fixedspool in practice.