What is the best way to maximize fishing fun? I would suggest the answer is using top performing fishing reels. What could be more annoying than having your equipment spoil your fun. We are going to look at three excellent reels that cover a wide range of angling options. All of these reels are suitable for use in either fresh or saltwater. Japan has a great reputation for making fishing reels so it probably will no surprise you that the manufacturers are Shimano and Daiwa.
Recommended fishing pleasure # 1 is the Shimano Sustain FE 5000. The Sustain spinner weighs in at a lightweight 13.9 ounces. A whole series of Sustain reels tare available. If you like the features of the reel but prefer a heavier or lighter version you can choose a different model.
The stand-out thing about the Sustain reel, once you get past its quality look and strong construction, is the smoothness of its operation. This is like the Holy Grail of all features when it comes to fishing. A fisherman’s greatest expectation from a reel is that it's a pleasure to cast and gives control good steady control with a fish on. The reason this reel is so easy to cast is due to two things; the special shape of the lip of the spool and a hard, slippery titanium finish on the spool surface. This translates to 5 - 10% extra casting distance and works well even with lighter baits. The next best thing about this fishing reel is the drags. Once you are hooked up to a fighting fish the drag operates very smoothly and with no lack of power. Some lesser reels jerk or snatch under pressure but not this one. When you are hooked up to a fighting fish that is making powerful runs, the reel absorbs the heavy shocks really smoothly taking its toll on the fish instead of on you.
Line twist has been well sorted by the bail arm system and the reel is well sealed against moisture. Shimano have given maximum strength to the handle by machining it out of one piece of aluminum and attaching it directly to the gears. This reel is not cheap at around $270 but the quality and fishing satisfaction it offers make it well worth the price.
Not everyone likes a spinning type reel. Or you may choose to own both. Well the Shimano Calcutta TE 400 is a top conventional style reel. Here is a beautiful lightweight reel that packs in the benefits. These include a good line capacity thanks to levelwind and a drag that allows fine adjustment. It weighs in at a light 12.8 oz and costs around $450.
This is a very attractive reel with a low durable maintenance finish. While looks are nice, function is even more valuable. As with the Sustain, it offers exceptional casting. Think smooth as butter and you get the picture. You will not find anything to fault the drag either. I don't know if it is the Dartanium material that makes the difference but the operation of the drag is so smooth without giving up the line easily. Despite its light weight there is no lack of power with 16 lbs of drag. This all translates to a whole lot of fun in your hands when you are fishing. The most satisfying benefit you get from this reel is being able to play and boat a 40 - 50 lb fighting fish.
As reflected by the price this is a top end offering. It is designed and built to not only offer the highest performance but also for long term durability..
If your target fish is in the big game class then you will be more interested in the next top reel on our review list. If you are in the market for a big game fishing reel then the Daiwa Saltiga 6500 is enough to make your mouth water. It weighs in at a tad under 30 oz and sports 66 lb of drag. This beastie is the big boy of spinning reels. Anyone into hunting big fish will be interested in this product. It will haul a big bass out of heavy cover or be equally at home hooked up to one of the bruisers of the sea. At the heart of the reel is marine bronze gear wheel that has been precision cut to very high tolerances. The unique design feature called Digigear has the advantage very precise engagement of the gear cluster. The reel body has been cleverly designed to seal out water. This has been accomplished by making the aluminum housing very rigid to eliminate flexing. Additional longevity benefits are provided by super corrosion resistant ball bearings, extra strong handle made form a single piece of aluminum and a high performance drag protected from that is sealed to keep out saltwater.
The setup of the handle and gears gives powerful leverage to haul heavy prey and the drag is full up to the strongest test - some say 'the smoothest in the business'. Most reels can't be washed down without the risk of water penetrating the housing. No problem with the Saltiga which has been designed so you can wash it off and remove any trace of saltwater. With the addition of a duct underneath the reel, water can pass through without causing any harm. This will provide less maintenance and longer service. Even though the Saltiga reel has performance to die for, it makes it easier to part with your money when you know a lot of trouble has been taken to make sure it is going to last the distance.
That's it in a nutshell. For the most angling fun possible one of these three reels should do the job superbly.
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