FS Digest

Let me know if I'm way off base here.

I'm looking to get a new reel. I am wondering if using a larger reel (rated for 7-9 wt) would affect casting/usability if my line and rod weight are the same (5wt)? I love the look of larger arbor reels/larger reels in general, and the ability to hold extra backing that I'll likely never use, but wouldn't want to sacrifice functionality over something purely cosmetic.

Further, currently trying to decide between an Orvis Clearwater Large arbor and Battenkill II (non-disc). Any big differences between the two? I'm leaning toward the Clearwater (like the look + lower price) but am wondering if the battenkill offers anything notable for the extra ~$25 aside from the casted vs machined aspect.

Thanks.

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by Twarrior913

FS Digest

I think the reel weight and ultimately the balance is what I think you should put the focus on. Honestly the reel size doesn’t matter to me if it balances right.

Im not sure of the exact weight of the battenkill but it should be heavier with less holes. So you may run into issues this way.

Personally I haven’t felt noticeable difference from casted to machine reels besides cnc reels tend to look nicer. Unless their forged, cnc or casted reels don’t make a huge difference. The cost is in the machining cost I feel. There are great casted reels like the lamson liquid or redington zero that hasn’t received significant durability issues posted online

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by g2gfmx

FS Digest

Thanks for your response. I'll look into the balance of the reel with my new rod.

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by Twarrior913

FS Digest

I put a 6-8wt reel on my 6, which is a pretty big jump in size from my old 4-6wt reel. I wanted to be able to pick up more line quicker with a bigger reel and better drag. I didn’t really notice a difference in balance. If you notice a difference then you’ll just make the adjustments in hand position. I’d say go for it if you want it, it’s about what you want to use not what anyone else says.

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by MochileroTN

FS Digest

More backing, obvi. Then more line in per rotation. I find that balance in an outfit it’s just a matter of habit once you get used to it it doesn’t matter as much until the end of the day when you may have more fatigue with the outfit that is heavier or less well balanced. Remember also that more recovery per rotation changes the way your drag works. In some cases that drag change will be beneficial and in other situations potentially a problem. For trout anglers you often have a small reel and a big hot fish

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by whipfinish

Egghead

You asked a question that has a bunch of answers. Personally I like smaller and lighter gear. But also like cool looking stuff too. Lol you can go with the bigger cool looking reel and load it with the same amount of line you would use on the smaller one and wouldn't gain very much more weight. By the end of the day, ounces matter. The higher end reels are usually lighter due to the material used. Go with what makes you smile.then you'll be happy.🤗

4525brickyard Loc: Manlius, New York

Hey there... I’m not a big fan of the Battenkill drag system. Having used a Battenkill V on bonefish, permit and salmon, I find it to be sticky and jumpy if that makes sense. I have a couple of Clearwater reels and find the drag to be smoother. Then you struggle with what looks cooler... all machined reels look cooler... in the picture with the fish. But having a superior drag system, to me, is more important and will produce more moments of pictures with fish in hand! What a conundrum !!!

greyghost

I always use a reel that is one or two sizes bigger than the recommended, as long as it has a large arbor or is a narrow spool reel. Those tiny reels for 2 to 4 or even 5 wt lines just take too long to crank in. For steelhead, bonefish, tarpon, or tuna etc. a drag can be important, but for most freshwater fish a good click and a palming rim is really all you need, and is more fun. I have taken wild browns up to 27" and a ten pound rainbow that way, and very few things beat the sound of that click buzzing. And for $25 go for the machined bar stock, although there is not much wrong with today's cast reels, as long as they are finished by machining. 76 years and still fishing. Have fun!