Which "SV" is for me. 2024

Fishin Dad reply :

Hey All,

I am really wanting to try a new Daiwa SV reel. I have 6 Lews baitcaster reels, an Okuma Helios, and a few other baitcasters. I would like to use it for skipping weightless senkos and casting other weightless or lighter baits. So question is...........which one? Tatula, zillion, 103, 105?? I am a teacher so money is somewhat tight, but let me know your thoughts under $300. Thanks a lot. You all have unbelievable knowledge.

Fishing Dad

kickerfish1 reply :

For under $300 you have the Alphas SV 105, SV 103, Tat Ct SV, and the Zillion SV TW. I would probably opt for an Alphas SV 105. It is a great mag finesse bait caster and the lightest of all of them. I am pretty sure all 4 could toss a weightless plastic like a senko or fluke just fine.

The Tat CT SV is the newest SV reel and also the cheapest of the 3. The Zillions SV TW gives you a few more features and some consider it the best distance caster of the 3. The SV103 is being discontinued but has the most aftermarket spool and gear swaps.

Finnz922 reply :

SV105 or SV103

fishwizzard reply :

The sv105 or the JDM version are pretty easy find for around $200 online right now.

Fishin Dad reply :

What do the 103 or 105 offer that the Tatula does not have? The hype with Tatula (and the Daiwa quality I have discovered and most of their reels) is what got me thinking of getting one of these. I am totally up for getting any of them, just curious. Thanks again!

Big-Bass reply :

Get a 103 if you can find one or the Zillion. Although the Tatula is a really nice reel...just got to check one out yesterday. Or if you can find an SS SV from Japan for the right price, you will like that. Then there's the Steez!

The Tatala SV might be the best bang for the buck for regular retail. If you plan on using the reel for general use, the 105 drag might be a little light. Honestly, the Tatula SV is awesome and you would be super happy. If you have the extra coin, try the 103 or the Zillion.

rippin-lips reply :

On 4/3/2017 at 8:43 AM, Big-Bass said:

Get a 103 if you can find one or the Zillion. Although the Tatula is a really nice reel...just got to check one out yesterday. Or if you can find an SS SV from Japan for the right price, you will like that. Then there's the Steez!

The Tatala SV might be the best bang for the buck for regular retail. If you plan on using the reel for general use, the 105 drag might be a little light. Honestly, the Tatula SV is awesome and you would be super happy. If you have the extra coin, try the 103 or the Zillion.

SS SV stinks in comparison to the SV103 or Alphas SV '105'

It's very overbraked and also has a single disc drag stack that is pretty dang weak. That reel is somewhat of a flop.

On 4/3/2017 at 6:05 AM, kickerfish1 said:

For under $300 you have the Alphas SV 105, SV 103, Tat Ct SV, and the Zillion SV TW. I would probably opt for an Alphas SV 105. It is a great mag finesse bait caster and the lightest of all of them. I am pretty sure all 4 could toss a weightless plastic like a senko or fluke just fine.

The Tat CT SV is the newest SV reel and also the cheapest of the 3. The Zillions SV TW gives you a few more features and some consider it the best distance caster of the 3. The SV103 is being discontinued but has the most aftermarket spool and gear swaps.

Zillion SV TW uses the same size spool as the SV103 so it has just as many spool options.

For the OP what do you want from the reel? The 105 has an 80mm handle which I don't prefer so there's more money if you prefer a longer handle. It doesn't hold as much line as the 103. The 103 is a bit heavier but is a great all around reel. Longer handle and a bit more line capacity. I own them both and it would be tough for me to choose a favorite since they both have their place in my lineup. For an all purpose do everything work horse reel I'd pick a 103 though. I can't say anything about the new CT SV because I don't know anyone who's had any decent amount of time using one yet. I'm sure it'll be a good one though and if I only had $200 to spend full retail I'd go that route.

Fishin Dad reply :

Thanks rippin lips! If I remember correctly, I saw a post by you about Daiwa reels and it seems you know a ton about them. I appreciate your feedback! Looking forward to getting a Daiwa!!!

Columbia Craw reply :

You Just missed the TW Classic sale. The SV 103 at 202.00 and the SV 105 at 179.00. I have an SV103 which is awesome and have the SV105 on order. It should be here tomorrow. The SS SV is a nice reel but just a bit over braked for really true finesse work. They are all tremendous reels. I agree with RL about the 80 MM handle.

Big-Bass reply :

My SS SV suits me well. I find casting just fine. I also have a Zillion and an SV103. I have never found distance to be an issue at all. All in all, the SV spools are awesome!

offsidewing reply :

I've just recently started using Daiwa baitcasters just to see what the SV spool is about. I picked up a Steez and the SV103. The SV103 is a heck of a reel and is very versatile. I've only fished them both a little bit, but the SV103 is a great recommendation. The Steez is out of this world.

Tim Kelly reply :

I have an SS SV and a SV 105. They're both excellent for trouble free casting. I would use the SS SV more if the drag wasn't so weak on it though. I think a Tat SV or Zillion SV would be pretty much perfect for most things. The TWS is great if you're fishing thick line, and not detrimental at any other time. The Zillion has the classic style of Daiwa spool without a full axle, where the tatula has a full axle. Not sure if there's much practical difference, but it's maybe a thing to consider?

Big-Bass reply :

I have to lock the drag down a little more than my other reels on the SS SV but don't find it too bad. Did I get a lucky one? I got mine at the TW sale for a really good price and now they are sold out.

Tim Kelly reply :

I believe they're only designed to about 7lb of drag, so if you're getting that or more, then I would say you are fortunate. No problem for finesse techniques, but if you're using it in weed and have to drag a weed ball back with your fish, it's a pain in the backside!

rippin-lips reply :

Plus it's not really a finesse reel. At least not with the stock spool. The spool holds 90 yards of #16 line. That's hardly finesse territory. So why give it a crap single disc drag with a spool that's geared for all purpose use. They should of used a shallower spool and then it would make sense with the drag. It also feels like it's made by Tonka with the use of all the zaion on that reel. It's the one Jdm Daiwa I'd pass on.

dam0007 reply :

I don't know as much as Rippin as far as the technicalities, But for what you describe the Zillion SV TW is the way to go. I own all the ones mentioned (except SS SV) and for exact stuff you plan on using it for I use several of mine. Also to keep in mind it's offered in 5 different gear ratios, 5:1, 6:1, 7:1, 8:1(JDM only) and 9:1. Can be had around $245/$250 across the web. And if you want to get extra finnessy grab some Hedgehog Air bearings down the road.

SV 103 would be second choice for those applications but first choice for heavier flipping the reel is powerful!

Cgrinder reply :

Sounds like 3/8 oz and under primarily? Alphas SV (SV105). $202 from Digitaka at time of posting. Excellent reel. Everyone should have an Alphas platform at some point.

Want to keep it 'merican? Get the Tatula SV during one of the tax day sales later this month. I hate, hate, hate the stupid T-wing and I'm going to probably end up with one anyway. It looks like a lot of reel for $200.

Angry John reply :

you have been given all the solid advice. I love the alphas platform so that will get my first vote with the new 7.2 gears and sv spool its everything i ever wanted. I also own the sv103 and i have and am a big fan of the zillions. I have no desire or experience with the new twing and my reels cast and perform great. Its not a money thing i just dont buy the hype.

Bass_Fishing_Socal reply :

If I'm gonna buy another daiwa that would be alphas sv 105. I love the size and weight of this reel. The only problem is line capacity but that what you got with sv spool.

I like tatula CT but it is just a bit too big for my hand, and that goes with sv 103 zillion which the same platform with CT?

FryDog62 reply :

I just went thru the same decisioning on Daiwa SV reels. I spent a lot of time at the Daiwa booth at the Minneapolis Sportshow in March. As I was talking to the Daiwa rep, James Lindner joined in the conversation. He and Al recently posted videos on their FB page about the SV spools and anti-backlash.

I needed one reel for skipping Senkos and flukes, and another set up for skipping jigs. The conclusion was some of the more finesse Daiwa SV reels were very good but had smaller handles (80mm) and may be a little frustrating at times the way I fish vs. 90mm handles. So that narrowed down to the Zillion or new Tat for me. Steez was nice too but out of my price range...

The Daiwa rep said with the floating spool on the Zillion, it would be a slight preference for skipping light plastics. He said the Tat would resist backlash well too, but maybe slight edge in terms of casting distance.

So I bought one of each with the 20% discount at the show. Been out skipping with both of them and have the Senko on the Zillion and a Strike King skipping jig on the Tat. Takes a little fine tuning, but so far seems to be working well practing in a local pond before the season opens here in Minnesota.

Neighbors think I'm crazy, I think I've heard "Catch dinner yet?" At least 20 times... but hey, gotta get the technique down with my new surgically repaired wrist and new SV reels...

lmbfisherman reply :

On 4/4/2017 at 8:45 PM, FryDog62 said:

I just went thru the same decisioning on Daiwa SV reels. I spent a lot of time at the Daiwa booth at the Minneapolis Sportshow in March. As I was talking to the Daiwa rep, James Lindner joined in the conversation. He and Al recently posted videos on their FB page about the SV spools and anti-backlash.

I needed one reel for skipping Senkos and flukes, and another set up for skipping jigs. The conclusion was some of the more finesse Daiwa SV reels were very good but had smaller handles (80mm) and may be a little frustrating at times the way Infish vs. 90mm handles. So that narrowed down to the Zillion or new Tat for me. Steez was nice too but out of my price range...

The Daiwa rep said with the floating spool on the Zillion, it would be a slight preference for skipping light plastics. He said the Tat would resist backlash well too, but maybe slight edge in terms of casting distance.

So so I bought one of each with the 20% discount at the show. Been out skipping with both of them and have the Senko on Zillion and a Strike King skipping jig on the Tat. Takes a little fine tuning, but so far seems to be working well practing in a local pond before the season opens here in Minnesota.

Neighbors think I'm crazy, I think I've heard "Catch dinner yet?" At least 20 times... but hey, gotta get the technique down with my new surgically repaied wrist and new SV reels...

This is a good review. I am interested in the new Tatula for the exact same thing you are going to use it for. Once you get more time with it, I would appreciate it if you can let me know your thoughts.

BaitFinesse reply :

On 4/4/2017 at 8:45 PM, FryDog62 said:

I just went thru the same decisioning on Daiwa SV reels. I spent a lot of time at the Daiwa booth at the Minneapolis Sportshow in March. As I was talking to the Daiwa rep, James Lindner joined in the conversation. He and Al recently posted videos on their FB page about the SV spools and anti-backlash.

I needed one reel for skipping Senkos and flukes, and another set up for skipping jigs. The conclusion was some of the more finesse Daiwa SV reels were very good but had smaller handles (80mm) and may be a little frustrating at times the way I fish vs. 90mm handles. So that narrowed down to the Zillion or new Tat for me. Steez was nice too but out of my price range...

The Daiwa rep said with the floating spool on the Zillion, it would be a slight preference for skipping light plastics. He said the Tat would resist backlash well too, but maybe slight edge in terms of casting distance.

So I bought one of each with the 20% discount at the show. Been out skipping with both of them and have the Senko on the Zillion and a Strike King skipping jig on the Tat. Takes a little fine tuning, but so far seems to be working well practing in a local pond before the season opens here in Minnesota.

Neighbors think I'm crazy, I think I've heard "Catch dinner yet?" At least 20 times... but hey, gotta get the technique down with my new surgically repaied wrist and new SV reels...

80mm handles can be replaced with 90mm for under $30. Carbon fiber handles even. I wouldn't let something as trivial as handle length sway you when there are tons of handles on the market in various lengths for cheap.

Fishin Dad reply :

Thanks everyone! Sounds like I can't go wrong with any SV. Hey Frydog, I would love it if you would post after a little more time with both reels. And let me know how that skipping is going!

FryDog62 reply :

On 4/5/2017 at 9:17 AM, Fishin Dad said:

Thanks everyone! Sounds like I can't go wrong with any SV. Hey Frydog, I would love it if you would post after a little more time with both reels. And let me know how that skipping is going!

Was out again tonight. Anything at least 3/16 oz or higher is skipping pretty well and for distance without backlash. Weightless and 1/8 oz also skipping without backlash but at lower weights you don't get quite the distance as a spinning reel if you have the brake at 10 (out of 20) or higher.

Both reels really work well and are fun to skip at 1/4 oz or more, I've been using a 3/16 and 1/4 oz Fin-tech skip jig + plastic, and also a 3/8 oz Strike King Skipping jig + Rage Bug trailer. The Fin-techs have a bunch of different sizes but I sure wish they had a screwlock like the Strike King jig does, keeps the plastic on tight without having to futz with super glue. A "friend" of mine is working on a custom version of the Fin-tech with screwlock vs. centering pin. Looking forward to trying that next...

So far I haven't had to ice the repaired wrist down after skipping practice

BaitFinesse reply :

If you would like to skip 1/8 oz and under look into the Ray's Studio DIY spools. They're Air Brake spools like the SV but are lighter, shallower and have a thinner inductor to brake less hard with light weight baits. They're on Aliexpress but can be found on Ebay at a higher price.

Fishin Dad reply :

Hey Lowrange,

That sounds interesting. Do these spools fit Daiwa reels or any reels? Can a knucklehead like me who is not a reel guru figure it out? If it would help me skip with a baitcaster or cast lighter baits, that's my interest.

thanks

BaitFinesse reply :

On 4/6/2017 at 8:39 AM, Fishin Dad said:

Hey Lowrange,

That sounds interesting. Do these spools fit Daiwa reels or any reels? Can a knucklehead like me who is not a reel guru figure it out? If it would help me skip with a baitcaster or cast lighter baits, that's my interest.

thanks

They're ultra shallow light weight spools made for BFS 'bait finesse system' and work well baits under 1/4 ounce. They operate like the SV spools but don't brake quite as hard. There's a 30 page mega thread in the reels section of the Tackle Tour forums if you would like more info

Fishin Dad reply :

I will check that out. Thanks again!

TX-Deluxe reply :

On 4/6/2017 at 12:51 AM, LowRange said:

If you would like to skip 1/8 oz and under look into the Ray's Studio DIY spools. They're Air Brake spools like the SV but are lighter, shallower and have a thinner inductor to brake less hard with light weight baits. They're on Aliexpress but can be found on Ebay at a higher price.

Explain more buddy

BaitFinesse reply :

On 4/6/2017 at 9:25 AM, TX-Deluxe said:

Explain more buddy

There's a big thread up on TT in reels section. They're shallow BFS spools that operate through Air Brake twisting inductor like the Daiwa Air spools and SV spools but have a thinner, tapered inductor that brakes less hard than the Daiwa spools. They are made for the Alphas, Pixy, Tatula, Tatula CT, T3, 103 and TD Zillion platforms. There are also a VBS shimano spool for 50e reels, SVS spools for Casitas and Curado/Scorpion 70 and a few linear mag brake ABU spools including Black Max reels. There are a bunch of color parts and carbon handles too.

TX-Deluxe reply :

BFS?

BaitFinesse reply :

On 4/6/2017 at 10:34 AM, TX-Deluxe said:

BFS?

'Bait finesse system' Baitcasting gear made for light finesse presentations. Often sub 1/4 ounce and even sub 1/8 into UL territory.

TX-Deluxe reply :

On 4/6/2017 at 10:38 AM, LowRange said:

'Bait finesse system' Baitcasting gear made for light finesse presentations. Often sub 1/4 ounce and even sub 1/8 into UL territory.

thanks

Yudo1 reply :

These "diy" spools from ray's studio are the real deal. They transform any reel into a bfs machine. I have one in my pixy and it makes it even better and they are pretty inexpensive compared stuff from japan.

Fishin Dad reply :

Anyone have any more experience with the SV reels now that winter is finally over. Going to buy this week. Too many options for my first Daiwa reel. Thanks

QUAKEnSHAKE reply :

On 4/3/2017 at 8:43 AM, Fishin Dad said:

What do the 103 or 105 offer that the Tatula does not have? The hype with Tatula (and the Daiwa quality I have discovered and most of their reels) is what got me thinking of getting one of these. I am totally up for getting any of them, just curious. Thanks again!

They are made in different countries. The Tatulas are made in Thailand the SV105 &103 are made in Japan.

basseditor reply :

Too much info to absorb it all in one read thru. Thanks guys.

I bought Tat SV at Bassmaster Classic, but haven't used it much yet. Need to get to the dock-filled lakes soon.

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Which "SV" is for me. 2024

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