With which reel would you treat yourself? 2024

freelancer27 reply :

Hi all,

I got a little bonus from work that I want to use for something 'ridiculous'. What I mean with this is an amazing baitcast reel.

My arsenal of reels contains at this point:

* Lews Inshore 2

* Lews Team Lew's Custom Pro Speed Spool

* Daiwa Coastal

* Shimano Curado 200 I Casting Reel

* Bass Pro Extreme Baitcast reel

I am looking for something in the Daiwa Steez, Shimano Metanium kind of region.

Those reels would ususally be totally out of my price range. But I am thinking, why not do something 'ridiculous' ?!

So a couple of questions for people who have experience with that kind of reel.

1. Is it a difference to the kind of reels that I have in terms of castability?
2. How is the long term quality of those reels? My Inshore for example already starts to wiggle a bit. I would like to keep that reel for 10 years at least.
3. Is it worth to spend that kind of money?
4. Would you buy it again?
5. What reels fall into that category that you would recommend?
6. Where to buy the reel? I was planning to buy via TW, but if there is a place where it is cheaper and still safe, I would be interested!

Hope my questions make sense.

Thank you for your help!

WPCfishing reply :

All my 11 reels are Lews... I'm no help to you unless you think you could be happy with a Mag Lite.

Yudo1 reply :

1. Higher end reels have a more refined feel to them. They retrieve smoothly and cast with less effort. They may cast further in some instances.

2. They are built with tighter tolerance so they should last longer. I have some high end reels that are 12 years old and still as smooth as new.

3. For me they are worth it.

4. Yes, I'm addicted to nice reels.

5. Any high end daiwa or shimano. met mgl, met 13, met dc, steez, conquest sv 103 etc.

6. The tackle trap or japan lure shop for jdm.

bassbassontherange reply :

Dangerous territory you're about to tread.

"Worth it" is such a relative and objective question, it's going to be different for different people. For me, I spent years slowly upgrading before I reached a point when I could first afford to buy my first high end reel. After that, all bets were off... I just found ways to buy sweet gear. If you're an enthusiast like me, and enjoy the gear as much as the fishing, a top end reel is absolutely worth it. I love fishing my Mets, Aldebarans, supertuned Chronarchs, Steezes, and more exotic reels like Exsence DC's and Conquests. I still use Curados, Citicas, Pro G's, Tatulas, and such... but they're more the reels I take out when I know conditions are going to be nasty or if I'm wading or something.

I'm not a super competitive fisherman (other than just with my buddies), so I'm more interested in fun than value or function. To me, I just enjoy fishing higher end reels more. I'm on the water for relaxation and fun. My top end stuff is just... fun. That's why I buy it. That being said... will I catch more fish because of them? I'd say hardly ever, if at all. I can cast a tad bit farther with my MGL than I can my Citica E's, but hey... I could put the boat a little closer in almost every case.

To your question of whether or not they're more durable, I'd say no, not really. I take really good care of my stuff, and buy almost all Shimano and Daiwa with some 1,.3 Fishing. and Lew's sprinkled in here and there. I wouldn't say my 3 year old Metaniums have worn any better or worse than my 10 year old Curados, but the Mets are tighter and smoother... and they always were. If you take care of Shimano and Daiwa reels, they just last.

Would I buy again? Yep. Good reels from reliable manufacturers hold their value if you take care of them. They're an investment like good Dewalt, Bosch, Milwaukee tools ect... I can turn around and sell my Chronarch D7's for what I paid for them ten years ago. The same can be said of almost all of those older Shimano and Daiwa reels.

Okay, so after all that... my recommendation.

1. Don't do it unless you're prepared to buy more down the road. You'll want to.

2. Go Shimano or Daiwa.

3. If you're looking for a great all purpose, I think there's a ton of value in something like a used '13 Met. You can find one for under $275 for sure, and they're pretty much the perfect reel in my opinion. I like the MGL a tiny bit better, but it's also going to cost you $50-$100 more. Other options would be an Aldabaran or Steez, just depending on what you're throwing with it.

Congrats on the bonus and have fun!

Big Bait Fishing reply :

if i were you , i'd spend that money on a custom rod instead !!! reels are great , but i'd think you'd benefit from a rod built with a great blank and components , built exactly how you want it ....

roadwarrior reply :

http://fish.shimano.com/content/sac-fish/en/home/products/fishing-reels/baitcast/aldebaran.html

new2BC4bass reply :

You are out of my stratosphere with those reels. Glad you can treat yourself to one. Think it is safe to say you won't regret it. I am partial to Daiwas, but in this case I think I would go with a Metanium. However like bassontherange said, you might wind up wishing you hadn't gotten into the high end. Once you spend more it becomes easy to spend that much again. It can become addictive.

Goose52 reply :

On 10/21/2016 at 12:31 PM, bassbassontherange said:

Dangerous territory you're about to tread.

"Worth it" is such a relative and objective question, it's going to be different for different people. For me, I spent years slowly upgrading before I reached a point when I could first afford to buy my first high end reel. After that, all bets were off... I just found ways to buy sweet gear. If you're an enthusiast like me, and enjoy the gear as much as the fishing, a top end reel is absolutely worth it. I love fishing my Mets, Aldebarans, supertuned Chronarchs, Steezes, and more exotic reels like Exsence DC's and Conquests. I still use Curados, Citicas, Pro G's, Tatulas, and such... but they're more the reels I take out when I know conditions are going to be nasty or if I'm wading or something.

I'm not a super competitive fisherman (other than just with my buddies), so I'm more interested in fun than value or function. To me, I just enjoy fishing higher end reels more. I'm on the water for relaxation and fun. My top end stuff is just... fun. That's why I buy it. That being said... will I catch more fish because of them? I'd say hardly ever, if at all. I can cast a tad bit farther with my MGL than I can my Citica E's, but hey... I could put the boat a little closer in almost every case.

To your question of whether or not they're more durable, I'd say no, not really. I take really good care of my stuff, and buy almost all Shimano and Daiwa with some 1,.3 Fishing. and Lew's sprinkled in here and there. I wouldn't say my 3 year old Metaniums have worn any better or worse than my 10 year old Curados, but the Mets are tighter and smoother... and they always were. If you take care of Shimano and Daiwa reels, they just last.

Would I buy again? Yep. Good reels from reliable manufacturers hold their value if you take care of them. They're an investment like good Dewalt, Bosch, Milwaukee tools ect... I can turn around and sell my Chronarch D7's for what I paid for them ten years ago. The same can be said of almost all of those older Shimano and Daiwa reels.

Okay, so after all that... my recommendation.

1. Don't do it unless you're prepared to buy more down the road. You'll want to.

2. Go Shimano or Daiwa.

3. If you're looking for a great all purpose, I think there's a ton of value in something like a used '13 Met. You can find one for under $275 for sure, and they're pretty much the perfect reel in my opinion. I like the MGL a tiny bit better, but it's also going to cost you $50-$100 more. Other options would be an Aldebaran or Steez, just depending on what you're throwing with it.

Congrats on the bonus and have fun!

A great post ! Nicely summarized and it speaks for many of us...

Jaderose reply :

I really want one of these.

http://japantackle.com/daiwa-morethan-pesv-2014.html

DubyaDee reply :

I was in a similar position last year and I picked up a Shimano Calcutta Conquest 101.

The Conquest is extremely smooth. I love it for slow rolling a spinnerbait or swimbait. It's tough to put it down once you pick it up. I'll have the conquest for the rest of my life.

Hulkster reply :

i'd get a Calcutta conquest too. that thing is a work of art

buzzed bait reply :

just be really "ridiculous" and go all in..... on a calcutta conquest dc or antares dc!!

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 1:37 AM, DubyaDee said:

I was in a similar position last year and I picked up a Shimano Calcutta Conquest 101.

The Conquest is extremely smooth. I love it for slow rolling a spinnerbait or swimbait. It's tough to put it down once you pick it up. I'll have the conquest for the rest of my life.

I like the idea!

I am using the Lew's Inshore 2 for my big baits right now and I am feeling that it is a bit underpowered and has just enough line capacity for 25pound Fluro.

Since I am planning to use the reel for inshore saltwater fishing as well, that might be a candidate and the Inshore 2 I would use on my cranking stick.

I would be looking at the 400-modell. 580 USD on TW... Wow!
Interesting!

Dypsis reply :

On 10/21/2016 at 12:31 PM, bassbassontherange said:

Dangerous territory you're about to tread.

Agreed 1000% It starts with one NRX, or one MB rod, or one Metanium.......

I'm on the water for relaxation and fun. My top end stuff is just... fun. That's why I buy it. That being said... will I catch more fish because of them? I'd say hardly ever, if at all. I can cast a tad bit farther with my MGL than I can my Citica E's, but hey... I could put the boat a little closer in almost every case.

Again, couldn't have said it better myself.

1. Don't do it unless you're prepared to buy more down the road. You'll want to.

2. Go Shimano or Daiwa.

Yet again, sound advice. IMO although I haven't tried Lews or a few others.

Great post.

fishballer06 reply :

Treat yourself to a Metanium. But be warned, once you use one, you'll be wanting to replace all your reels with one.

shawnmc reply :

Daiwa fan here. I'd go with a Steez.

5fishlimit reply :

If you are really looking to "treat yo self" then I would check out the Megabass reels.

fishwizzard reply :

Having just dipped my toe into finesse casting, I would go for a used higher-end finesse reel, then send it out for a supertune. If you are looking for "ridiculous" then just think of the looks you will get throwing 1/16oz spinner at trout or perch with a casting rig.

Of course, you will then need an UL rod, but 2-piece JDM ones are pretty reasonable on ebay.

DogBone_384 reply :

I bought a Diawa PXY68 a couple years ago and love it. It's on a certain 6'10" ML casting rod and tosses 1/8 oz Rapalas and spinners quite nicely.

fishwizzard reply :

That's the reel I have, but on a Recon 2 L. It is absurd how much fun that combo is.

freelancer27 reply :

I think I will need to use the demo program from TW to get clarity on this overall question: "How much better is a 400 USD reel than a 250 USD one?"

hawgenvy reply :

How about one of those Shimano DC ("digital control") models? I think they're available only in Japan. They control spool speed with a computer chip, preventing backlashes. And they supposedly allow much faster spool RPM for greater casting distance than reels without DC. They are very expensive. I don't have one, so I have no personal experience. But the DC reels sound intriguing. If you want to treat yourself to the world's best baitcaster, you'll want to investigate the Shimano DC models.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 7:00 AM, hawgenvy said:

How about one of those Shimano DC ("digital control") models? I think they're available only in Japan. They control spool speed with a computer chip, preventing backlashes. And they supposedly allow much faster spool RPM for greater casting distance than reels without DC. They are very expensive. I don't have one, so I have no personal experience. But the DC reels sound intriguing. If you want to treat yourself to the world's best baitcaster, you'll want to investigate the Shimano DC models.

I think you are referring to the Shimano Antares?!

rippin-lips reply :

It's only money so buy yourself a high end reel and enjoy it. Just remember that there's Daiwa and Shimano... then everything else.

MBB Nate reply :

I think I've decided my next rod/reel is going to be a Daiwa Alphas SV paired with a Daiwa Tatula rod. Got to feel a tatula rod today and fell in love.

I am however very curious about the DC shimano reels.

Columbia Craw reply :

I too recently received a special recognition from my employer but it did not come with a bonus check. It was a " Certificate Of Merit." So i'm going to treat myself to a pack or Zoom Trick Worms. I don't care what they cost. As for you buddy, Steez has a nice sound.

Stingray23 reply :

I LOVE my Shimano Conquest 100HG. Beautiful, solid, smooth, should last forever, effortless retrieve, did I mention beautiful?

hawgenvy reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 7:04 AM, freelancer27 said:

I think you are referring to the Shimano Antares?!

Shimano Antares, Metonium, Scorpion, Excense, Calais, Calcutta , and maybe some others, have DC versions.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 8:01 AM, hawgenvy said:

Shimano Antares, Metonium, Scorpion, Excense, Calais, Calcutta , and maybe some others, have DC versions.

I thought just the Antares has the digital chip and that sweet sound!

Could you please point me to the Metonium with DC?

Thanks!

iabass8 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 8:15 AM, freelancer27 said:

Could you please point me to the Metonium with DC?

Thanks!

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Shimano+Metanium+DC

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 8:40 AM, iabass8 said:

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Shimano+Metanium+DC

Good one!

I was more trying to find out where to find such reel? I am a bit ignorant sometimes and just rely on TW as my source of truth.

new2BC4bass reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 8:40 AM, iabass8 said:

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Shimano+Metanium+DC

Too bad I am a computer illiterate. I wouldn't know how to even start something like that. Looks like you type faster than me too.....and more accurate.

Angry John reply :

There are some very cool reels out there that you may want to check out. The AOI reels are nice, an ITO, the spinning ITO's are supper nice and fun to look at. Want a round reel check out a monoblock. My personal goal is to own a millionaire IZE http://japantackle.com/reel-archives/casting-reel-archives/daiwa-millionaire-light.html

hawgenvy reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 8:40 AM, iabass8 said:

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Shimano+Metanium+DC

That was a good one! You're a smartass, but that was beautiful.

Gundog reply :

Diawa T3 Air 8.6r-tw Bait casting reel from Japan $660.

Or a Zebco 808 $15.

You decide!

Hogsticker reply :

I treated myself with a Steez SV TW, and oh what a treat it is! Nicest reel I've ever used. If all my other reels were lower end stuff, I'm not sure I'd ever use them again. So yeah, it's a slippery slope.

gulfcaptain reply :

I've already got the reels I want.... Quantum's EXO 100's, 200's, 300's, and then the TourMG100s. No need for any of those JDM reels, these two lines although one of them isn't in production anymore cover all my needs and wants in a baitcasting reel.

freelancer27 reply :

I love that sound of the DC reels for some reason... I wouldnt want to shell out 600 bucks for the Antares but the Metanium DC might be worth considering.

On the other hand the new Daiwa Steez seems to be a better all-rounder.

Thoughts?

Goose52 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 1:57 PM, freelancer27 said:

I love that sound of the DC reels for some reason... I wouldnt want to shell out 600 bucks for the Antares but the Metanium DC might be worth considering.

....

Thoughts?

Dogmatic reply :

Someday a Shrapnel as casting, for Spinning...I'm still thinking about it.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/22/2016 at 9:04 PM, Goose52 said:

Thanks for the link.

Seems like a decent reel, though just 'ok'. But I am looking for 'ridiculously' good!

So might need to look at the Steez, Antares or Calcutta.

Goose52 reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:05 AM, freelancer27 said:

Thanks for the link.

Seems like a decent reel, though just 'ok'. But I am looking for 'ridiculously' good!

So might need to look at the Steez, Antares or Calcutta.

Here you go - look away...

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:14 AM, Goose52 said:

Here you go - look away...

Holy shoot!

That that is almost a little car that you have lying around there!

so you replaced all your low profile baitcasters with round ones? May I ask why?

bigfruits reply :

5/8oz and under - Alderbaran HG

http://www.digitaka.com/item.php?item=182421

5/8oz and under bottom contact and light baits - Aldebaran XG BFS (shallow spool)

http://www.digitaka.com/item.php?item=182415

All around - Metanium HG MGL

http://www.digitaka.com/item.php?item=182397

freelancer27 reply :

I would like to use it for crankbaits, spinnerbaits and smaller swimbaits.

So power is important, far casting is very important and also it should be robust (I dont like reels that scratch easy and need to get pampered).

new2BC4bass reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:33 AM, freelancer27 said:

Holy shoot!

That that is almost a little car that you have lying around there!

so you replaced all your low profile baitcasters with round ones? May I ask why?

Stick around. You will discover that Goose did not give up on low profile reels and in fact has quite a few nice ones. Some people have a bit more loose change for hobbies than the rest of us. A guy on TT sold around 130 combos while thinning his herd. The cheapest were in the $250 range with most being much more expensive....both the rods and the reels.

clh121787 reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:14 AM, Goose52 said:

Here you go - look away...

O my...

Definitely a spendy shimano of the jdm d.c. variety.

Hogsticker reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:37 AM, freelancer27 said:

I would like to use it for crankbaits, spinnerbaits and smaller swimbaits.

So power is important, far casting is very important and also it should be robust (I dont like reels that scratch easy and need to get pampered).

This post has Daiwa SV103 written all over it. Not necessarily high end, but a d**n fine reel.

soflabasser reply :

Thinking of getting a Shimano Stella or Penn Torque spinning reel.

webertime reply :

I'd buy 3-4 used TDZ's and trick them out a bit (gears, handle, drag). That way you still get 95% of the new reel performance without the "ugh, I don't want to touch the BPS reel" feeling since one of the TDZ's will be replacing it.

j bab reply :

I'd get a Shimano Aldebaran or a Daiwa Steez SV TWS.

If you treat them right you'll easily get 10 years out of them.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/24/2016 at 3:45 AM, j bab said:

I'd get a Shimano Aldebaran or a Daiwa Steez SV TWS.

If you treat them right you'll easily get 10 years out of them.

Yes, this is where my head is heading towards now.

I want to replace my Bass Pro Shops reel. It is a good all purpose reel but I am just not getting the distance out of it, it is heavy and bulky.

I would put the BPS reel on my 2 piece rod and have it in my car for 'just in case there is a lake around' scenarios.

Though the questions is, which rod to combine it with... would be a bit of a 'waste' if I put the reel on my Bass Pro Shops Extreme Casting. I actually like the rod what it does for the money.

Hmm, maybe I need approach this from a different angle... here are my combos and how I use them:

Casting Combo 1:
* Rod: G. Loomis E6X Casting Rod 6'8" Med Hvy 803C JWR

* Reel: Lews Team Lew's Custom Pro Speed Spool (7.1:1)
* Line: 12 pound Fluro
*Applications: Worm/ light jigs and Jerkbaits

Casting Combo 2:
* Rod: St. Croix Avid X Series Cast Rod 7' Med Hvy
* Reel: Shimano Curado 200 I
* Line: 12 pound Fluro (thinking of putting 20 pound braid on it)
* Applications: Big bottom bouncing lures (Weighted creature baits, Jigs)

Casting Combo 3:
* Rod: Bass Pro Shops Extreme Casting, Medium heavy, fast tapper
* Reel: Bass Pro Shops Pro Qualifier 6.4:1
* Line: 14 pound Mono
* Applications: Spinner baits, (lip less) crankbaits, small swimbaits

Casting combo 4:
* Rod: Okuma Scott Martin TCS Casting Rod 7'11" Heavy

* Reel: Daiwa Coastal
* Line: 50 pound Praid
* Applications: Top water and heavy punching

Casting Combo 5:
* Rod: M1 Inshore SMX-79H7'9"
* Reel: Lew's Inshore 2
* Line: 25 # Fluro
* Applications: Heavy swimbaits

I also have a spinning combo but that is just a back up and I barely use it.

Since I have the attention of such a experienced group, I would like to get your feedback on my set up.

Clearly Combo 3 is where I am thinking of upgrading. Would a Daiwa Steez/ Shimano Metanium be a good reel for those applications?

Thanks a ton guys for all your thoughts, opinions and suggestions!!!

bassbassontherange reply :

I think you'd see the most benefit of a higher end reel (and a light setup in general) if you're using it for bottom contact or suspending baits. The idea in this case is that a lighter reel/rod combo will give you improved sensitivity to be able to feel bites. With moving baits (most of what you throw with the combo you're replacing), often the fish more or less hook themselves.

That's the logical perspective, if you're asking for it. I don't always fish logically. Most of the time I use what I'm in the mood for unless I'm tourney fishing. For the combo you're replacing, I really like what I'm using, an Aldebaran 50 on a Poison Adrena M F. I throw mostly spinnerbaits (anything but huge ones), bladed jigs, small squarebills and lipless cranks with it. I use it for more than I probably should because I enjoy throwing it so much, but it's just too fun to use.

If you're looking at replacing that setup specifically, I'd do something like that. You won't be disappointed in a Met or a Steez for the same purpose either, I just giggle a little bit inside each time I pick up the Alde/Adrena combo. It's probably one of the very lightest combos you can find, and you can find a crazy good deal on the Poison Adrena's if you look around a bit.

I'd say if you're looking at throwing anything but smaller swimbaits though, you'd be better served with something a little meatier. I think you're going to be happy with whatever you end up with. I'd say though keep your gear ratio in the 6's. Reels in that ratio are sometimes a little less sought after, so that can be of benefit to you if you're buying used. I've nabbed some really good deals on this forum and others when looking for slower geared reels.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/24/2016 at 7:57 AM, bassbassontherange said:

I think you'd see the most benefit of a higher end reel (and a light setup in general) if you're using it for bottom contact or suspending baits. The idea in this case is that a lighter reel/rod combo will give you improved sensitivity to be able to feel bites. With moving baits (most of what you throw with the combo you're replacing), often the fish more or less hook themselves.

That's the logical perspective, if you're asking for it. I don't always fish logically. Most of the time I use what I'm in the mood for unless I'm tourney fishing. For the combo you're replacing, I really like what I'm using, an Aldebaran 50 on a Poison Adrena M F. I throw mostly spinnerbaits (anything but huge ones), bladed jigs, small squarebills and lipless cranks with it. I use it for more than I probably should because I enjoy throwing it so much, but it's just too fun to use.

If you're looking at replacing that setup specifically, I'd do something like that. You won't be disappointed in a Met or a Steez for the same purpose either, I just giggle a little bit inside each time I pick up the Alde/Adrena combo. It's probably one of the very lightest combos you can find, and you can find a crazy good deal on the Poison Adrena's if you look around a bit.

I'd say if you're looking at throwing anything but smaller swimbaits though, you'd be better served with something a little meatier. I think you're going to be happy with whatever you end up with. I'd say though keep your gear ratio in the 6's. Reels in that ratio are sometimes a little less sought after, so that can be of benefit to you if you're buying used. I've nabbed some really good deals on this forum and others when looking for slower geared reels.

Thanks for your reply!

Since I am looking to throw Spinnerbaits, Cranbaits and swimbaits up to 3/4 of an ounce I am not sure if the Aldebaran is not too fragile (its soo light) and has enough line on it. In this case distance is important.

I a m a bit sceptical towards shimano rods, because of their 1 year warranty only...

buzzed bait reply :

On 10/24/2016 at 9:03 AM, freelancer27 said:

I a m a bit sceptical towards shimano rods, because of their 1 year warranty only...

don't be.... if you use it regularly and it doesn't break in the first year it's fine. anything that breaks after year 1 was likely user error. problem with that lifetime warranty is all the tools that abuse it.... what that means is that people like me who take good care of their gear pay the price for those that don't....

DaveT63 reply :

I've had a Steez and loved it, but traded it for a Shimano Core 51Mg7 and haven't regretted it one bit. That said, one reel I LOVE and highly recommend is the Daiwa Pixy. You can find almost like new used ones on the bay for as little as $150 shipped, and I prefer it over the Steez. If you upgrade it to the "Pixzilla", it will handle anything you want to fish for in fresh water. Depending on the size of your bonus, if you get one of these, you may have enough to buy an awesome custom built rod, and have a high end combo you will love for years to come. Take my word for it, the Pixy is a pleasure to fish.

Just my two cents,

Dave

freelancer27 reply :

Hi all,

Gary was so nice to give me his thoughts on the subject as well.

He is suggesting to go with either the Zillion SV TW or the SV103H and add the remaining money into a new rod (Megabass XX Spinner Bait Special, or perhaps even a Diablo Spec R).

I just did a quick search on youtube and I found a guy reviewing the Zillion SV TW, saying that the distance out of the reel was just not that great.

What do you guys think?

Thanks.

Best,
Seb.

5fishlimit reply :

On 10/25/2016 at 1:30 AM, freelancer27 said:

I just did a quick search on youtube and I found a guy reviewing the Zillion SV TW, saying that the distance out of the reel was just not that great.

I would much rather take Gary's advice and suggestions than a guy on youtube. Gary has a business and reputation to uphold. The youtuber is just looking for clicks and views.

bassbassontherange reply :

On 10/25/2016 at 1:30 AM, freelancer27 said:

He is suggesting to go with either the Zillion SV TW or the SV103H and add the remaining money into a new rod (Megabass XX Spinner Bait Special, or perhaps even a Diablo Spec R).

I just did a quick search on youtube and I found a guy reviewing the Zillion SV TW, saying that the distance out of the reel was just not that great.

When you get above about $200 retail, almost any reel you buy is going to cast extremely well. The rod will impact distance more than the reel above that price point. The MB SSS is a really good option for the applications you detailed. I'm a big fan of that recommendation for what you need.

I have less experience with the new Zillions than the older ones, but they're no slouches. What are you looking for, exactly? If it's the best caster, smoothest retrieve, most features ect... I'd have a couple of different answers. Based on your earlier post, I'd still go Metanium or Aldebaran. My opinion only here, but when it comes to a general purpose reel (which seems to be what you're looking for), I think Shimano has the best options. If you're looking for finesse it's another story. Daiwa gives you more choices and usually more customization possibilities.

freelancer27 reply :

I am demoing the Metanium and the older Daiwa Steez at the end of the week. I used TW demo program.

The Daiwa should be representative of the Zillion SV TW. I am hearing a lot of good things about the Metanium, so I would like to give it a try and see.

I still might get the Rod that Gary was suggesting though! This seems to be a unfortunate pattern. I go out set a budget (which is already high) and still come home with having exceeded that budget. Why does that always happen when I buy fishing gear...

Mike Murphy reply :

I really like the Shimano Curado, as old as it is I am buying another this week. One day when I backlas... *cough* try..yes, try another rod and reel I may find one I like better. I still have years of fishing ahead of me to allow new fishing weapons, but some oldies are still goodies.

How dangerous to ask what to get next, that's like a synonym for what is best... lol Be sure to let us know and post on what you have decided, as I just notice this post is 3 pages and 59 strong... Sorry if it's been answered.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/25/2016 at 7:05 AM, Mike Murphy said:

How dangerous to ask what to get next, that's like a synonym for what is best... lol Be sure to let us know and post on what you have decided, as I just notice this post is 3 pages and 59 strong... Sorry if it's been answered.

Not yet!

That is part of (my) enjoyment of fishing. Researching and discussing gear!

Brewter Beans reply :

Shimano Antares

abu Garcia 1000$ combo

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/25/2016 at 8:34 PM, Brewter Beans said:

Shimano Antares

abu Garcia 1000$ combo

For this the bonus (and my ego) are not big enough.

blckshirt98 reply :

I noticed the OP is in Marin and listed a Lew's Inshore and Daiwa Coastal in his initial post. Are you planning on using this reel in the saltwater, like in SF Bay? Be careful about buying a magnesium reel that's not engineered for saltwater because one use in the salt will destroy that reel. The Steez in particular some models are not coated and saltwater will f*** that thing up! A Calcutta or Curado E might be a good choice, both are tanks that will hold up well in freshwater/saltwater.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 1:56 AM, blckshirt98 said:

I noticed the OP is in Marin and listed a Lew's Inshore and Daiwa Coastal in his initial post. Are you planning on using this reel in the saltwater, like in SF Bay? Be careful about buying a magnesium reel that's not engineered for saltwater because one use in the salt will destroy that reel. The Steez in particular some models are not coated and saltwater will f*** that thing up! A Calcutta or Curado E might be a good choice, both are tanks that will hold up well in freshwater/saltwater.

Great attention detail!

I have a couple of combos (two I mentioned) that I would be using for my salt water fishing. The reel that I am planning to buy is purely for freshwater fishing. I will use it for fishing in the California Delta, so some brackish water might be the case.

Brewter Beans reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 1:09 AM, freelancer27 said:

For this the bonus (and my ego) are not big enough.

Go for it man go big or go home

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 4:19 AM, Brewter Beans said:

Go for it man go big or go home

That is for a next bonus!
(Though a Hobie Pro Angler is next...)

Hogsticker reply :

On 10/24/2016 at 9:03 AM, freelancer27 said:

Thanks for your reply!

Since I am looking to throw Spinnerbaits, Cranbaits and swimbaits up to 3/4 of an ounce I am not sure if the Aldebaran is not too fragile (its soo light) and has enough line on it. In this case distance is important.

I a m a bit sceptical towards shimano rods, because of their 1 year warranty only...

SV 103 all the way for this. The Steez SV TW is more of a power finesse reel. Gary will tell you the same thing.

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 7:50 AM, Hogsticker said:

SV 103 all the way for this. The Steez SV TW is more of a power finesse reel. Gary will tell you the same thing.

He recommended the Daiwa Zillion SV TW. I generally like the idea.

I just received the demo reels from TW.

The Daiwa Steez SV and the Shimano Metanium Casting (old model).

Out of the box I have to honestly say that I am not that impressed by the build quality. Both reels warble a bit at the handle. The cheaper Metanium makes actually a better impression. When I compare the Metanium with my Curado, there is no 200 USD difference to my eye in terms of build quality.

Well, when I cast them I make my ultimate judgment, but what I am seeing so far, lets me honestly doubt if I should be spending 400plus USD on a reel, when a 250USD offers the same build quality.

Hogsticker reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 9:34 AM, freelancer27 said:

He recommended the Daiwa Zillion SV TW. I generally like the idea.

I just received the demo reels from TW.

The Daiwa Steez SV and the Shimano Metanium Casting (old model).

Out of the box I have to honestly say that I am not that impressed by the build quality. Both reels warble a bit at the handle. The cheaper Metanium makes actually a better impression. When I compare the Metanium with my Curado, there is no 200 USD difference to my eye in terms of build quality.

Well, when I cast them I make my ultimate judgment, but what I am seeing so far, lets me honestly doubt if I should be spending 400plus USD on a reel, when a 250USD offers the same build quality.

You're handling reels that have been through who knows how many hands of people that have done who knows what to them. My 16 Steez is tight and connected. Feels amazing

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/26/2016 at 10:56 AM, Hogsticker said:

You're handling reels that have been through who knows how many hands of people that have done who knows what to them. My 16 Steez is tight and connected. Feels amazing

Fair enough!

freelancer27 reply :

Hi all,

so, after work today I had a chance to pick my Bass Pro Extreme Rod and 4 reels to test them against each other.

The reels were:
* Lew's Team Pro
* Daiwa Steez (old model)
* Shimano Metanium
* Bass Pro Qualifier

I used 4 different lures (from very light to heavy) to see what differences it would make.
Overall I have to admit though that I was a bit disappointed with the performance of the Steez and the Metanium. Yes, they were lighter and also much smoother but even my beat up Bass Pro Qualifier was not far off.

I tweaked quite a bit to get the best result. Here is what I (roughly) measured (in meters):

I think this makes it easier for me to pass on a 400 USD reel...

Thoughts on that?

Big Bait Fishing reply :

On 10/28/2016 at 10:21 AM, freelancer27 said:

Hi all,

so, after work today I had a chance to pick my Bass Pro Extreme Rod and 4 reels to test them against each other.

The reels were:
* Lew's Team Pro
* Daiwa Steez (old model)
* Shimano Metanium
* Bass Pro Qualifier

I used 4 different lures (from very light to heavy) to see what differences it would make.
Overall I have to admit though that I was a bit disappointed with the performance of the Steez and the Metanium. Yes, they were lighter and also much smoother but even my beat up Bass Pro Qualifier was not far off.

I tweaked quite a bit to get the best result. Here is what I (roughly) measured (in meters):

I think this makes it easier for me to pass on a 400 USD reel...

Thoughts on that?

still think you should get a sweet custom rod built ....

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/28/2016 at 10:59 AM, Big Bait Fishing said:

still think you should get a sweet custom rod built ....

Custom build rods are a completely new territory for me.

I am planning to get a new combo with a much more affordable reel and for the rod something like this: Orochi XX Casting Rod 6'10" MH Jig And Spinnerbaiting

What benefits would a custom build rod give me? (I like the warranty on the Megabass, not sure if a custom builder offers such warranty). Also I think for a pure reaction bit rod (Spinnerbaits, Cranks and little swimbaits) the sensitivity of the rod is not really important.

Distance, Power and weight, material quality is though!

Big Bait Fishing reply :

On 10/28/2016 at 11:51 AM, freelancer27 said:

Custom build rods are a completely new territory for me.

once you have some custom rods built to your exact likings , you'll be hooked !! most guys/gals who go custom will never go back to production rods .... i know i never will .

warrantees for the blank would be covered by the manufacturer , rod build by the builder (what ever he/she is offering )

a consultation with a good rod builder is something you might consider , to find out what your missing ....

freelancer27 reply :

On 10/28/2016 at 12:40 PM, Big Bait Fishing said:

once you have some custom rods built to your exact likings , you'll be hooked !! most guys/gals who go custom will never go back to production rods .... i know i never will .

warrantees for the blank would be covered by the manufacturer , rod build by the builder (what ever he/she is offering )

a consultation with a good rod builder is something you might consider , to find out what your missing ....

Any recommendations?

Big Bait Fishing reply :

On 10/29/2016 at 12:19 AM, freelancer27 said:

Any recommendations?

give a call to Mike at DVT . or look up rodbuilders in your area , be sure they are bass savvy and desribe the rod you would like to replicate .

check the rods you use and note things you would change and would like different to suit you as in handle length , handle material , reel seat , trim pieces , guides , hook keeper , etc.. covey those things to a builder and go over every detail !!

i'm pretty sure everyone has used a rod that they like a lot but wish some things were different , custom rod builds are so eyeopening !! reels are fun to customize but there are only so much you can do to really alter the functioning of that reel as with rod builds you can go very in depth to get a rod functioning just how YOU want ..

start a thread in the custom rod forum as to what blank would be the right foundation of the perfect rod you want and what you'll use it for .

Angry John reply :

if you decide to build a custom rod do a lot of reading at anglers resource * about the diffrent guide systems and guide trains. spinning rods benifit the most from a custom build IMO.

freelancer27 reply :

I think I have come to a decision!

I will follow Gary's advice (from tackletrap) and get the following combo:

* Reel: Daiwa Zillion SV TW
* Rod: Megabass F5-72XX Diablo Spec-R
* Line: 30 pound test Sufix 832 Braid Lo-Vis Green (I will attach a Fluro leader if needed)

I think I am getting most what I want from this combo. Robust set up, Distance, good warranty and versatility for the set of applications that I am looking for: (Spinnerbaits, lip less crankbaits, small swimbaits - 3/8 - 1oz).

What ya thinking?

Yudo1 reply :

Nice combo. You should be very happy with it.

Hogsticker reply :

On 11/1/2016 at 4:18 AM, Yudo1 said:

Nice combo. You should be very happy with it.

Agreed

QUAKEnSHAKE reply :

On 11/1/2016 at 3:14 AM, freelancer27 said:

I think I have come to a decision!

I will follow Gary's advice (from tackletrap) and get the following combo:

* Reel: Daiwa Zillion SV TW
* Rod: Megabass F5-72XX Diablo Spec-R
* Line: 30 pound test Sufix 832 Braid Lo-Vis Green (I will attach a Fluro leader if needed)

I think I am getting most what I want from this combo. Robust set up, Distance, good warranty and versatility for the set of applications that I am looking for: (Spinnerbaits, lip less crankbaits, small swimbaits - 3/8 - 1oz).

What ya thinking?

All good except for the braid choice IMO. Super8Slick, Gamma Torque, Smackdown are a few braids I think are better than 832

freelancer27 reply :

On 11/1/2016 at 5:04 AM, QUAKEnSHAKE said:

All good except for the braid choice IMO. Super8Slick, Gamma Torque, Smackdown are a few braids I think are better than 832

I have used Berkley Trilene Professional Grade Braid and I liked it but wanted to try something new.
I am reading really good reviews on 832 on TW.

QUAKEnSHAKE reply :

On 10/23/2016 at 11:37 AM, freelancer27 said:

I would like to use it for crankbaits, spinnerbaits and smaller swimbaits.

So power is important, far casting is very important and also it should be robust (I dont like reels that scratch easy and need to get pampered).

On 11/1/2016 at 5:25 AM, freelancer27 said:

I have used Berkley Trilene Professional Grade Braid and I liked it but wanted to try something new.
I am reading really good reviews on 832 on TW.

I have/used 40&30# Trilene Pro braid and would say its about equal to 832 but color lasts longer on Trilene Pro. For moving baits that you mentioned earlier is why I think 832 isnt the best choice. 832 will be a little noisier and not as smooth as the 3 I posted prior.

BrianSnat reply :

The problem is this. Once you get a high end reel, the rest of yours will feel like crap. You will never want to use them again and might find yourself wanting to upgrade all of your reels and that will be an expensive propisition.

freelancer27 reply :

On 11/1/2016 at 11:08 AM, briansnat said:

The problem is this. Once you get a high end reel, the rest of yours will feel like crap. You will never want to use them again and might find yourself wanting to upgrade all of your reels and that will be an expensive propisition.

Well, if this is the case then I will gladly start saving. Though I think I have a good understanding now of what 'high end' provides. If money was not an obstacle, I would have eight 1000-USD combos a 70k bass boat with which I would fish on my private 100 acres lake, where only 10+ bass live in...

THanks for your concern bud!

Big Bait Fishing reply :

On 11/1/2016 at 5:04 AM, QUAKEnSHAKE said:

All good except for the braid choice IMO. Super8Slick, Gamma Torque, Smackdown are a few braids I think are better than 832

i also think there are better choices than 832 . i've been using 20 lb 832 and finally got tired of small backlashes from the line sticking to itself , i'm getting tired of the coatings they put on braid !! been using Sunline SX1 and am very impressed !! before that i was using Gamma Torque , but that stuff gets too soft and turns wispy . i think Gamma Torque is a great alternative to Samuri , only stronger .

Hogsticker reply :

Try Maxima braid. It's a sleeper. Kinda in between what you guys are talking about. Not so soft it wraps and sticks , but not rough like original power pro or Sufix original. Doesn't break in lower tests as easily either.

5fishlimit reply :

Another braid that has really impressed me is the Daiwa J-Braid. I had been using Maxima and Smackdown for the past 2 season, and picked up a spool of J-Braid because they had a 30# in chartreuse at my local Dick's Sporting Goods. It was only $15 for a 150yd spool, and after fishing it all season I am seriously considering using it one my other reels when it's time to change them out.

On 11/1/2016 at 3:14 AM, freelancer27 said:

* Reel: Daiwa Zillion SV TW
* Rod: Megabass F5-72XX Diablo Spec-R

BTW, nice choices for your combo. I think you will have many years of enjoyable fishing with this setup!

2081

With which reel would you treat yourself? 2024

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