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What's The Best Reel You Have Ever Used? 2024


fishing user avatarGreeneye8181 reply : 

I've used dozens of high quality reels over the years. Great ones that stand out to me are the Core50MG, Zillion Type R, and Z2020.

 

I have to say, I previously owned a Metanium MG7 with upgraded bearings and I've yet to use a smoother better caster. I think I might start looking to buy another.


fishing user avatarChance_Taker4 reply : 

I haven't used too many high end reels $165 is the limit my wife set me at. So the best reel I have ever used was the Tatula Type-R. I have used Revo S and SX, Shimano Curado and Citicas. I also have a Quantum Smoke 150 and Exo 100 that I got used on here that I like a lot but nothing compares to the type-R I have. The close second would be The Gen 2 Revo STX.


fishing user avatarCatch and Grease reply : 

So far the diawa tatula is my favorite reel....

Its the best reel I've used for 100$


fishing user avatarOregon Native reply : 

Core/Stella .... have had for number of years and really don't need to experiment.  But then if money wasn't an option I would probably experiment.


fishing user avatarGrantman83 reply : 

I have also owned a good amount of high end stuff and so far Top 3 would be.

Chronarch D7 (I have two). One has an avail spool/upgraded bearings with 30lb and it can literally throw ANYTHING with a single brake on. I think the combination of the aluminum frame/sideplate and bearings is what puts it above the core for me.

Alphas Type R - all purpose finesse baitcaster

Zillion Type R - all purpose heavy application reel....soooooo smooth

---------------------

Top marks also go to my pixzilla, zillion 50th anniversary and core 50.


fishing user avatarJohn G reply : 

Antares HG


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 

Smoothest would be the new conquest 101.

 

Lightest and all around great reel would be the aldebaran bfs xg

 

Reel that can do everything, Core 51

 

 

Give me a core 51 and bfs xg and im good to go... 


fishing user avatarHogsticker reply : 

Shimano Excense DC. I've never spent over 300 dollars though. I can tell you this. If Daiwa made an aluminum T3 with no pop up hood it would take the cake as far as I'm concerned.


fishing user avatarDwight Hottle reply : 

Low profile is the Antares HG

 

 

gallery_12184_78_12202.jpg

 

 

 

Round reel is the Conquest 2014

 

gallery_12184_730_230676.jpg


fishing user avataraavery2 reply : 

Revo Elite IB - This reel has no weakness

 

Revo MGX - Great caster, very smooth

 

Daiwa Zillion -  It's a Zillion, put a 100M spool in these and they are casting machines.

 

 

Others that I like a lot, Core 100, Daiwa Sol, Daiwa Tatula


fishing user avatarfishballer06 reply : 

My two Chronarch ci4's. 


fishing user avatarGreeneye8181 reply : 
  On 8/20/2014 at 8:53 PM, Grantman83 said:

I have also owned a good amount of high end stuff and so far Top 3 would be.

Chronarch D7 (I have two). One has an avail spool/upgraded bearings with 30lb and it can literally throw ANYTHING with a single brake on. I think the combination of the aluminum frame/sideplate and bearings is what puts it above the core for me.

Alphas Type R - all purpose finesse baitcaster

Zillion Type R - all purpose heavy application reel....soooooo smooth

---------------------

Top marks also go to my pixzilla, zillion 50th anniversary and core 50.

 

I've actually never tried the Alphas but I always hear good things.

The Chronarch 100D7 is amazing too. Very similar to the Metanium MG7.

I also put an Avail spool and Air bearings in mine that I recently bought. I forgot to get extra bearings for the upgraded handle I got for it though and will use the original knobs so I am patiently waiting for the knob bearings I ordered. Can't wait to fish it when I get it. Plan to use it for finesse applications.


fishing user avatarroadwarrior reply : 
  On 8/20/2014 at 8:52 PM, Oregon Native said:

Core/Stella .... have had for number of years and really don't need to experiment.  But then if money wasn't an option I would probably experiment.

 

I like those choices, too!

 

 

 

:fishing-026:


fishing user avatarKevO reply : 

I've got a core 100mg super tuned its hard to beat that reel.


fishing user avatarOnthePotomac reply : 

My three Curado 100B's still humming and my new Chronarch 150's.


fishing user avatarJ Francho reply : 

Zebco 33. It served me very well before I knew any better, lol.


fishing user avatarSJex reply : 

Core 50mg7/TD-Z.


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 

Can't afford any of that high end gear.  Just one reel is too tough a choice.  I love my 50th Anniversary Zillion, Purple Alphas and tuned Curado 51E (or the factory one for that matter).  The Chronarch 100B is another great reel I just started using.  I am also very fond of the T3 1016 variants.

 

I don't know how you guys can pick just one.  I'm sure if money were no object I could add several more to my favorites list.  :teeth:


fishing user avatarChance_Taker4 reply : 

Man there are way too many Shimano users on the forum. :grin:  Where are the Abu and Diawa guys at.


fishing user avatar5fishlimit reply : 

My Daiwa PXL-R is the best I've ever used. Smooth, lightweight, and puts a smile on my face everytime I hold it.


fishing user avatarRaul reply : 

All my reels are the best I have ever used.


fishing user avatarChris at Tech reply : 
  On 8/20/2014 at 9:44 PM, Dwight Hottle said:

Low profile is the Antares HG

 

 

gallery_12184_78_12202.jpg

 

 

 

Round reel is the Conquest 2014

 

gallery_12184_730_230676.jpg

You know Dwight, I think your results on the water would improve if you invested a bit in some halfway decent equipment ;)


fishing user avatarrobster80 reply : 

the new curado i is my fav as of now


fishing user avatarstk reply : 

My Shimano Chronarch Ci4+, best thing is that my wife got it for me.  Otherwise I wouldn't have bought such a nice reel for myself.


fishing user avatarbootytrain reply : 

Metanium XG, it excels at everything.


fishing user avatarArv reply : 

Currently my Aldebaran bfs xg. My Core 51 should be here tomorrow.

 tumblr_mc9bnjrZIw1qam5vs.gif


fishing user avatarCapt.Bob reply : 

Shimano Sustain spinning, and Team Lew's Gold casting, that is for bass size gear. for pike muskie salmon and trolling, Calcutta 400TE, but a little large for most Bass and Walleye fishing!!


fishing user avatarfishballer06 reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 12:30 AM, Chance Brown said:

Man there are way too many Shimano users on the forum. :grin:  Where are the Abu and Diawa guys at.

 

 

They're in the flea market section, trying to upgrade to a Shimano.


fishing user avatarGreeneye8181 reply : 

Looks - Daiwa

Features - Daiwa

Technology - Daiwa

"Fishability"- Shimano


fishing user avataredfitzvb reply : 

I have never fished a Lew's that I didn't like


fishing user avatarnew2BC4bass reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 3:19 AM, fishballer06 said:

They're in the flea market section, trying to upgrade to a Shimano.

 

That's funny!  :teeth:

 

Chance Brown:  Slightly over half of my reels are Daiwas.  Rest are Abu round, Revo, Shimano, Lews, BPS and Pflueger.  I don't dare say too much about my Diawas here.  :laugh5:


fishing user avatarrippin-lips reply : 

Steez w/ 1016 spool and zillion w/ 100m spool.

I'm also impressed by the tatula for the money. In my area they're aren't many enthusiast that I've encountered so I'm basically on my own. I'm sure if I joined and made friends with any of the local clubs I'd meet more but as of now my friends think I'm crazy. They should meet some of you and they'll realize I'm in the minority haha


fishing user avatarhzzhangc reply : 

Easily Daiwa TD Z with so many choices of spools.


fishing user avatarMike L reply : 

Curado I

Curado E

JM Sig Series

In that order

Mike


fishing user avatarTopwaterspook reply : 

Calais DC 201


fishing user avatarbigbill reply : 

Spinning Reels,

Okuma Exiptor

FIN-NOR AHAB or FIN-NOR LITE

VIVA

GLOBE

US REEL SUPER CASTERS 180/240

Bait Casters, I don't use that much.

Quantum Code Red

US REEL SUPER CASTERS HIBDON/HOUSTON


fishing user avatarcjrich reply : 

Calcutta 201 TE DC


fishing user avatarOK Bass Hunter reply : 

Shimano Conquest 250 DC or Calcutta 200 TE GT


fishing user avatarTywithay reply : 

Antares 100HG, Stella 2500FE


fishing user avatarDwight Hottle reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 1:29 AM, Chris at Tech said:

You know Dwight, I think your results on the water would improve if you invested a bit in some halfway decent equipment ;)[/quote

Chris just trying to look good while I'm getting skunked.


fishing user avatarFishTank reply : 

Smoothness>  Shimano Calais

 

Function> Shimano Core

 

Power> Shimano Calcutta


fishing user avatarAlonerankin2 reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 3:19 AM, fishballer06 said:

They're in the flea market section, trying to upgrade to a Shimano.

Smart man!!


fishing user avatargreentrout reply : 

Zebco 808

 

Old school basser...


fishing user avatarNick49 reply : 

I have a couple Curado Es and three Tatulas that I love.


fishing user avatarWRB reply : 

The best fresh water bait casting reel that I have ever owned was my first reel at age 12, 1955; Langley Lure Cast. Jason Lucas recommended this reel to me and still have it. This little reel casts 50 yards with Dacron braid with ease, incredible light weight bullet proof knuckle buster, love this reel.

Tom


fishing user avatarkickerfish1 reply : 

Daiwa Alphas ITO custom and modified to the max - Full upgrade - Most palmable and smoothest reel I have used

 

Daiwa TDZ 100m US Trails - Again fully modified and custom - Casting distance is excellent for such a light reel without using a DC system or complex breaking system

 

Shimano Core 50mg7 / Scorpion 1000XT - For all around usability they are among my favorites

 

Shimano Chronarch 100SF - Casting distance was phenominal and the reel is smooth


fishing user avatarbass1980 reply : 

So far my Steez with a RCS 1016 spool is the best I've used. Smooth, refined, and cast so much better with the 1016 spool.


fishing user avatarSlipknot_Fan666 reply : 

Time for hate. :D I've only owned a handful of reels and all were low costs. My best reel so far is my Quantum Accurist. Until I get a better reel, I will continue to call it the best I've owned. Mainly because it is.


fishing user avatarZimobass reply : 

Each and every Shimano reel I have owned over the last 30 years has been special, but the Calais 100A, Calais 200A, Calais 200DC and now the Antares HG are the best.


fishing user avatarBluebasser86 reply : 

My favorite would probably be the old Curado 200B. For a pure workhorse reel that was affordable and could do just about anything and was easy to work on, pretty tough reel to beat.

 

If they hold up like I think they will the new Curado I will be at the top of the list too, man they are sweet reels.

 

For spinning reels the Stradic C14 is awesome, so is the Pfluegar Supreme XT. 


fishing user avatarJosh Smith reply : 

Guys, I'll tell ya':  I've been on a quest to find the "best for me" reel this year.

 

I keep coming back to the Abu Garcia 5000 and 5500 reels, both with bearings and bushings.  All are 4.7:1 ratios.  This translates into about 23 IPT for this type of reel.

 

When I need faster, I do have a 5600MagTrax that is 6.3:1, I believe.  In addition to the magnetic brake, I installed the centrifugal brakes of the standard 5600.  It's a really good reel but just a bit large for my uses.

 

I'm waiting on payment from a commercial contract to come in.  I'll be ordering a 5500c3.  After very careful study and consideration, I believe this will be the best reel for my uses (in addition to the old 5000 and 5500). 

 

The Shimano reels intrigue me.  I will probably end up getting one; I'm researching them right now in fact.  They are rare around here, though, and I've not been able to lay hands on one, let alone try one out.  I need to make a trip to a larger city and find a sale sample or something.

 

Regards,

 

Josh


fishing user avatarbmlum415 reply : 

Best ever used is my tricked out shimano metanium xg. I would like to own an Antares and try one as well. For spinning it would have to be my daiwa certate 2506. That reel is beyond smooth.


fishing user avatarSirSnookalot reply : 

Quantum cabo 40


fishing user avatar*Hootie reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 12:11 PM, WRB said:

The best fresh water bait casting reel that I have ever owned was my first reel at age 12, 1955; Langley Lure Cast. Jason Lucas recommended this reel to me and still have it. This little reel casts 50 yards with Dacron braid with ease, incredible light weight bullet proof knuckle buster, love this reel.

Tom

 

You mean, like this?

 

 

Hootie

 


fishing user avatarWdyCrankbait reply : 

Quantum 100 EXO PT   the sheer distance I got in casting was ridiculous

 

But, I did pre-order the new Lew's Tournament Lite Speed Spool casting reel.  Lew's reputation at 5.8 oz, I have a lot of high hopes for that reel.


fishing user avatarJ Francho reply : 

Probably the only reels I currently use that never seem to screw up and cast consistently well are my TD-X HSDL pitching reels. They are beat to hell, and still tick like new. I'll give a nod to my Chronarch Es and the Optimus hand tuned, though I haven't had them nearly as long as the TD-Xs.


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 

Even though im a diehard shimano guy, and ive dabbled with plenty of daiwas, ill most likely give another alphas a shot as they are great reels. Had the ito, type f, and purple model. Would consider giving an alphas R a shot. One of the only legendary daiwas i havent tried yet is the td-z, also on my list.


fishing user avatarfrogflogger reply : 

Shimano calais was the smoothest reel I've owned - it was flawless - I gave it to my grandson after years of use and it's still butter smooth.


fishing user avatarSmallmouth Hunter reply : 

Curado 201e. Better than any daiwa I've ever used including tdz r+ and zillion R. Kick myself everyday for getting rid of it but I will have another soon.


fishing user avatarroadwarrior reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 8:02 PM, J Francho said:

Probably the only reels I currently use that never seem to screw up and cast consistently well are my TD-X HSDL pitching reels. They are beat to hell, and still tick like new. I'll give a nod to my Chronarch Es and the Optimus hand tuned, though I haven't had them nearly as long as the TD-Xs.

 

I have only fished the Pinnacle Optimus XiHS for a few months, but it has the potential

to be among the best reels I have ever fished. Time will tell.

 

 

 

 

:fishing-026:


fishing user avatarolegs reply : 

Chronarch CI4 and Chronarch E.


fishing user avatarfisherrw reply : 

Core. It's an AWSOME reel.


fishing user avatarCgrinder reply : 

TD Fuego with a 100M spool. Zoom!

I would say Conquest 51 but I'm not yet brave enough to fish mine. (Don't tell Matt!)


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 11:53 PM, Cgrinder said:

TD Fuego with a 100M spool. Zoom!

I would say Conquest 51 but I'm not yet brave enough to fish mine. (Don't tell Matt!)

 

Haha, if your scared to fish it send it back my way  :grin:


fishing user avatarhzzhangc reply : 
  On 8/21/2014 at 8:16 PM, thehooligan said:

Even though im a diehard shimano guy, and ive dabbled with plenty of daiwas, ill most likely give another alphas a shot as they are great reels. Had the ito, type f, and purple model. Would consider giving an alphas R a shot. One of the only legendary daiwas i havent tried yet is the td-z, also on my list.

How about try a Zonda?


fishing user avataradam32 reply : 

Spinning, Daiwa ss1300. Get a few extra bail springs and your good to go for many years.

For casting reels I'd have to go with the Daiwa Zillion.


fishing user avatarbaluga reply : 

Conquest 100 is pretty much all I need for a reel.  Not too small not too big.  Can take the beating for both salt and fresh water.



fishing user avatarJeff H reply : 

Team Daiwa Advantage HSTA.  This reel comes very very close to the performance level of the Zillion but for half the cost.  The ultimate bargain was the Cabela's Prodigy A.  The only difference between the Prodigy A and the HSTA was the Prodigy had no bearings in the handle grips.  Big deal.  At $79 on sale it was the ultimate score!  


fishing user avatarthehooligan reply : 
  On 8/22/2014 at 6:02 AM, hzzhangc said:

How about try a Zonda?

I almost pulled the trigger on a hedgehog not too long ago. I liked the fact of getting a regular & finesse spool, and a cool looking paint job. Talked myself out of it though. My alde bfs feels better in hand, and I have a ktf spool that will perform better... I might consider an alphas platform or td ito in the future for a project though.




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