Ladies and Gentleman,
I'm in love with my new Revo STX. A long time Shimano fan has changed sides to Abu Garcia. After months of pondering and hearing bashing after bashing on how this reel is a pain to cast, I got myself an STX. I fished it today and was BLOWN AWAY by the quality of the reel.
The things that I liked the most about this reel are:
1) I outcasts any Shimano I've ever fished with (including the Curado 200E) by at least 10 yards when casting light lures.
2) The retrieve is as smooth as I've ever felt.
3) The reel feels solid. No backplay in the handle. No play in the sideplate (Curado, Citica).
4) The drag .. oh my .. that drag
5) Casting is effortless. I'm used to cracking the whip when fishing centrifugal brakes on Shimanos in order to get max distance. With this reel, I outcast without having to put so much power into the cast. The spool tension was pretty tight (so that the rod tip had to be moved to make the lure drop) and the magnetics to about 25%.
6) Rollcasting and pitching is 100% easier.
Sorry if I wasted your time ... I just needed to get it off my chest ;D I'm in love!
PS.: Micro, I apologize for judging you .. you were right
Does it have a sister?
I'm always amazed at how many people struggle casting these great reels. A ton of very credible people on here always say it so it must be a real issue for some people. They all have more talent than me, but I have never been able to figure out how they were having difficulties. I'm glad you like it. Imo, when compared with the Shimano Curados and lower the Revo's SX and STX blow them out of the water. Can't speak for Shimano's above the Curado level though.
Had my revo STX for about 2 years now... i actually got it by returning a curado. But it is a great reel. I dont know if it is my favorite reel, its a close one between the revo and the zillion.
QuoteI'm in love!PS.: Micro, I apologize for judging you .. you were right
Let me tell you a thing or two about Daiwa Zillions....
They better be better b/c you are going to have to shell out another 70 bucks.
They are smoother. But better? Hmmm. I love those Zillions, but the STX is real hard to beat for $200.
QuoteHad my revo STX for about 2 years now... i actually got it by returning a curado. But it is a great reel. I dont know if it is my favorite reel, its a close one between the revo and the zillion.
co-sign.
I love the STX, but the SX is such a great reel I'm not even sure the STX is worth another 30 bucks. Best reason I can come up with is if you just really like silver better than black.
QuoteI love the STX, but the SX is such a great reel I'm not even sure the STX is worth another 30 bucks. Best reason I can come up with is if you just really like silver better than black.
x2
Don't doubt anyone's opinions, but I just couldn't tell. And I like black. Sxs' for me.
I have retired all of my Curados for Revos.
QuoteI'm always amazed at how many people struggle casting these great reels.
The magnetic drag is finicky and has poor "memory". I have resolved
the issue by making this reel a "dedicated" jig rig. This is a very
important component of my arsenal, but I would NEVER recommend
this reel when there are so much better options. The CH50MG is
being discontinued and is currently on sale for less than the STX.
The Shimano is a significantly superior reel at a better price.
QuoteQuoteI'm always amazed at how many people struggle casting these great reels.The magnetic drag is finicky and has poor "memory". I have resolved
the issue by making this reel a "dedicated" jig rig. This is a very
important component of my arsenal, but I would NEVER recommend
this reel when there are so much better options. The CH50MG is
being discontinued and is currently on sale for less than the STX.
The Shimano is a significantly superior reel at a better price.
RW, honest question. You have made this statement several times. Keeping in mind that I have very little experiance with worming and jigging, how does dedicating this reel to that type of fishing solve your problem. Just trying to catch on.
I have only owned the SX...and I was having trouble casting 1/4oz baits with it my first time out. I returned it after that, but you might get accustomed to it with more usage. The line capacity is what holds the Revo's back in casting lightweight baits; it's is the same thing that irritates me with the Zillions. It doesn't matter how light the spool is when it holds 145yds of line. Line is heavy! That is why the Mg50 casts lightweight baits so well....it only holds 85yds of 12lb line.
RW is more than just a little biased when it comes to Shimano.
QuoteRW is more than just a little biased when it comes to Shimano.
That never once crossed my mind. ;D
QuoteQuoteRW, honest question. You have made this statement several times. Keeping in mind that I have very little experience with worming and jigging, how does dedicating this reel to that type of fishing solve your problem. Just trying to catch on.Micro,
You're right and I came back to delete my post, but it was already
copied. I guess we're all bored tonight.
Regarding "dedicated": I fish 1/2 oz jigs + trailer ~ 3/4 oz. Heavy
lures have a dramatic effect on all aspects of a reel's casting
performance. With 3/4 oz, nothing is subtle.
Other impressions:
The STX is beautiful, solid and strong. Ergonomics are outstanding,
especially for palming the reel. I would like everything about the
reel if (when) Abu Garcia changes the braking system. As Mircro
has noted on other occasions, spending time working with the reel
will resolve problems for most fishermen. I just don't want to have
to fight with a reel or any of my equipment.
8-)
I'm glad you found your true love and I'm sure it's a very fine reel but, I must respectfully say BULL COCKA to your comparison with Shimano.
I'm another that's moved on to better equipment. The STX has a lot of great features and would still be on some of my rods (as well as the SX) if not for the achilles heel on that reel, the braking system.
I'm on the water to enjoy myself, not fiddle with a temperamental fishing reel.
Redesign the braking system and I'll be a Revo SX/STX customer again. Until then I've got a much better reel and for less.
RW, I might be dense (I've been told that once or twice), but I don't get it. Not the weight so much, buch do you find less of a problem with cast control because there is less casting involved? I mostly fish cranks and spinners, so jigging and such is relatively new grounds for me.
QuoteQuoteQuoteRW, honest question. You have made this statement several times. Keeping in mind that I have very little experiance with worming and jigging, how does dedicating this reel to that type of fishing solve your problem. Just trying to catch on.Micro,
You're right and I came back to delete my post, but it was already copied. I guesse we're all bored tonight.
Regarding "dedicated": I fish 1/2 oz jigs + trailer ~ 3/4 oz. Heavy lures have a dramatic effect on all aspects of a reel's casting performance. With 3/4 oz, nothing is subtle.
Other impressions:
The STX is beautiful, solid and strong. Ergonomics are outstanding, especially for palming the reel. I would like everything about the reel if (when) Abu Garcia changes the braking system. As Mircro has noted on other occasions, spending time working with the reel will resolve problems for most fishermen. I just don't want to have to fight with a reel or any of my equipment.
8-)
I can agree with that....even the Skeet Reese model with it's centrifugal brakes needs an upgrade. I had pretty much decided I wanted two of these reels before I took off the sideplate and saw Abu's version of centrifugal brakes. They just seemed cheap; and I'm mostly a Daiwa guy. I guess my 'homer' opinion is that I like centrifugal brakes in general, but if a reel has magnetic brakes....it better be Daiwa's Magforce V or Z.
Hmmm, I think they make a cream for that.
In a pinch, Shimano drag grease will suffice.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteRW, honest question. You have made this statement several times. Keeping in mind that I have very little experiance with worming and jigging, how does dedicating this reel to that type of fishing solve your problem. Just trying to catch on.Micro,
You're right and I came back to delete my post, but it was already copied. I guesse we're all bored tonight.
Regarding "dedicated": I fish 1/2 oz jigs + trailer ~ 3/4 oz. Heavy lures have a dramatic effect on all aspects of a reel's casting performance. With 3/4 oz, nothing is subtle.
Other impressions:
The STX is beautiful, solid and strong. Ergonomics are outstanding, especially for palming the reel. I would like everything about the reel if (when) Abu Garcia changes the braking system. As Mircro has noted on other occasions, spending time working with the reel will resolve problems for most fishermen. I just don't want to have to fight with a reel or any of my equipment.
8-)
I can agree with that....even the Skeet Reese model with it's centrifugal brakes needs an upgrade. I had pretty much decided I wanted two of these reels before I took off the sideplate and saw Abu's version of centrifugal brakes. They just seemed cheap; and I'm mostly a Daiwa guy. I guess my 'homer' opinion is that I like centrifugal brakes in general, but if a reel has magnetic brakes....it better be Daiwa's Magforce V or Z.
So the $200 + Skeet Reese reel is using those cheapo Revo S centrifugal brakes?
:
Amazing, Garcia has Pflueger as a partner in the Pure fishing empire, I don't understand why they're not going with the more tried and true Centrifugal braking system or even the mag brakes Pflueger uses on most of their reels. Those garcia brakes are chintzy. When you lock the the pins down they never really feel like they've locked into place.
I think there is not a reel out there that is better than another reel. There is a reel for everyone, that will suit one's style and preferences best. I just found mine.
"Solid feel" and castability of light lures (speedworms) are my priority. This reel does wonderfully at both those aspects.
With respect to the discussion about it not being user friendly .. I don't know if I agree. The first few casts felt "weird" and backlashed a couple of times. But once I figured out the settings, I fished it for 5 hours without a backlash. It didn't take me any longer to figure it out than the time it took me to figure out my Shimano reels.
The Chronarch MG50 are great reels (I've tried them but never owned one) and would do a great job wrt casting the lures I use most of the time. However, it just doesn't feel right in my hands. I don't know if it is the weight or the small handles ... I just don't feel it. Plus, I take my reels on an occasional saltwater trip, and they need to be able to handle 20-30 lb tarpon.
QuoteRW, I might be dense (I've been told that once or twice), but I don't get it. Not the weight so much, buch do you find less of a problem with cast control because there is less casting involved? I mostly fish cranks and spinners, so jigging and such is relatively new grounds for me.
Lure weight dramatically influences spool rotation, both initially and near the end of a cast. Heavier weights are generally easier to control.
8-)
QuoteAmazing, Garcia has Pflueger as a partner in the Pure fishing empire, I don't understand why they're not going with the more tried and true Centrifugal braking system or even the mag brakes Pflueger uses on most of their reels. Those garcia brakes are chintzy. When you lock the the pins down they never really feel like they've locked into place.
I agree. I own a Revo S and the centrifugals are horrible. That is one of the reasons why it doesn't get a spot in my boat anymore. It's been replaced by a Ci200E.
I've heard several speak of the cheap brakes on the s model, but has anyone ever had them give up the ghost. I haven't. :-/
BTW, I know this went a little off topic, but congrats on the luv bug hittin' ya!
Again guys I'm amazed. From the day that I started fishing my SX or STX I've set the brake where I could cast effciently. By effciently I mean 10-20 yards further than my Curado's and haven't touched them since. I respect RW and haved fished with The Natural and would consder both better than me, but can't figure out how they have trouble from these reels. I just don't understand how some guys can have such problems and it be just like anyother reel to others.
I think its more than just "its not as good" as "just different". I've always loved Chevy trucks, I bought a Ford. the longer I have it the more things I found I didn't like about the Chevy but some things I found I missed in the Ford.
the hard part is admitting each excel in different ways, and both are good products. Some will always refuse to do this. I fish both Shimano and Revo's and there are things Both lack and could gain from each other.
I feel that Abu has respectfully put out a reel that can not only hold its own against the mainstream low profile baitcasters but has actually gone up against the legend and still has a dog in the fight. although this may upset some people they still have to respond to posts like this reminding them that its is a viable topic. The real question is what Abu is going to do? are they going to continue with this technology and repackage it or will they advance it and fix their few short comings, Cheaper centrifugal brake, free spool over run causing high brake setting on the SX & STX equaling shorter casts? Will Shamano give us a little more for the cash? Throw in a handle with bearings? Take up the side play in the spool for a tighter feel or new color?
If both companies did all of this we would still have this discussion,Regardless of who is ahead and by how far, you must admit there still is a race.
QuoteAgain guys I'm amazed. From the day that I started fishing my SX or STX I've set the brake where I could cast effciently. By effciently I mean 10-20 yards further than my Curado's and haven't touched them since. I respect RW and haved fished with The Natural and would consder both better than me, but can't figure out how they have trouble from these reels. I just don't understand how some guys can have such problems and it be just like anyother reel to others.
The magnetic brakes were just touchy for me; I think like anything it is just a matter of getting used to them. I bought my first Shimano in '04...a Chronarch 100a, and even though I had used a baitcaster for years....the centrifugal brakes were new to me and I backlashed like a mofo. It took several all-day trips to the lake before I got mastered it. I didn't give my Revo that kind of time....
The Natural,
Thats what I can't believe from my experience(and I stress that). From the day I got my first SX I took about 20 minutes to find where it worked for me and set everyone since up the same way and have never looked back. I don't consider myself an expert and had no problem mastering these reels. Therefore, I'm preplexed when people more experienced than I have trouble.
QuoteThe Natural,Thats what I can't believe from my experience(and I stress that). From the day I got my first SX I took about 20 minutes to find where it worked for me and set everyone since up the same way and have never looked back. I don't consider myself an expert and had no problem mastering these reels. Therefore, I'm preplexed when people more experienced than I have trouble.
Well, you weren't backlashing much when we fished in that horrid wind, and I totally ruined one of my reels . I thought "Dam...I just met this dude and now I have the worst backlash in years". It was awesome. I think this proves what works for one may not work for another. There are plenty of folks who swear by the Revo's magnetic brakes. I probably gave up to early.
QuoteI think its more than just "its not as good" as "just different". I've always loved Chevy trucks, I bought a Ford. the longer I have it the more things I found I didn't like about the Chevy but some things I found I missed in the Ford.the hard part is admitting each excel in different ways, and both are good products. Some will always refuse to do this. I fish both Shimano and Revo's and there are things Both lack and could gain from each other.
I feel that Abu has respectfully put out a reel that can not only hold its own against the mainstream low profile baitcasters but has actually gone up against the legend and still has a dog in the fight. although this may upset some people they still have to respond to posts like this reminding them that its is a viable topic. The real question is what Abu is going to do? are they going to continue with this technology and repackage it or will they advance it and fix their few short comings, Cheaper centrifugal brake, free spool over run causing high brake setting on the SX & STX equaling shorter casts? Will Shamano give us a little more for the cash? Throw in a handle with bearings? Take up the side play in the spool for a tighter feel or new color?
If both companies did all of this we would still have this discussion,Regardless of who is ahead and by how far, you must admit there still is a race.
I've been a Garcia user for nearly 35 years but let's face it, up until the Revo, their selection of LP style reels has been a joke.
Garcia was one of the first with mag braking in the early 80's. Their system was in use on their LP reels for many years and the mag braking on the pfluegers and BPS line of reels is merely a variation of that same design. For some reason though, they failed to put it on these reels and instead, went with this linear mag brake.
That linear mag brake isn't new. It was previously used on the 4007LP, a reel that had only the mag brake AND NO SPOOL TENSION ADJUSTMENT! The spool tension was built into the linear mag brake assy. What a joke.
The point? If you're going to put out a REVOlutionary reel, go with the best you've got. If the reel is to have only mag braking then it better be good. The linear mag brake isn't.
I fished 2 tournaments last Aug/Sept that both turned out to be rather windy. I had also picked up a couple of Johnny Morris Sig reels to try out. Dual braking aside. The centrifugal braking on those reels was more reliable and consistent that the SX or STX's. Heck, even my Revo S reels were more consistant casters. (I still own 2 S reels) As the days went on I found myself wondering why I was messing with the SX and STX reels along with the overruns. It wasn't worth it.
I've since switched to Pflueger Patriarchs. The reels are nearly identical to SX or STX on the crankplate side, they're completely different on the palm side. Garcia should look to that reel to improve theirs.
Cart, you should have just learned to cast your Revo, like almost everyone else has. "Advancing" their technology to adopt the brake system in the Pfluegers or BPS reels will might mean fewer backlashes for the un-practiced, but it will mean less performance, too.
Speedworm, you went from a Revo S to a Citica 200E because of the brake? Have you opened the Citica and looked at the brake?
QuoteCart, you should have just learned to cast your Revo, like almost everyone else has. "Advancing" their technology to adopt the brake system in the Pfluegers or BPS reels will might mean fewer backlashes for the un-practiced, but it will mean less performance, too.Speedworm, you went from a Revo S to a Citica 200E because of the brake? Have you opened the Citica and looked at the brake?
That was probably the main reason. Adjusting the centrifugals in my Revo S is a horrible pain. They don't click as easily as the Citica brakes do. However, the solid feel that the S has the Citica misses. I asked Bantam a while ago about the sideplate play and he told my I was crazy .. there is no play. But I can feel it! It takes a 5 lb fish to make the reel feel like it's going to come apart in my hands.
I will most likely end up selling this Citica 200E that I've only had for a few months and getting a new STX. 50 dollars, any takers?
I have been fishing with casting reels for over 50 years. Once I get the brakes set where I want them I never touch them again, all of the fine tuning is done with the tension knob for the spool. I have never used a casting reel I could not master. I own as many Curados as I do Revos, but I have not used the Curados since I started to use the Revos. By the way, I liked the 100 Curado much better than the 200.