I am just getting into swimbait fishing and I have quickly found out my 100 series reels aren't quite enough to handle those 6-10" swimbaits. What is a good all around swimbait reel that won't absolutely break the bank?
I am just getting into swimbait fishing and I have quickly found out my 100 series reels aren't quite enough to handle those 6-10" swimbaits. What is a good all around swimbait reel that won't absolutely break the bank?
Curado
Spend the money and get a Calcutta 400D. I have 4 of them for my "big bait" fishing... I love them, they're smooth and powerful and hold a bunch of heavy line (which is important as far as spooling yourself on a long cast and retrieval speed/gear ratio of reel which Bill explains in his video...). Also, they've redesigned the frame so the 400 size is smaller in your hand / easier to "palm". Matt Peters from Southern Trout Eaters also explains very well why you need a bigger/beefier reel for throwing the big baits.
Spend the time and watch both videos and you can thank me later......
And you being from Cali, you will find out quickly that all the guys out west use the Calcutta's to throw the big baits.
Last edited by 22RangerZ520R; 12-12-2017 at 08:51 AM.
Curado 300E or 300DSV (same reel) the D can be found for cheaper.
Diawa Lexa 300 is also a good option.
2008 Stratos 294 XL
2008 Evinrude etec 200 HP H.O.
I use a Daiwa Ryoga Shrapnel
Thanks for the information
Calcutta 300d is a fast retrieve reel...look at the ipt it's like 30 where the older 400b and 400te are 26". That's the reason most guys dont use the 300d, I have one but it is for a topwater rod
Curado 300/301E, Daiwa tatula HD, Shimano Cardiff, Abu revo toro NaCl 50/60, Shimano Conquest
Daiwa tatula hd, or shimano tranx
Tranx 300 or 400. I try and steer folks away from the TE line these days as parts are getting harder and harder to find, especially gears. Calcutta D is the other option, but they can be a bit more pricey. Dan
" Serious Service for the Serious Angler"
^^^ Tranx all the way if your in the market for a low profile.
lews?
You should know that in bee tending if you don't shut your trap the bees will get out.
Lews Super Duty wide spool is what I use but the biggest baits I throw are 8" and maybe 3ish oz. I used to use a 300D but it just felt too big.
Tranx 300, with power handle.
Abu Garcia revo inshore gen 3 works well for me, has extended handle and 7.1/1 ratio.
Mercury 250 proxs 2B115089
How does that thing cast. I’ve heard mixed reviews. I don’t fish bigger than a 3 oz swimbait. I’m looking to replace an old Catala.