Well, if you read my other post you would know that I picked up a Citica 201E last night at what I thought was a decent buy, but not sure. I have read a lot about these reels, and have found that the Citica and Curado have a cult like following, and not sure why? I pulled the spool bearings on it last night, and soaked them in Mineral Spirits to clean the grease out. I have found Mineral Spirits to work extremely well for this type of procedure. I then let the bearings dry on a paper towel over night.
I woke up due to the excitement of my new reel, and could not wait to get to finishing the job at hand. I spun the bearings on the tip of a pencil, and they spun fast and free. I put a drop of Reel Butter bearing lube on each bearing and let it soak in. I then wiped the excess oil off and installed the bearings back in the reel. I spun the spool and it was much smoother and faster than before. I spooled it up with 30# Power Pro and tied on a mouse and headed for the pond, a two minute walk from my front door.
I arrive at the pond, and my expectations are not very high, as I have always been a Abu fan. I set 3 brakes to the on position, and adjust the spool tension. I now proceed to unleash my first cast with my new Citica 201E....... I bring the rod back, and let it load, and swoosh..... this reel is a rocket launcher!!!!!! It is by far the smoothest and best casting reel I have ever held in my hands. I could not be any more happy, and feel this is by far the best $49.00 I've ever spent on any fishing gear. I now understand what all the hype is with these reels. I bought a Pro Qualifier about a month ago, and it does not even come close to the Citica.
Now having said this, I can't imagine how a Curado, could be any better, but I now want to find out.