fishing spot logo
fishing spot font logo



What Diawa Is A 'must Have' Diawa? 2024


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 

I have never owed a baitcaster other than Shimano and I am interested in maybe acquiring a Diawa. I have read Jun's comments on Japan Tackle's Website about current and discontinued models but I want to hear from you guys. The reel will be used for only T-Rigged worms and craws and lighter (1/4 to 3/8oz) jigs. This could also include the Megabass versions as well.


fishing user avatarChris at Tech reply : 

Zillion.

Edit: and they can be found on sale now since Daiwa will be releasing an updated model. But don't let that dissuade you. The current models are great!


fishing user avatarMCS reply : 

Megabass_Zonda68Hedgehog......But if your looking for mainstream Zillion. Everyone loves the zillion palms nice and built like a tank.


fishing user avatarTywithay reply : 

For lighter stuff like that, I like the Steez SV or SS SV. They are light as can be and casting is just stupid easy.


fishing user avatarJrob78 reply : 

If money isn't an issue get a Steez.  This is Daiwa's flagship reel. ;)


fishing user avatarGoose52 reply : 

If you are interested in not only current, but previous production (used), reels - a Zillion (new) is a do-anything workhorse, or a Sol (used) would be lighter and still handle your applications.  Both are classic USDM-type models with lots of customization parts. A Fuego is a nice reel but probably doesn't have the panache of the Zillion and Sol. If you want JDM - MANY options - I'll let the Daiwa junkies go there. If you only want to test the Daiwa waters before diving deep..........a Tatula is a great start.

 

You will probably get lots of opinions on this one... :lol:


fishing user avatarColdSVT reply : 

The only problem with diawa are the names lol

The zillion is a solid workhorse reel as is the sol...ok i kinda like the name sol lol


fishing user avatarbigfishbk86 reply : 

Zillion. Period.


fishing user avatarTywithay reply : 

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 5:41 AM, Tywithay said:

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.

I'm thinking the same same thing. I'd shoot for a px-r. Would handle those jigs great right out of the box. If you ever want to finesse fish throw in an i'ze finesse spool...

If you want something more collectible, I'd probably go for a hedgehog.


fishing user avatarJrob78 reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 5:41 AM, Tywithay said:

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.

I agree.  I started to mention the Zillion but feel like it would need a different spool to accomplish what the OP is going for.


fishing user avataraavery2 reply : 

TDZ-105H, I  like the TDZ platform but I have large hands, the Alphas platform is fantastic also, and Pixy, Sol, or Alphas would all be fantastic. 


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 5:41 AM, Tywithay said:

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.

 

No.  I have a couple Purple Alphas reels.  An Alphas variant would be my first choice....unless you can find a TD-Z 105H.

 

OP, most people seem to like the Sol better than the Fuego.  I don't belong to that group.  I have 2 Sols...one tuned and upgraded drag, bearings and a Presso spool.  One of my 3 Fuegos has been upgraded with Carbontex drag, bearings and a tune-up although my understanding from Mike is that there isn't much that can be polished on a Daiwa..  I prefer the Fuegos.

 

I have no experience with the more expensive Daiwas such as the Pixy, Steez, PX, etc.  Out of my price bracket.  I do have 3 Zillions.  The 50th Anniversary is definitely one of my favorites.  If you want to throw 1/4 oz. baits, the a Pixy or PX-R would undoubtedly be great.  Just going by what I have read about them.

 

The Zillion is a very good reel.  My understanding is that it can be made to cast lighter baits with the replacement of the spool (forget the name).  Of course upgraded bearings wouldn't hurt either.  Depends on how much you want to spend.


fishing user avatarGrantman83 reply : 

Alphas type r baby!


fishing user avatarDogBone_384 reply : 

I have a T3 ballistic I got from Tackle Warehouse for short money and can tell you it casts light-ish baits great and is smooth as silk.  If your budget is up to it, the Zillions might be the way to go, IMO.

 

Best of luck, and I doubt you'll be disappointed with whatever you pick.


fishing user avatarSmallmouth Hunter reply : 

NOT the zillion.. Lol

The zillion is a good reel for baits 1/2 and up (isn't great at 3/8 oz compared to other reels), and even with 1/2 oz baits the reel does not stand out among other reels in casting performance. I believe it shines with 3/4 oz baits and up..

I think you should look at the SS SV. Poor mans steez, but with an sv spool.


fishing user avatarJ Francho reply : 

One of the Alphas types, for what you want to do. Otherwise, for gen. purpose a Zillion.


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 

I was wondering when the Alphas would get some nods. To be honest, the Alphas platform is what I have been looking at the most.


fishing user avatartimsford reply : 

With the weights you want to throw id reccomend a sol, fuego, td-z 105, t3 1016 or ballistic, or tatula type r. The steez or px-r would handle those weights awesome as well if you have the dough to spend. I can't afford either of those but im in the process of saving for a ss sv to do the same thing you are wanting. Its a jdm reel that should work great from what ive heard


fishing user avatarJrob78 reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 7:02 AM, John G said:

I was wondering when the Alphas would get some nods. To be honest, the Alphas platform is what I have been looking at the most.

The Alphas platform is fantastic.  You can't go wrong with any of the Alphas reels.   I have a Sol and an Alphas Ito 103-AI.


fishing user avatar5fishlimit reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 5:41 AM, Tywithay said:

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.

I have 2 Zillion 100SHLA's and have no problems throwing a 1/4oz lure. Both have stock bearings and spool.

My PX-R is a much better option for this weight, but don't think the Zillion isn't up to the task.

The rod your using is IMHO much more important in being able to get down to 1/4oz.


fishing user avatar0119 reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 6:59 AM, aprw1 said:

NOT the zillion.. Lol

The zillion is a good reel for baits 1/2 and up (isn't great at 3/8 oz compared to other reels), and even with 1/2 oz baits the reel does not stand out among other reels in casting performance. I believe it shines with 3/4 oz baits and up..

I think you should look at the SS SV. Poor mans steez, but with an sv spool.

My fishing buddy throws 1/4oz. jig heads w/ little DOA C.A.L. paddletails all day long with a Zillion Inshore without a problem.  I've used his and found it to throw weightless super flukes easily.


fishing user avatarkickerfish1 reply : 

There probably isn't a member on this board with more experience with the Alphas variants than Tim S. If this was the platform you want for sure he could probably elaborate on the differences among them. I own a custom Alphas with more $ in it than I care to admit. It is a great real for sure but the one thing I like best about it is the way it palms. The retrieve is beyond smooth and the instant anti reverse is very tight. For being an older reel they were truly ahead of their time. A Sol would be a very similar reel. I would look at the Purple Alphas if you don't want to get too deep into one.


fishing user avatarSenkoGuru reply : 

No question in my book. Daiwa Zillion


fishing user avatarRaul reply : 

I own a few Daiwas, must have ------> TDZ103H, the only thing that baby needs is a drag pad upgrade, why from all the Daiwas I own say that reel is the must have ? You can get it for around 200 dollars, it's upgradable and spool compatibility and aftermarket spool turn your reel automatically in something else. You can get the spool from the 100ML and imediately you have a deep spool versión for heavier line, get the spool from a 105 and you got a super great finesse reel, you can get the new SV aftermarket spool and you got a super finesse baitcaster, you can get the handle from the US trail and have the longer handle. Weights a lot less than the Zillion, has more bearings than the Zillion and casts like dream. I own several Alphas variations, I like the plataform but they are not a TDZ.


fishing user avatarFishTank reply : 

Another vote for the Zillion.  I will say this about it, I have had it for 7 years and I still say it is not the best reel for light weight baits.  The breaking system seems to come on most of the time but not all the time.  Big baits are not an issue (1/2 oz and up)


fishing user avatarChris at Tech reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 5:41 AM, Tywithay said:

You guys really think the Zillion is a good choice for 1/4oz jigs? I agree it's one of the must have Daiwa's but it's not one of the best, or even really that good, when it comes to casting anything that light. There's far better choices.

My dedicated jig rig is a Zillion on a 7' MH/F Zillion rod, and 80% of the time I have a 1/4 oz jig tied on. I'm not going to tell you that a Zillion reel is the best choice for light baits but a 1/4 oz jig with a trailer is absolutely not a problem to throw.


fishing user avatarMike2841 reply : 

I may be laughed out of this thread but I prefer the tatula over the zillion. I think both would be good for 3/8 + trailer, not sure about 1/4.


fishing user avatarSenkoGuru reply : 

I'm not laughing at you, The Tatula is a hell of a Reel


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 

There is a RH Sol for $125 on another forum.  Would make a good reel for 1/4 oz.


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 

1/4 or 3/8 oz jig w/trailer is easily handled by a Zillion.  I have been using my 50th to throw my Pop-R's and it casts those very well.  I'm using my Fuego to throw T-rig worms, usually 3/16 - 1/4 oz bullet 3/0 hook and 7" Berkley Power worm.  No problems with that package, can really huck it out there if I want to. But honestly my HSTA's will do nearly as well.

 

I have yet to try my 100M spool in either one, but the way they are working I don't feel the need.

 

I have 2 Fuego I just bought this spring, bone stock and the drags are terrible on both.  They are going to get some work this winter!  They are the worst drags I've had on any reel.


fishing user avatarFlywatersmallie reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 9:14 AM, Mike2841 said:

I may be laughed out of this thread but I prefer the tatula over the zillion. I think both would be good for 3/8 + trailer, not sure about 1/4.

 

I prefer the Tatula to the Zillion too. For what its worth, I threw 1/4 oz jigs with a light trailer (small paca chunks) all night tonight with lots of wind and no issues on a Tatula. Its a great all around reel for not a lot of money!

 

 

  On 7/1/2014 at 9:49 AM, new2BC4bass said:

There is a RH Sol for $125 on another forum.  Would make a good reel for 1/4 oz.

 

 

That's a steal! I've got one NIB sitting on my shelf right now and while I would sell it, not for anywhere near that price


fishing user avatarSmallmouth Hunter reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 9:14 AM, Mike2841 said:

I may be laughed out of this thread but I prefer the tatula over the zillion. I think both would be good for 3/8 + trailer, not sure about 1/4.

I agree.. The zillion didn't impress me once I uses the tatula.
fishing user avatarGaerith reply : 

PX r for 1/4 oz weights. Iirc its made to cast lighter lures.


fishing user avatarHogsticker reply : 

Jdm, get a gently used Tdz. This reel is considered legendary and sought after for a reason. It's just a super reel. The Alphas and Sol are nice little reels once you install the drag clicker conversion kit. I personally can't handle a reel without a clicking drag. For Usdm I still prefer the Fuego over any other Daiwa reels in that price range. The Tdz and Fuego are versatile great casters that feel nice, especially after upgrading to a longer handle. With the exception of the 1016 which I love, I haven't been impressed with many Daiwa reels. The Zillions are super solid tanks that can handle quarter to an ounce, but they make better moving bait reels to me. I prefer the Tdz and Fuego for feel applications.


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 9:06 AM, Raul said:

I own a few Daiwas, must have ------> TDZ103H, the only thing that baby needs is a drag pad upgrade, why from all the Daiwas I own say that reel is the must have ? You can get it for around 200 dollars

Well, I have been doing some investigating and what I have found is there are several variants of the TDZ103H. There is the regular 103H, the 2002 Type R 103H, the 2004 Type R+ 103H and the Megabass 103.

On TT, in the vote for your favorite JDM Daiwa, the 04' Type R+ is ahead of the 02' Type R by a large margin.

In the Limited Edition Reels section on Japan Tackle, Jun explains that the 02' Type R has least brake force (best casting performance) and should only be used by expert casters. The Type R+ is in the middle of the regular 103H and the Type R in regards to brake force (casting performance).

I would have thought that the 02' Type R being tuned a little more, would be more popular than the 04' Type R+. Guess not!

Do you recommend the regular 103H or one of the Type R versions?


fishing user avatarMr_Scrogg reply : 

Ill toss my opinion. For the $$, if you can get your hands on a TD-Advantage HSTA, they are tanks. I picked up my 4th the other day for $80 shipped.


fishing user avatarGrantman83 reply : 

I have a 2002 type r and it is smooth beyond measure especially at casting.


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 
  On 7/4/2014 at 9:03 AM, Grantman83 said:

I have a 2002 type r and it is smooth beyond measure especially at casting.

Is that the one with the cork knobs, carbon handle and gold spool?
fishing user avatarGrantman83 reply : 

Nope...grey with black gigas spool


fishing user avatarskeletor6 reply : 

Steez!


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 
  On 7/1/2014 at 10:12 AM, Flywatersmallie said:

I prefer the Tatula to the Zillion too. For what its worth, I threw 1/4 oz jigs with a light trailer (small paca chunks) all night tonight with lots of wind and no issues on a Tatula. Its a great all around reel for not a lot of money!

 

 

 

 

 

I suspect that this is where you, myself and some others may have missed the boat.  I get the idea it's not about being a minimalist here, rather quite the opposite.  LOTS of reels can handle the requirements stated, but they don't carry the image required to match the intemperance or debauchery of the elite tackle enthusiast.  Not that there is anything wrong with that.  I myself covet the Alphas 103 R and some others, but reality often gets the better of me for now.  I'm feeling my ability to resist weaken by the day.  While it will carry that cool factor I rue the very day I'll spend more than $200 on a reel....again.


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 
  On 7/5/2014 at 12:04 PM, Jeff H said:

I suspect that this is where you, myself and some others may have missed the boat.  I get the idea it's not about being a minimalist here, rather quite the opposite.  LOTS of reels can handle the requirements stated, but they don't carry the image required to match the intemperance or debauchery of the elite tackle enthusiast.  Not that there is anything wrong with that.  I myself covet the Alphas 103 R and some others, but reality often gets the better of me for now but I'm feeling my ability to resist weaken by the day.  While it will carry that cool factor I rue the very day I'll spend more than $200 on a reel....again.

 

 

I know what you mean! I have some Scorpion 1500XT's and they are a $200.00 reel that will definitely get the job done but they don't even come close to the WOW FACTOR of an Antares or Conquest! I tell ya, if I had the $400 + on me right now, that NIB Alphas 103 R Edition on ebay would be on it's way to my door even though I know that it doesn't take that much cash to do what I want to do.


fishing user avatarFlywatersmallie reply : 

Agreed. It's nice to have the top shelf toys. They're fun to use and fun to look at. That said though, the law of diminishing returns really comes into play here. Is the Tatula/Curado and others really twice the reel as say the Caenan or Abu max series? The answer is a resounding yes almost all of the time. The same can not be said going up from that $150-200 price point. Might be a couple extra bearings or a better finish but does any of that warrant the added price? For me it does not. I buy my reels to fish with. For $150 I get performance and quality I am happy with but at the same time I'm not afraid to actually use the reel


fishing user avatar1099gl reply : 

tatula all the way awesome reel for the money.


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 

Well, I finally got stupid and stepped over to the dark side.  Bought a near mint Alphas Type F.  Nothing to get excited about, just the JDM version of the Sol and was bought for well under $200.  Figured I'd give finesse casting a chance and have to say I'm blown away at the distance I get from this thing with light lures.  My finesse fishing has definitely taken on a new adventure.now.  This is going to give "fun fishing" another level of fun.  Somebody stop me!  I used to rail against this very thing, I still think it's dumb but heck....it's really kind of fun!


fishing user avataraavery2 reply : 

Congrats on the new reel. I agree it is a lot of fun throwing lighter baits on BFS gear, now that you have selected your reel, it will only be a matter of time before you start fine tuning it to meet your needs, it is kind of addicting.


fishing user avatarHogsticker reply : 

If it's fun it can't be dumb!


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 

Sold all my Swimbait gear to buy more finesse gear.... Its very addicting !!


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 
  On 7/11/2014 at 1:35 PM, aavery2 said:

Congrats on the new reel. I agree it is a lot of fun throwing lighter baits on BFS gear, now that you have selected your reel, it will only be a matter of time before you start fine tuning it to meet your needs, it is kind of addicting.

It got torn apart, cleaned and lubed right away.  Also added Carbontex drag kit.  For now, that's all it needed.  

 

Right after I bought that, I stumbled on a couple TD-Z's for really cheap that needed a few parts, that i happened to have on hand, so I bought those too.  One of which is the 103P and destined to become my finesse cranker now. I want a larger capacity spool for it (it has the low capacity 105H spool in it now) and was recommended the RCS 1016.  So, that's going to happen in the next few weeks.  It got the 100M  90mm handle already and the requiste Carbontex drag kit was already in it!  So, I'm about done with this whole finesse caster thing already.  Just need a couple rods now. 


fishing user avatar.ghoti. reply : 

I have four Alphas, four Zillions, six Fuegos, and two TD-Zs. I think I can say all are must haves, because I have them. LOL

You can still buy a ZIllion, but it looks like it's days are numbered. The rest are out of production, and have been for a while.

I don't really "need" any more reels, but the SS SV is on my radar. I may not be able to resist much longer.


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 

I don't need anymore either, I can work with what I've got now.  I like fixing them up but I'm not blowing money on cosmetic enhancements that offer no performance advantage.  I'm only going to put one foot over the fence into the dark side, not going completely over.  My favorite reel is still the HSTA for all around use.


fishing user avatarCapt.Bob reply : 

I don't tournament fish but always finesse fished unless it was for money, like I had to do when I was running Charters. I never cared for dragging and horsing fish to the boat, and prefered feeling the bite and playing the fish with as little on the line as possible, I like the lightest rod capable for the job, on the lightest line (leader) and the smallest reel capable of holding enough line and drag to get em stopped before I get spooled. Then use the lightest lure, bait, or rigging to get"r"done! If you aint getting paid to do it, it should be fun, and I like given em a chance, even when it's frustrating and their winning!! Enjoy sounds like you got that down though!! :thumbsup1:


fishing user avatarjtesch reply : 

Part of the hardcore Daiwa love is the ability to work on and trick out their reels. I've built quite a few tricked out td-x's and either use them or sell them at a nice little profit. My last score was a new/display Fuego BC for $130. I put the Gigas spool, carbon tec drag, Boca bearings and a zillion swept drag star with a swept handle and 4 bearing Megabass knobs. Total cost of upgrades was around $150. Now I've done the same upgrade package to Zillions and it really turns them into a superb reel but your looking at $450 when done. The Fuego totals out at $280 and fished side by side the Fuego casts better, is better with lighter weights and is Much lighter. The zillion is gonna have a better drag and is a more heavy duty reel. So I have to say the Fuego is a must have, even if you just change the spool and clean and relive the stock bearings it's s huge improvement


fishing user avatarSilas reply : 

I have the Daiwa Zillion, 3 TDZ's, Purple Alpha, Sol, Yellow Pixy, Red Pixy, and 2 Steez.

 

The Zillion is my "Beater."  I loan it to my brother when we fish.  He loves it.

 

The Sol is a great small crankbait reel.  Very smooth and best bangs for the buck.

 

The Purple Alpha is wonderful ( I traded the Ito for it because I didn't want to be careful with the plastic type sideplate, although it cast better than the Purple)

 

The Yellow and Red Pixies are my go to for wacky worm light fishing.

 

But.....the 2 Steez are presently my "must have" reels.  They are the smoothest, cast the lightest, and all around......with minimum adjustment.  And I bought BOTH of them off forum members, slightly used for about $280 each. 

 

I DO feel, after experimenting with differerent RODS for each, that MUCH depends on the choice of rod as to how much you enjoy the reel.

 

  I've finally found that the Dobyns Extreme models and the old Shimano Cumulus, and the Megabass Rattle Viper are at their very best with these reels. (Also Loomis IMX)


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/17/2014 at 5:55 AM, Silas said:

I have the Daiwa Zillion, 3 TDZ's, Purple Alpha, Sol, Yellow Pixy, Red Pixy, and 2 Steez.

 

The Zillion is my "Beater."  I loan it to my brother when we fish.  He loves it.

 

The Sol is a great small crankbait reel.  Very smooth and best bangs for the buck.

 

The Purple Alpha is wonderful ( I traded the Ito for it because I didn't want to be careful with the plastic type sideplate, although it cast better than the Purple)

 

The Yellow and Red Pixies are my go to for wacky worm light fishing.

 

But.....the 2 Steez are presently my "must have" reels.  They are the smoothest, cast the lightest, and all around......with minimum adjustment.  And I bought BOTH of them off forum members, slightly used for about $280 each. 

 

I DO feel, after experimenting with differerent RODS for each, that MUCH depends on the choice of rod as to how much you enjoy the reel.

 

  I've finally found that the Dobyns Extreme models and the old Shimano Cumulus, and the Megabass Rattle Viper are at their very best with these reels. (Also Loomis IMX)

 

Glad to see you are still around.  Been awhile since I've seen a post of yours.  You've put together some VERY nice gear.....even if the reels are Daiwas.  :hahaha-024:

 

Must be nice to have a $300 "beater" to loan out.  :teeth:  Doubt you paid that anymore than I did for my Zillions.  I might let a responsible person use one, but they better take good care of it or :punchingbag:

 

I've gotten 2 Purple Alphas since last talking to you.  Love these reels.  An Alphas is a must have as far as I am concerned.  Can't afford the Pixy or Steez.  Definitely not those rods.

 

I am up to 21 Daiwas....and that doesn't count my spinning reels.


fishing user avatarBasshunterJGH reply : 

Zillion, tatula and Lexa 300 for swimbaits.


fishing user avatarpapajoe222 reply : 

For the applications you mention, the Sol would be the perfect answer. It will handle the lighter weight stuff easily and on the rights rod 1/2oz isn't out of the question. Not to pricey either, but there aren't a whole bunch available.


fishing user avatarBig Texan reply : 

Tatula, it will out cast the old Zillion and is a little lighter. The new Zillion will outcast, distance wise, theTatula. All three are great reels just the Tatula at $149 retail is the deal. Great reel and will cast really light baits in the wind with ease.


fishing user avatarCgrinder reply : 
  On 7/19/2014 at 10:24 AM, papajoe222 said:

For the applications you mention, the Sol would be the perfect answer. It will handle the lighter weight stuff easily and on the rights rod 1/2oz isn't out of the question. Not to pricey either, but there aren't a whole bunch available.

 

I agree, though the Sol needs some fairly significant modifications to make it a truly special reel in my opinion. At the very least, the handle and monster handle nut have to go. Carbontex washers are also probably a "mandatory" upgrade. The downside of the Sol/Alphas is that your spool options are limited. Additionally the drag star does not click, but you can throw money at that and change it.

 

I am a big fan of my Sol. It spent the last week throwing Baby Rage Craws for river Smallmouth and I was very impressed by its performance. So for now I'd say the Sol is must-have Daiwa, though we'll see if my choice changes after I acquire a TD-Z and a Steez.


fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 
  On 7/20/2014 at 3:01 AM, Big Texan said:

The new Zillion will outcast, distance wise, theTatula. 

How do you know this?  I would expect it should but I've not seen any comments from anyone who actually has one yet.


fishing user avatarrippin-lips reply : 

I can't understand all the hype of the steez. I have one that's gotta boca os7 bearings and a rcs 1016 spool. Yes it's super light and it's smooth but it doesn't handle weightless plastics well at all. To throw a weightless senko I have to crank the brakes up pretty high and add a few clicks of tension. I am using fluoro which isn't know to be the most manageable though. My tatula throws a weightless fluke with no troubles.


fishing user avatarMaxximus Redneckus reply : 

Im outta my league here but i finnesse fish with a BC sometimes.i have 2 tech specs and use them on a old school pistol grip lightning rod with 6 lb yo zuri.the reel weighs 6 oz the rod 3 oz .im casting 1/16 on up with no probs.To the OP though the rod IMO is 90% of your casting. med light and light action rods will .cast better as mots are made for lighter weights as posted on the rod.


fishing user avatarjamesholton reply : 

i think THE diawa you should try is the pixy. same size as sol, but shallower spool. finesse MACHINE!!! make it a "pixzilla" and it's just awesome!!!


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/21/2014 at 11:48 AM, jamesholton said:

i think THE diawa you should try is the pixy. same size as sol, but shallower spool. finesse MACHINE!!! make it a "pixzilla" and it's just awesome!!!

 

Pixy might be the same size as a Sol with a shallower spool, but I have to think there are more differences than that.  I have an upgraded and tuned Sol that I installed a Presso spool in.  Yes it improved handling light lures.  It isn't quite apples to apples as I made the mistake of spooling 10# Super Natural on it versus the 6# XL and 6# Elite I have on a couple other reels.  The cheaper reels are getting a little better distance than the Sol.  So is my tuned and upgraded TD-Z 105H.  Didn't change the line when the 105H arrived, but it looks like 6# as well.  Lighter line on the Sol should improve its distance to compare much more closely to the other reels...maybe even equal them.

 

I would hope that a Pixy...and especially a Pixilla....at several times the cost of my cheap reels, and at least twice (for a Pixilla) what I have in the 105H would be a much better performing reel.  Would love to find an Airy Red I could afford.

 

The Steez is loved by many.  However, I have read several posts stating that it can be a bear to control....especially with light lures.  I think this pertained more to one model.  (Maybe the 103?  Don't remember.)


fishing user avatarjamesholton reply : 

yeah, i'd like a red one too. i have a stock orange one,and custom painted pixzilla. caught my pb on the stock pixy. 9 #er! i just really like the whole alphas/sol/pixy platform a lot. 

i have 15# smackdown braid on the pixzilla now. havent used mono in a looooong time.


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/21/2014 at 12:52 PM, jamesholton said:

i just really like the whole alphas/sol/pixy platform a lot. 

 

 

So do I.  :teeth:  I've got 5 reels on that platform.  I am also a fan of the TD-Z platform.  Had my first Low Profile out this weekend...a Fuego.  Still a sweet reel.


fishing user avatarBig Texan reply : 

Jeff H , I have casted a New Zillion then a Tatula with the same bait and same rod and line. With the TWS system now in the Zillion it will out distance every reel out there I believe. The spool completely disengages on the Zillion when the bar is pressed, It was 25 feet further than the Tatula and it casts the country mile.The Zillion was a factory proto type but pretty sure production reel. Didn't get to see if the Zillion will cast micro baits like the Tatula will but probably will.


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/21/2014 at 10:45 PM, Big Texan said:

Jeff H , I have casted a New Zillion then a Tatula with the same bait and same rod and line. With the TWS system now in the Zillion it will out distance every reel out there I believe. The spool completely disengages on the Zillion when the bar is pressed, It was 25 feet further than the Tatula and it casts the country mile.The Zillion was a factory proto type but pretty sure production reel. Didn't get to see if the Zillion will cast micro baits like the Tatula will but probably will.

 

Some nice information.  Thanks.


fishing user avatarjamesholton reply : 

i'm thinking maybe a T3 mx will be next on the list!!


fishing user avatarHot n Tot reply : 

I have: two Steez, two Std Zillions, one 50th anniv. Zillion, one Type R Zillion, two TDZ-105H and oneTDZ-103P. I also got 2 TDZ-100M spools for the Zillions which enable them to toss 1/4 oz baits such as a tiny torpedo a long way. But I gotta say, my 2 TDZ 105H reels are my favorites (for feel baits) Even better than my two steez. I love fishing small topwaters with the Zillions with the shallow spools.


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 7/23/2014 at 5:21 AM, jamesholton said:

i'm thinking maybe a T3 mx will be next on the list!!

 

Personally think they are better looking than the T3 1016 with the black reel and purple accents.  Couldn't tell any difference between the two for what little I have used them so far.  No surprise there  :teeth:  Played with both early this year.  Got down to Longcast and zero brakes casting a mid-size weight on MHF rods.  However, I could tell that setting could lead to problems for me if everything wasn't just right.  Could feel the line "fluffing" on every cast.  Maxbrake yield about the same distance with less fear of backlashing/overrunning.

 

I say go for it.  Doubt you will be disappointed.


fishing user avataraavery2 reply : 
  On 7/21/2014 at 11:26 AM, Maxximus Redneckus said:

Im outta my league here but i finnesse fish with a BC sometimes.i have 2 tech specs and use them on a old school pistol grip lightning rod with 6 lb yo zuri.the reel weighs 6 oz the rod 3 oz .im casting 1/16 on up with no probs.To the OP though the rod IMO is 90% of your casting. med light and light action rods will .cast better as mots are made for lighter weights as posted on the rod.

Are you sure you meant to say 1/16th oz baits,  there are some seriously high end BFS reels out there that do not cast a bait this light with any accuracy or distance using high end rods specifically designed for ultra light baits,  


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 

I still haven't bought the Daiwa yet, but I did learn how to spell Daiwa since this Thread was started and many other things. In the near future, I will be down sizing a bit and if I keep my MBR842, I may get a Daiwa for it to throw weightless plastics.


fishing user avatarCgrinder reply : 
  On 7/23/2014 at 6:27 PM, John G said:

I still haven't bought the Daiwa yet, but I did learn how to spell Daiwa since this Thread was started and many other things. In the near future, I will be down sizing a bit and if I keep my MBR842, I may get a Daiwa for it to throw weightless plastics.

 

Nah MBR842's are terrible. Send it to me; my Sol will "dispose" of it for you.  :eyebrows:


fishing user avatarjamesholton reply : 

I say go for it.  Doubt you will be disappointed.

 

 

oh i am! love the "stealthy" look of the mx. i'm thinkin that with the shallow sv spool would be just awesome!


fishing user avatarToledoEF reply : 

T3 1016 great reel, will cast pretty much anything you want to cast.


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 

For the daiwa nuts, if you were gonna have one highend daiwa platform, would it be the classic td-ito or one of the zondas, specifically the hedgehog...


fishing user avatarJ Francho reply : 

For me, it be an Alphas or PX form factor reel.


fishing user avatarJeziHogg reply : 

Pixy


fishing user avataraavery2 reply : 
  On 8/28/2014 at 9:38 PM, thehooligan said:

For the daiwa nuts, if you were gonna have one highend daiwa platform, would it be the classic td-ito or one of the zondas, specifically the hedgehog...

Something about the green Ito that speaks to me.


fishing user avatarbasseditor reply : 

I know this thread kinda ran out. I found it by searching Pixy.

Would you prefer to buy a Pixy or spend less on a different reel and spend the difference super tuning it?

I need something for finesse that's not a spinning reel. I'm going to put it on a 2 power (medium light) 7'3" rod.


fishing user avatarWar Eagle 44 reply : 
  On 8/28/2014 at 9:38 PM, thehooligan said:

For the daiwa nuts, if you were gonna have one highend daiwa platform, would it be the classic td-ito or one of the zondas, specifically the hedgehog...

 

 

Zonda Hedgehog for sure for me, the Alphas is the only Daiwa reel I still own. I tried quite a few of Daiwa's high end reels some years back, TDZ, Pixy, Steez, and of course the Alphas. Every one of those reels were great, I probably fished my TDZ and Alphas the most. I put in a good amount of time with the Pixy as well though. After everything was said and done there was just something about the Alphas that set it apart from the others for me.  

 

I know this really doesn't help you all that much but the TDZ would be my second choice. I never had an ITO so I'm not exactly sure how much "better" it was than the TDZ but I know I've read tons of great things about them over the years.


fishing user avatar5fishlimit reply : 
  On 9/3/2014 at 10:16 AM, basseditor said:

I know this thread kinda ran out. I found it by searching Pixy.

Would you prefer to buy a Pixy or spend less on a different reel and spend the difference super tuning it?

I need something for finesse that's not a spinning reel. I'm going to put it on a 2 power (medium light) 7'3" rod.

Get a type r and you'll have both!


fishing user avatarbasseditor reply : 
  On 9/3/2014 at 11:25 AM, 5fishlimit said:

Get a type r and you'll have both!

Not sure I follow. Pixy type R? Some other type R? I got some Tatula type R, but not sure they meet my needs totally.

How do they compare to other $4-500 reels?


fishing user avatarbasseditor reply : 
  On 9/3/2014 at 11:54 AM, basseditor said:

Not sure I follow. Pixy type R? Some other type R? I got some Tatula type R, but not sure they meet my needs totally.

How do they compare to other $4-500 reels?

I mean how Pixy R compares to other options for $500?


fishing user avatarWfo123 reply : 

I just bought barely used fuego and aphas type f with a aftermarket spool. I'll let u know if either of those are finesse .


fishing user avatar5fishlimit reply : 
  On 9/3/2014 at 11:54 AM, basseditor said:

Not sure I follow. Pixy type R? Some other type R? I got some Tatula type R, but not sure they meet my needs totally.

How do they compare to other $4-500 reels?

I meant the pixy type r. I believe they can be bought for about $350 on fleabay.




2089

related Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots topic

Ultimate senko rod
shimano baitcasting reels quality
Johnny Morris Carbonlite
Alternative to G Loomis products
Spinning rod love!
The Best Is Not A Requirement
Steez A vs Metanium vs Bantam
New Curado On Zona..?
Lews Vs. Shimano
Higher End Shimano Or Lew's?
How necessary is a baitcast rig?
Curado 200G Vs 200E
Tackle Tour Reviews Bps Pro Qualifier
Did I Get A Fake G Loomis Nrx? Help!
Daiwa finally lost it
New G Loomis Rod
St. Croix Rod Bargain -- Steel Steel Steel!!
Does It Really Matter To You?
Not Much Talk About Duckett
Ardent Reels



previous topic
Future Of The Curado -- Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots
next topic
Ultimate senko rod -- Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots