The Calcutta 251 is on the small side for 25lb test. You could probably get away with 20lb test on it. With a smaller spool, the spool gets to spinning really fast when you cast a big lure and it can get awkward and just kind of funky when you only have half the spool left at the end of the cast.

A Cardiff 301 could be a good option for you to get left handed retrieve on a 25lb test reel that is reasonably priced.

For rods, check out the rod reviews if you haven't already:
http://www.calfishing.com/reviews/rods/index.html

Good all arounder type rods would be the Rainshadow SW976, Gloomis BBR964C, or Rogue Rods SB807C. I got a chuckle when I looked at Rogue Rod's site just now because they link over here in their product review section, but I couldn't get a demo rod for the review page from them :) In any case, their rods are nice and I can understand people not wanting to send out demos.

As far as catching swimbait fish on spot lakes, possible but not a percentage thing. If you put in the hours on Berryessa, Shasta, McClure, Oroville, etc you'll get something eventually, but the odds of sticking one in a tournament are kinda slim. That's been what I've heard anyway. If you just want to catch a big one at one of those lakes, then fire away. If it was me trying to get one, I'd be there with the MS Slammer at night fishing the most obvious spots in the lakes like major points and big trees.