I haven't bought a new reel in 30 years. A little confused by all the technology and jargon. I'm looking for an ultra light and a medium-light spinning reel for fresh water. What are the must-have features. $200 budget for each.
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by fumblin_bumblin_man
Let me preface by saying I understand all the nerdy tech specs do mean something, but I also believe there’s tons of marketing that goes into it as well. It’s a spinning reel... I don’t really care about much besides the stuff that should be familiar to you from 30 years ago, when people were still catching plenty of fish.
The Shimano Stradic is very nice and just over $200. They’re light, strong, and smooth. However, I don’t get the same return per dollar on spinning gear like I get from casting gear - totally my perception, not science. I love my Daiwa Fuego ($99) and my Abu Revo X ($129) as much as any spinning reel tbh. But you’ll never catch me spending less than $250 for a baitcaster most likely. I would totally recommend putting more dollars into your spinning rod than the reel, again just my opinion, ymmv.
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by pjread
You're absolutely right. There's no technology involved in casting a spinning reel since the reel itself is static. Unlike a casting reel.
However, a smooth drag and bail mechanism are important to me. As is build quality. Just wasnt sure about all the new jargon.
I have two good St. Croix rods but the reels don't match well. Too heavy on the medium rod and the ultralight (old Daiwa) has a super annoying click on the anti reverse.
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by fumblin_bumblin_man
Go with daiwa, shimano cuts corners until the 300 dollar+ range.
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by bigchungusmode99
h man
Loc: staten island ny
go to wish .com type in fishing reels thetrouble with shimano is they only make a few spare parts then your screwd ina couple of years
There's a couple of spinning reels that have the bait runner feature. I really like this for catfishing. When you engage the bait runner, it has a drag system of it's own, you can set the drag as light as the current will allow. and it has clicker on it so you know when a fish has picked up your bait. It's a good system with using circle hooks. Just caught (5) nice cats yesterday using this system.
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