Lew's Durrability 2024
Capt.Bob reply :
Lew's is no fad, they are here to stay!!, and the big two, speaking of Diawa and Shimano better take heed! I have given these reels over a year and a couple I have beat the livin crap out of in big rivers, mud sand snags big fish in fast water, Buffalo Carp to 20 lbs. and medium Cat's to 12 or 15 lbs. not to mention the 100's of walleye and smallmouth. I am confident I can make an honest evaluation on at least the cheapest model I own,,, the Tournament, (TS1H).
I have been about a year and a half since my first Lew's reel, a Tournament. I sold all my Shimanos a year ago and have been 100% Lew's since. After a year of fishing the Tournament in river's and Streams mainly, I have been pounding it daily again this spring in the Largest tributary in all the great lake for a second season. I am very impressed the way this reel has held up, not one hitch. I throw literately 100's of cast a day with it and a new BB1, with the Tournament getting the bulk of the use. This a great test because the river is at or near flood stage every day, and with the boulder and timber flooded bottom it takes a toll when throwing 3/4 to 1oz. weights to keep your jigs on the bottom where the fish are, and you have to throw relatively heavier than needed to slow there travel through the extremely turbid and fast current, so the fish have time to react in the murky water. This puts bolting stops on the gears and anti reverse system, and with 20 lbs. test braid and 15 to 20 lbs. test leaders its like stopping a cable driven winch instantly. I have seen and used many many reels over the 40 years I have fish this extreme fishing finomina, very few are built to withstand a full season under these conditions, but I will assure you these Lew's reels are built to last. The Tournament has been my test reel, I have only torn it down flushed and lubed it once, when it first came. It is as smooth as the day I got it, and still cast farther than any spinning reels being used around me. If I don't catch a limb or brush behind me,(which happens often when wade fishing a flooded river) no backlashes, even when tossing as hard as I can to reach a distant spot that hasn't been covered. I opened it up last night finally and all I did, even after being submerged in the murky river at times, is wipe it off, add one drop of oil to three spool bearing's and buttoned it back up.
Now I am not saying other reels I have had wouldn't hold up, but I am saying they would not perform as well doing it! My Curado with it's anemic drag would never stop an 8 lbs Walleye in some of the turbid waters the Lew's did easily. Even the might Calcutta 200GTB I am so fond of would have required a lot of help from my thumb to turn that big Buffalo that was snagged in the tail, the Lew's did it with drag power to spare, a quick few clicks on the drag star and he was tamed! So this is why 2 more Team Golds are on the way to be delivered tomorrow, and my beloved Calcutta is going to auction to be replaced by the BB1, which is my favorite of all for throwing heavy gear, and will assure you, this reel will handle enough line and have the balls to fish for and tame Pike and Musky, it will as the others tame any freshwater species in any water way.
I am usually anal in my shopping for gear, and I would after owning nothing but Shimanos for years Spin, low profile, and round baitcaster's included, because they have in the past held up the best in these conditions. But when I decided to change I looked hard and long.before deciding to try the Lew's. I am so happy with these reels I am selling my 200GTB in favor of the BB1. I now own 1-Team, 1-Team Gold, 1-Tounament Pro, 1-BB1, and 1-Tournament. I will have a 6.4-1 and a 7.1-1 Team Gold delivered tomorrow, because after over a year with the reels mentioned some used severely, and some used lightly, have had not one single complaint, or one single hiccup from any of them. They have displayed there strength by landing 20+lbs. Buffalo Carp in turbid flood stage rivers, and the drags and power of the gearing are as good as any reel I have ever owned, and superior to my beloved 200GTB, which cant compare to the stopping power of the Lew's drag. Sorry to say that those that have the idea there the same as the other reels that the company that produces these reels make, it ain't so! The guy's that own those other reels and have fish around and with me have all agreed, there is a difference, and they see and feel it, not one has failed to be surprised. These reels are for "REEL" and thats no pun!!
TNBassin' reply :
Cool story bro.
down4ttown reply :
I have two Team Lew's, Two Shimano's(Chronarch 200E, Curado 50E), and three Revos Gen 3. All have their strengths and weaknesses. I pitch with my lews, use my revos for misc, and use my shimanos for spinners and cranks. Love them all. Never bought into the whole brand specific fad. I use what is on sale that is of good quality. That is about the only way I can keep up ha ha.
roadwarrior reply :
WOW!
That is one heck of a testimonial.
iabass8 reply :
ha. Beat me to it.On 4/24/2013 at 1:34 AM, TNBassin said:Cool story bro.
flyfisher reply :
Congrats on your new sponsorship with Lew's..........that was an infomercial, right?
Rangerjoe reply :
Built in the same factory as the Revo and BPS, by the same people, with many of the same parts yet Lews are light years ahead. Ya
*Hootie reply :
There's always at least one.......ho hum.....
Great review Capt. Bob.
Hootie
Capt.Bob reply :
On 4/24/2013 at 3:54 AM, hootiebenji said:There's always at least one.......ho hum.....
Great review Capt. Bob.
Hootie
Thanks all!!,,,,,and I agree Hootie, always one, probably never owned either and definitely never owned both or would no that statement mean squat, as they would be educated enough after a year to see the definite difference, and definitely don't have a clue what specs and tolerances are, and aint willing to spend the time to discover the difference. But have infinite wisdom in there the same cause,,,,,, they came from the same manufacturer??? Shimano uses the same size spool bearings (all 3) as the Lews, the abec 7's in SS I purchased and installed, helped my Calcutta, put em in the Lews and saw no gain! those who know just cause parts interchange, or will fit don't mean there the same!! Napa sells starter's that fit you chevy for a couple different prices, they both do the same thing but one is half again as much and has a much better warranty, trust me,,,,,,,they aint the same!!!! Tolerances are another thing that many manufacturers change depending on what each buyer requires, yes the quality of the material and tolerances you are willing to pay for will determine the difference, and I can assure you Lew's is willing to pay for that climb to the top, but if your not willing to investigate the difference let your eyes do the shopping. Like I have been told, time will tell!!
down4ttown reply :
Everyone has their favorites. I love any of the big three (abu, shimano, lews). I do not have any of the Big D's because I can not afford the higher ends.
ColdSVT reply :
On 4/24/2013 at 2:02 AM, Rangerjoe said:Built in the same factory as the Revo and BPS, by the same people, with many of the same parts yet Lews are light years ahead. Ya
I suggest you quit making sense asap lol
thehooligan reply :
I had a lews tourney pro and thought it was a great reel, but after ive had shimanos and daiwas in my hand theres no going back....
Nice review though 
Bluebasser86 reply :
I have one of the Lew's speed spools and really like it. It was kind of finicky at first getting it set but since I got it set right it's been great. The thing is smooth and casts a mile. Mainly use mine for spinnerbaits and buzzbaits along with bigger topwater walking baits. Only complaint is the goofy flat paddles on the handles, I've lost count of how many times I've lost my grip on the reel handles when a fish bites or I've just had a hard time getting a retrieve started because they are hard to get a grip on.
*Hootie reply :
On 4/24/2013 at 6:58 AM, ColdSVT said:I suggest you quit making sense asap lol
I was wrong Capt. Bob. There's two......lol
Hootie
Rangerjoe reply :
I had two of the Tournament Pro's and numerous Gen 1, 2 and 3 Revo's. The only one I have keep is a is a Gen 3 STX. I really have no dog in this fight, so all the Patch Pirates can keep drinking the Kool-Aid.
stkbassn reply :
All my first Lews did was backlash every time I threw it....my Curados and Citicas won't backlash unless I do something dumb, which I do! ha.
How do you set the thing up not to do so?
I really liked the Lews as far as weight and feel....I don't know that I like it more than my Shimanos but they are nice for sure.....My Curados and Citica E's are pretty darn sweet and I like them. My Revo S is great too.
rippin-lips reply :
On 4/24/2013 at 9:35 PM, stkbassn said:All my first Lews did was backlash every time I threw it....my Curados and Citicas won't backlash unless I do something dumb, which I do! ha.
It sounds to me you've kinda answered your own question. Maybe the Shimano's and Abu's are more user friendly for someone who is still learning. I don't know your level of experience with casting gear so this is just a guess.
Fishwhittler reply :
Magnetic brakes are harder to master, period. Some are better than others such as Daiwa's mag brakes, but centrifugal brakes are always simpler to use because of the way they work. Centrifugal brakes are most effective when the spool is spinning at high speed—magnetic brakes have the most effect later in the cast. Unfortunately, the beginning of the cast is when most backlashes happen because that's when the spool is rotating most quickly. That's why magnetic brakes are harder to learn, especially if you're not used to baitcasters.
You can't try to catapult the lure into orbit with mag-brake reels. You'll just end up with a backlash that resembles an eagle's eyrie. Set your spool tension so the spool just barely doesn't move back and forth, and then try casting with an easy motion. Start with the brakes on full and back them off until you find the place that gives you the best balance of control and distance.
One other thing: Braided line will help tame magnetic brakes. I highly recommend braid if you're learning a baitcaster, especially if you're learning on a reel with magnetic brakes only. Just remember to use mono or tape backing to keep the braid from slipping.
down4ttown reply :
I have had zero problem with my lew's and backlashing. In fact, I rarely backlash unless it is my fault. I use curados, chronarchs, both team lews, and revos.
DINK WHISPERER reply :
I decided to try a couple of the Lews Tournament Pro after all the good reviews about the company. Since they are now made by the same people as my Abu reels i figured why not. Put it up against my favorite, the G3 Revo STX for heavy duty flippin, punching & frogging. NO WAY it is better in any one category. Especially the stopping power mentioned before. The Lews is definately a smooth reel and casts just as far but it has nothing on the strength of the Revo line. I liked mine a lot but wouldn't consider trading my Revos for them. Ended up selling them to a buddy who uses all Lews. So you are correct OP, just because they are made by the same people in the same factory they are NOT the same....
down4ttown reply :
On 4/25/2013 at 4:39 AM, DINK WHISPERER said:I decided to try a couple of the Lews Tournament Pro after all the good reviews about the company. Since they are now made by the same people as my Abu reels i figured why not. Put it up against my favorite, the G3 Revo STX for heavy duty flippin, punching & frogging. NO WAY it is better in any one category. Especially the stopping power mentioned before. The Lews is definately a smooth reel and casts just as far but it has nothing on the strength of the Revo line. I liked mine a lot but wouldn't consider trading my Revos for them. Ended up selling them to a buddy who uses all Lews. So you are correct OP, just because they are made by the same people in the same factory they are NOT the same....
I have the Gen 3 Revo STX and it is a nice reel, but is no way as good to me as a Lew's TP or Team Lew's reel. I guess it is all opinion and nothing more.
DINK WHISPERER reply :
On 4/25/2013 at 5:02 AM, down4ttown said:I have the Gen 3 Revo STX and it is a nice reel, but is no way as good to me as a Lew's TP or Team Lew's reel. I guess it is all opinion and nothing more.
That is mostly what it boils down to. But the strength/drag of a reel can actually be proved with testing. That was the main deciding factor for me since i use mine for some heavy duty cover here in FL. The Lews drag slipped on me many a time while punching. The Revos have yet to do it...
down4ttown reply :
On 4/25/2013 at 5:15 AM, DINK WHISPERER said:That is mostly what it boils down to. But the strength/drag of a reel can actually be proved with testing. That was the main deciding factor for me since i use mine for some heavy duty cover here in FL. The Lews drag slipped on me many a time while punching. The Revos have yet to do it...
I will give you that. The Revos drag is obscenely high compared to the Shimano and Lew's counterparts.
stkbassn reply :
On 4/25/2013 at 3:40 AM, Fishwhittler said:Magnetic brakes are harder to master, period. Some are better than others such as Daiwa's mag brakes, but centrifugal brakes are always simpler to use because of the way they work. Centrifugal brakes are most effective when the spool is spinning at high speed—magnetic brakes have the most effect later in the cast. Unfortunately, the beginning of the cast is when most backlashes happen because that's when the spool is rotating most quickly. That's why magnetic brakes are harder to learn, especially if you're not used to baitcasters.
You can't try to catapult the lure into orbit with mag-brake reels. You'll just end up with a backlash that resembles an eagle's eyrie. Set your spool tension so the spool just barely doesn't move back and forth, and then try casting with an easy motion. Start with the brakes on full and back them off until you find the place that gives you the best balance of control and distance.
One other thing: Braided line will help tame magnetic brakes. I highly recommend braid if you're learning a baitcaster, especially if you're learning on a reel with magnetic brakes only. Just remember to use mono or tape backing to keep the braid from slipping.
That makes sense to me about the braking systems being different and this factor obviously plays a big part in style and what you get used to. In response to this post and the one by rippin lips, I am not new to fishing or baitcasting. I suppose it's just the fact that I'm used to the system in the Revos and the Curados more so than the Lews. I appreciate your suggestions and advice on how to go about learning how to handle that reel though. I don't know that I would ever go and buy another one but if I come across a great deal I might buy one just to learn it.
Thanks for the input!
All this being said, I think the Lew's look and feel great. Definitely nice reels!
Teal reply :
On 4/24/2013 at 9:35 PM, stkbassn said:All my first Lews did was backlash every time I threw it....my Curados and Citicas won't backlash unless I do something dumb, which I do! ha.
How do you set the thing up not to do so?
I really liked the Lews as far as weight and feel....I don't know that I like it more than my Shimanos but they are nice for sure.....My Curados and Citica E's are pretty darn sweet and I like them. My Revo S is great too.
Operator error.
My Lews reels are great, rarely backlash.
My speed spool (mag breaks) is definitly more finicky than the others but still isnt bad at all. I have had Curados, and still have a Citica and a Revo S and they ARE NOT light years ahead of the lews by no mean. I will say the Revo S is a casting machine, but still doesnt compare to the Tournament Speed Spool much less the Tourney Pro or Team Lews.
stkbassn reply :
On 4/25/2013 at 7:16 AM, Teal said:Operator error.
My Lews reels are great, rarely backlash.
My speed spool (mag breaks) is definitly more finicky than the others but still isnt bad at all. I have had Curados, and still have a Citica and a Revo S and they ARE NOT light years ahead of the lews by no mean. I will say the Revo S is a casting machine, but still doesnt compare to the Tournament Speed Spool much less the Tourney Pro or Team Lews.
Yes, thanks. I've already copped to that in the post above. I tried it one day and didn't go back...probably could have mastered it with patience and experimenting but found it easier to sell it and stick with what I know. I'm good with Shimano and Abu but I will give credit where it's due, Lews are nice reels.
Hooligan reply :
Good review, though I cannot support your confidence and pronouncement of other reels.
What I will say is that your mileage may vary with Lews. They make a very good reel, however it will forever come to brand preference. For the record, as well, tolerances being what they are, I've seen as many poor examples from Lews as I have from others. Time, definitely, will be the judge. As I am only a year and change in to mine, I can't comment on long term. What I can say is that I have had a couple issues that were resolved by Lews quite quickly.
GaterB reply :
Great write up. Some people take it way too personally when someone talks about one company being better than another. This was just one person's experience over the course of a long time, and they were impressed! Just take it for what it's worth, nobody is trying to make anyone change what they like!
down4ttown reply :
Ranking my reels that I have currently-
1. Team Lew's Speed Spool (red)- Thing is a beast on my Dobyns DX. Casts smooth and flips even smoother.
2. Team Lew's Pro- Do not know why but it is a tad behind my other but still a dream to cast.
3. Shimano Curado 50E Supertuned- It switch this between my spinnerbait and cranking rods. Thing is awesome.
4. Abu Garcia STX gen 3 Revo- Just got this one but it is NICE!
5. Shimano Chronarch 200E- This thing is a slower speed so it limits my usage to the colder months. Thing is built solid and is probably the most reliable.
6. Lew's BB1- Topwater and this thing will cast a mile. Great for what it does.
7. h2o Mettle- Used for frogs with 65lb braid. You can not backlash this thing. I can throw frogs a mile on this right out of the box for 29.99. Best value for newer fishermen.
8. BP PQ- Literally have these on a shelf as backups due to having mulitples of some of the reels above. Good reel but can not get it to cast as good as the mettle with my braid on it. May need to be cleaned out a bit.
stkbassn reply :
Lew's BB1; I see at least one person above that's praising that reel. Anyone else have experience with it? This is one I would consider simply because of the braking system....I've read good things!
At $159 it's competing with Chronarchs (well only a bit less money...)
I may buy a Chronarch and a BB1.....
down4ttown reply :
I like my Chronarch over the BB1.
PondBoss reply :
The only thing I don't like about all of my Lews reels is the paddle style knobs. But I put the rubber grips on them and VIOLA' perfecto!
J Francho reply :
Not sure how we can make any comments about durability for reels that haven't been out for more than two years.
chromedog reply :
On 4/26/2013 at 12:45 AM, J Francho said:Not sure how we can make any comments about durability for reels that haven't been out for more than two years.
Exactly, not saying anything bad about any company, but a couple of years doesn't show me a history of longstanding quality or durability. Not saying they aren't or can't be. But I need more. I have reels that the braid has been on longer than the testing phase on the reel.
Hooligan reply :
The BB1 is the reel that I like most out of the lineup. I want to put more time on it before I pass judgement overall, however. I've spent less than four months with it so far.
Shoalamfishin reply :
Another hot button issue. A positive review about a product that isn't backed by the majority of people and is relatively new to the market is bound to stir up some commotion especially when it conflicts with the brand loyalty of individuals. When brand loyalty is stirred up facts get mixed with opinions, baseless assumptions are drawn, insults are hurled, and side are taken; "you are either right or wrong," but that isn't so. In many ways reviews can be helpful especially when one can take in information objectively, with an open mind, and from that form their own opinions based on the facts provided. Often though reviews become grounds for conflict over who's opinion right.
I could give a glowing (well tested) review on Lew's reels (since they have come back onto the market) and their customer service, but given the conflict surrounding this topic thus far I will refrain from doing so.
J Francho reply :
Quoteassumptions are drawn, insults are hurled, and side are taken; "you are either right or wrong," but that isn't so.
Maybe you should reread this thread. There aren't insults, there aren't sides, there are people offering their opinions. Nothing more, nothing less. maybe you thought you were on a different forum?
down4ttown reply :
I hope my lew's reels last a long time. Will they??? Not sure. Just like people buying a truck, we all have our favorites, but if you take care of it, it will last as long as you need it to.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 4/26/2013 at 12:45 AM, J Francho said:Not sure how we can make any comments about durability for reels that haven't been out for more than two years.
On 4/26/2013 at 2:17 AM, chromedog said:Exactly, not saying anything bad about any company, but a couple of years doesn't show me a history of longstanding quality or durability. Not saying they aren't or can't be. But I need more. I have reels that the braid has been on longer than the testing phase on the reel.
On 4/26/2013 at 10:38 AM, Shoalamfishin said:Another hot button issue. A positive review about a product that isn't backed by the majority of people and is relatively new to the market is bound to stir up some commotion especially when it conflicts with the brand loyalty of individuals. When brand loyalty is stirred up facts get mixed with opinions, baseless assumptions are drawn, insults are hurled, and side are taken; "you are either right or wrong," but that isn't so. In many ways reviews can be helpful especially when one can take in information objectively, with an open mind, and from that form their own opinions based on the facts provided. Often though reviews become grounds for conflict over who's opinion right.
I could give a glowing (well tested) review on Lew's reels (since they have come back onto the market) and their customer service, but given the conflict surrounding this topic thus far I will refrain from doing so.
Shoalamfishin in response to a lot of these fanboy fisherman, the kind that have fished few models but know whats best??? I have been accused of this. Probably because since the SUPER SPEED MASTER, and then the SYMETRE! I was shimano all the way for over 20 years, 2 years ago I went from Stradic and Symetre spinners and Calcutta, Curado, Castiac, and Chronarc, I had over 22 outfits ready, with only 2 Abu 5500c's I was not a fan boy, I proved them.
Trust me Francho and Chromedog, I don't judge equipment in my reel shop, or on the family pond! I tried all other brands in these conditions and over the year's these reels I have used over the past 20 years prove to hold up to the rough treatment when other make's and models would not! I have been there, I have done that, and I refused to assume anything, these were HANDS ON RESULTS.! I was, (now retired) a lake Erie Charter boat owner and Captain, and a registered Ohio fishing guide. I know what conditions are, lake, river, stream pond, from the Great Lakes, to the largest flooded tributary to the Great Lakes, you name it, and will assure anyone nothing, not even normal river fishing takes into account the conditions this gear is subjected to for 6 to 12 hour's a day 5 and 6 day's a week, 6 to 8 weeks a season, Trust me, after 40 years fishing this extreme fishing fonoma, I have destroyed less expensive brands from all makers in these conditions in less than a season, and have none of the mid to top tier reels from any hold up for more than a year till I found the Symetre and Calcutta. My first reels I could clean when I was done with the run and lube and back to like new. These are extreme conditions you have to experience to understand. there are days that the river is low, but this whole season, the I prefer it easy fisherman are crying the blues, it is very hard on fisherman when you have to contend with extreme flood conditions every day, but I for one LOVE IT!!!, I took time years ago to figure it out, the sissy's are home crying it's to high it's to fast, it;s to tough, they need a local stocked pond to be successful cause they don't want to work at it! That means I don't have to put up with know it all jerks that can't catch a cold but want to screw 20 other people up, and now I have it much more peaceful and very few arrogant people to contend with, with most at this time being reel fisherman that know how to fish without screwing up everyone around them, as I say "fish hard or go home"! I have fished this run in these extreme rocky and turbid flood water conditions and throwing up to 1 1/2 oz. weight's on no stretch Synthetics and many times locked down drags just to keep from being stripped of 20 lbs. class braid. Believe me when you snag as many fish as you legally catch with the river full of egg suckers like Qillback, Carp, Buffalo, Suckers, Shad, you name it, many 20+ lbs. Carp, Buffalo, and Cats, in water riddled with rocks and boulders to tie up and smash into, running hard enough that a fellow acquaintance with a new 15' Lowe john boat and a 25 horse Mercury w/jet drive can't run up it, trust me these conditions test equipment in less time with more abuse than most can put them through in 10 years! These are bass size reels for the most part.and like I said there will be those that say that ain't that big a deal and means noting, of course they are the ones that haven't seen flood stage conditions on this river in these waters the Walleye spawning ground's, but they know these conditions mean nothing they don't need to "be there do that", THEIR PSYCHIC! Trust me folks I have fished most all better models by most makers over the years and why I now own over 25 outfits, (just got 2 more Team Gold's) all Shimano spinning Symetre to Sustain), and Lew's casting Tournament to Team), The mid quality tournament and BB1 are what I chose to test the lew's line, a mid level, and the second year, and why the last three Shimanos are getting sold, 2-400B Calcuttas, and one 200GTB Calcutta, I just got done receiving their replacements the two Team Gold and a BB1! These and my previous Shimanos are great reels and will give years of good service, so that should tell others the results I got from Lew's were,,,,, well maybe,,,,,,,,,been there done that????????? 
down4ttown reply :
Shimano spinning reels are awesome. I will give them that. Not a fan of the Lew's spinning reels.
J Francho reply :
Bob, you don't need to qualify your credentials. I'm just saying that it hasn't been enough time to say that a Lew's will last as long as a Calcutta or Ambassedeur. I fish the same stuff. I use Daiwa. They have held up. Are they as good as Lew's? Don't know. They've certainly stood the test of time. I've got a year on my Chronarchs, and two years on my CI4s, and they're holding up. I can't say they are as durable as my three TD-Xs, though - I haven't had them for 5-6 years.
stkbassn reply :
On 4/26/2013 at 8:42 AM, Hooligan said:The BB1 is the reel that I like most out of the lineup. I want to put more time on it before I pass judgement overall, however. I've spent less than four months with it so far.
i'm going to buy one today though paying retail is a bit of a sore spot when I can order off Ebay for $118....
i hope I love it. I think I will. I handled it yesterday and it seems pretty sweet. I really love the handle. I'm going to chuck swimbaits with it on Sunday...eventually it will be an all purpose reel so I'm hoping it can handle lighter baits well....
Capt.Bob reply :
On 4/26/2013 at 9:23 PM, J Francho said:Maybe you should reread this thread. There aren't insults, there aren't sides, there are people offering their opinions. Nothing more, nothing less. maybe you thought you were on a different forum?
Yes please do read all of it, I did not say my other reels were bad, quite the opposite as I said they were great, but we all see the fanboy post that just because someone is posting positive results on a brand they don't use, probably never owned, they draw a conclusion they can't be, did not say that at all, and why for the past 15, to 20 years loved the performance of the Curado Calcutta and Chronarchs, did not say there are others that wont hold up, as today I haven't fished a lot, and never said they are the best, although that opinion I will keep to myself, and say for the money I will say they can't be beat!! I have 4 Team reals the Original and 3 Gold's, for less than $170.00 buck's a piece! I can't buy a better reel for twice that. and anyone willing to pay over $330.00 for a baitcaster this size range outa be getting more than twice the reel and if it don't hold up better or run and feel better, well you call it what you want. I'm cheap, but the point is it work's! remember the reel I am telling my results with is one I bought new for $105.00!!! hard to beat!
lmbfisherman reply :
On 4/26/2013 at 10:46 PM, Capt.Bob said:Yes please do read all of it, I did not say my other reels were bad, quite the opposite as I said they were great, but we all see the fanboy post that just because someone is posting positive results on a brand they don't use, probably never owned, they draw a conclusion they can't be, did not say that at all, and why for the past 15, to 20 years loved the performance of the Curado Calcutta and Chronarchs, did not say there are others that wont hold up, as today I haven't fished a lot, and never said they are the best, although that opinion I will keep to myself, and say for the money I will say they can't be beat!! I have 4 Team reals the Original and 3 Gold's, for less than $170.00 buck's a piece! I can't buy a better reel for twice that. and anyone willing to pay over $330.00 for a baitcaster this size range outa be getting more than twice the reel and if it don't hold up better or run and feel better, well you call it what you want. I'm cheap, but the point is it work's! remember the reel I am telling my results with is one I bought new for $105.00!!! hard to beat!
I favor my Shimanos that is for sure, but I'm not brand loyal. If I could buy one locally to try out I'd buy one. Right now I can't seem to find anyone near me that sells them. I guess on my next trip to NYC (visit family) I may have to pick one up. Which one would be the best to try out first (keeping in mind I own mostly Curados) and probably can't spend more than 200?
Capt.Bob reply :
On 4/27/2013 at 12:03 AM, lmbfisherman said:I favor my Shimanos that is for sure, but I'm not brand loyal. If I could buy one locally to try out I'd buy one. Right now I can't seem to find anyone near me that sells them. I guess on my next trip to NYC (visit family) I may have to pick one up. Which one would be the best to try out first (keeping in mind I own mostly Curados) and probably can't spend more than 200?
Like I said the Team Gold is an exceptional reel, retails for $239 but I have yeat to pay over 165, for one on auction, but have been out bid on a few. It takes patience and last second reactions. But would assure you at that price you can sell it and recoup every dime. I seriously think the Tournament or better the BB1 would astound you, if you are only comparing to the Curado, and can be had for just over $100.00 again watch the auctions.
lmbfisherman reply :
On 4/27/2013 at 1:51 AM, Capt.Bob said:Like I said the Team Gold is an exceptional reel, retails for $239 but I have yeat to pay over 165, for one on auction, but have been out bid on a few. It takes patience and last second reactions. But would assure you at that price you can sell it and recoup every dime. I seriously think the Tournament or better the BB1 would astound you, if you are only comparing to the Curado, and can be had for just over $100.00 again watch the auctions.
Yeah that is the issue, most of the Auction guys are shipping from the US (live in Canada) and a lot of them have insane shipping prices. The shipping prices are bad I know, but some of them add up to half the cost of an item at times.
kickerfish1 reply :
I have 2 Lews reels. I like both of them though they don't see as much time as other reels due to the fact they are on less used technique specific rigs. Had them for about a year with no complaints. For what I paid I couldn't be more happy but there are other reels I have that I like more.
rippin-lips reply :
Tournament pros for $135
Tournament speed spools for $108
Low ratio bb1's for $100
Higher ratio bb1*** for $110
All are new in box and I just buy them outright. Shipping is even included and no taxes. I'll put them up against any used $100 Curado.
No I haven't used or owned any high dollar reels $300+ I've used a lot in the $100-200 range. Shimano,Abu,daiwa,pflueger,Lews,bps,ardent ect. I like what I'm getting at the price I'm paying with Lews so I stick with Lews. Always seems like the Shimano crowd aren't willing to accept the fact that Lews are going to give them a run for their money. Just like the Harley guys arguing about jap bikes. Chevy Cobalts are also built in the same factory as a Chevy Corvette. This doesn't mean they use the same parts. That's for whoever that guy was.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 4/27/2013 at 5:31 AM, rippin-lips said:Tournament pros for $135
Tournament speed spools for $108
Low ratio bb1's for $100
Higher ratio bb1*** for $110
All are new in box and I just buy them outright. Shipping is even included and no taxes. I'll put them up against any used $100 Curado.
No I haven't used or owned any high dollar reels $300+ I've used a lot in the $100-200 range. Shimano,Abu,daiwa,pflueger,Lews,bps,ardent ect. I like what I'm getting at the price I'm paying with Lews so I stick with Lews. Always seems like the Shimano crowd aren't willing to accept the fact that Lews are going to give them a run for their money. Just like the Harley guys arguing about jap bikes. Chevy Cobalts are also built in the same factory as a Chevy Corvette. This doesn't mean they use the same parts. That's for whoever that guy was.
Sounds like you must be getting seconds if you will only put them against $100.00 used reels!! They should do much better than that! Ive had both and know that hands down that is no comparison.
I have 3 Team Golds, and a Team, and have less than $170.00 in every one of them, and will put them up against any reel for three times that money, and most that cost 4x that, smoother, better casting and maybe not as heavy a max drag but every bit as smooth with as quick a start up.
The BB1 can be had for the $110 as you mentioned and I will do the same for that, take the reels with computer cast control,,,,(won't mention any brand's) and the BB1 reels will top em for smoothness, max drag and performance, and cast right with them if you are anywhere near efficient at casting a baitcaster!! I have a buddie who has one and he is sick seeing my BB1 outcast his ********DC I also have three Tournament models and at $100.00 will take them over any reel costing 3x that and will outperform most in every catagory, smoothness, drag power and performance, casting ease and distance, and probably more useable features, and they can be used or brand new!!
The only thing I started this thread about was the lack of most reels to stand up to a full season of the abuse this run put's on equipment!! I have seen a lot of high dollar equipment that is very nice and extremly smooth, expensive and very good on the pond, but be totally destroyed by the abuse this tributary puts on equipment at this time of year, as many of these fancy lightweight expesive reels are built far to lightweight to take this abuse. I have fished the fall salmon runs on the St. Joeseph and the Pierre Marquette, but those don't put the abuse on equipment this run does. Everyone doubting these reels should spend $160.00 to $170.00 for a new Team Gold, and experience the truth!!!,,,,,, I think that is what they should have called them instead of Team Lew's Gold, they should have been Called LEW"S GOLD TRUTH!!!!! Or don't and you will never understand. I assure it will be the best reel you ever owned under $400.00 and most likely $600.00!!
rippin-lips reply :
You pretty much missed the point of my entire post but ok. The reels I buy are new not 2nds. I didn't say I wouldn't put it against any other reel over $100. The curado is the one always brought up. I will however argue that the team Lews won't touch a $600 reel. $400 maybe but 6 no way!
Daiwa Steez is under 600 and embarrasses it.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 5/1/2013 at 11:18 PM, rippin-lips said:You pretty much missed the point of my entire post but ok. The reels I buy are new not 2nds. I didn't say I wouldn't put it against any other reel over $100. The curado is the one always brought up. I will however argue that the team Lews won't touch a $600 reel. $400 maybe but 6 no way!
Daiwa Steez is under 600 and embarrasses it.
I noticed in your list you didn't mention having a Team??? But I'll take your word for it???? and why I said most likely!! 
rippin-lips reply :
I'm a lefty or I'd probably have one. I've fished both a team pro and team gold of a friends. Just casting to see if I could force myself to like a rh retrieve but I can't do it. They are nice. I own all Lews reel except 2 out of my 8 combos.
Hi Salenity reply :
I have had the antireverse go out of 2 of my Tps so I called the factory and they are sending me the parts for free!
They didn't ask any questions about a receipt or wen they were bought they just wanted my address...
rippin-lips reply :
Their customer service is top notch. I had the coating start to peel on one of the handles and they sent me new ones no questions asked.
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