Thread: Swimbait Reels

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  1. #1
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    Swimbait Reels

    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?

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    #2
    Curado

  3. Ranger Boats Moderator 22RangerZ520R's Avatar
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    #3
    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.

  4. Member p2geo's Avatar
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    #4
    Curado 300E or 300DSV (same reel) the D can be found for cheaper.

    Diawa Lexa 300 is also a good option.
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  5. Moderator Mark Perry's Avatar
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    #5
    I use a Daiwa Ryoga Shrapnel

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    #6
    Thanks for the information

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    #7
    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

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    #8
    Curado 300/301E, Daiwa tatula HD, Shimano Cardiff, Abu revo toro NaCl 50/60, Shimano Conquest

  9. Member
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    #9
    Daiwa tatula hd, or shimano tranx

  10. BBC SPONSOR reelex's Avatar
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    #10
    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"

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    #11
    ^^^ Tranx all the way if your in the market for a low profile.

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    #12
    lews?
    You should know that in bee tending if you don't shut your trap the bees will get out.

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    #13
    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.

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    #14
    Tranx 300, with power handle.

  15. Moderator Fishysam's Avatar
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    #15
    Abu Garcia revo inshore gen 3 works well for me, has extended handle and 7.1/1 ratio.
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  16. Member
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    #16
    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.

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    #17
    Quote Originally Posted by Mark Perry View Post
    I use a Daiwa Ryoga Shrapnel
    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.

  18. Moderator Mark Perry's Avatar
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    #18
    Quote Originally Posted by Illymost View Post
    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.
    I love it. Casts well, feels great on retrieve, built like a tank. Its designed to handle the stress of big baits and big bass. Its paired on a Megabass U.S. Destroyer Onager.

  19. Member Capt Ray's Avatar
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    #19
    Quote Originally Posted by reelex View Post
    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
    Tranx gets my vote, that is one rugged reel.