Finesse Casting Reel

[coak]

I'm really wanting to find a good finesse casting reel, as I usually fish creeks and rivers, averaging throwing 1/8 oz. roadrunners, spinnerbaits, cranks, etc.  I just cant seem to find the BPS ProLite anymore on the website.  Perhaps I should try the Bay? I will also say that I'm wanting to hear suggestions, but I Do Not have the coin for something like a Pixy. Thanks in advance.

 

Coak

[Goose52]

You can try eBay for the BPS Prolite - they show up from time-to-time. Most common is the PRL05HB model. The final model (PRL05HC) with the dual-braking system, shows up less frequently since it was only in production for a year or so. A "C" model just sold a few days ago for $51, a "B" model sold for $49.  As you can see, I check eBay for these frequently myself - but they are getting popular and prices are going up. No $40 mint "C" models anymore!

 

Otherwise, pickings are slim for an equivalent at the low price point. A used Curado 50 is an option, but those are holding value pretty well. 

[Toeshots]

I had been researching the same thing and the standard seemed to be the Daiwa Sol with the runner-up being the Shimano Curado/Chronarch 50E. The Sol is not the easiest reel to find, but they are out there. I lucked out and found one for $150 locally. There was one on eBay earlier today with a $200 BIN that appears to be gone now.

Not sure what the Pixy goes for so I don't know what your budget is but I at least wanted to share my findings.

Good luck.

[drew4779]

I fish small creeks too using light lines and lures. I use shimano 200e's with Boca orange seals with no problems. Try to find something with a light spool and upgrading spool bearings can make finesse applications much easier.

[skeletor6]

Not only does a lighter spool help, but also a spool with lower line capacity. As mentioned prior, the Daiwa Sol is the best option if you can find one. It outcasts my Curado 50e's in the lightweight department. Daiwa is really the innovator for finesse casting equipment. Another option that I have not explored, but seems to be reviewed fairly well is the Daiwa Lexa 100's. Someone who owns one might chime in for how it performs in the lightweight department.

[38 Super Fan]

Wow, I can't imagine trying to throw an 1/8 oz lure on a casting reel.

[rockchalk06]

The MGX from Abu is designed for it. It will cast some of the lightest lures. Its pricey, but works well.

[Bluebasser86]

I can fish 1/8oz baits on my supertuned Curado 50E but I can't see any situation where I, personally,would want to fish a 1/8oz bait on a casting setup instead of spinning. 

[papajoe222]

Another vote for the Sol, but they are getting harder to find. Beware if you're looking to pick up a used one of fleabay. The one I purchased recently needed extensive work to get it into decent shape.  As stated in a previous post, the Prolite reels from BPS are decent if you give one a good cleaning and light lube.  Another alternative from BPS is their Wally Marshall baitcaster. 

What is going to make or break you when attempting to cast light baits with any baitcaster is the rod.  You'll need one that will load up using those light baits and still not be wimpy when it comes to fighting the fish.

[new2BC4bass]

The MGX from Abu is designed for it. It will cast some of the lightest lures. Its pricey, but works well.

 

Except it is more expensive (new) than a used Pixy which the OP can't afford.  Unless he is talking about the PX68 which is almost twice the price of an MGX.  Used Pixy can sometimes be found for around $250 unless you can find one in really bad cosmetic shape.  I seem to recall the Pixilla's going for around $350-$400...maybe more.  Like the OP I can't afford that for a reel.  I have a new-to-me tuned Sol with ABEC9s that I am hoping will make me a decent finesse reel.  I've got a couple spinning outfits that can handle those weights with ease, but I prefer casting reels if I can make one handle the chore.  I recently picked up an Alphas 103L that I will also try lighter weights with to see how it (and I, LOL) perform.  It may also cost more than the OP wants to pay.

 

It seems (with a few exceptions) that Daiwa has the finesse market cornered.

[bassh8er]

You can try eBay for the BPS Prolite - they show up from time-to-time. Most common is the PRL05HB model. The final model (PRL05HC) with the dual-braking system, shows up less frequently since it was only in production for a year or so. A "C" model just sold a few days ago for $51, a "B" model sold for $49. As you can see, I check eBay for these frequently myself - but they are getting popular and prices are going up. No $40 mint "C" models anymore!

Otherwise, pickings are slim for an equivalent at the low price point. A used Curado 50 is an option, but those are holding value pretty well.

Goose,

That was this guy that bought that reel for $51, but I was willing to go considerably higher.

I, too, search for these on eBay everyday.

[Goose52]

Goose,

That was this guy that bought that reel for $51, but I was willing to go considerably higher.

I, too, search for these on eBay everyday.

 

I remember seeing your WTB in the Flea Market about Prolites. I was going to PM you about the eBay "C" model...except I had a (low) bid on it myself...

 

Good for you to get it at a good price - glad I didn't bump your bid!  I have 3 "C"s so I shouldn't be greedy...

[WRB]

Daiwa TD Fuego casting reel can be tuned to cast light weight lures, compact light weight good quality reel. TD Fuego is the same size and weight as the TD Sol, $130 new for the 2012 model.

Tom

[Jrob78]

Daiwa TD Fuego casting reel can be tuned to cast light weight lures, compact light weight good quality reel. TD Fuego is the same size and weight as the TD Sol, $130 new for the 2012 model.

Tom

 

I think you're thinking of something else.  The Fuego isn't the same as the Sol, at all.  It was also discontinued in about 2009 and might be harder to come by than the Sol.  It isn't a finesse reel.

[skeletor6]

Just wanted to add, you can go out and get a nice finesse casting reel, but if you don't have the right rod it won't matter. You need something that has a soft enough tip to load an 1/8oz bait well. 

[WRB]

I think you're thinking of something else.  The Fuego isn't the same as the Sol, at all.  It was also discontinued in about 2009 and might be harder to come by than the Sol.  It isn't a finesse reel.

You are right about it's no longer made, not 2012 model, but 2012 price new on EBay. However it is the same size and weight as the Sol and with ABEC05 bearing, and tuned will cast light weight 1/8 oz lures just as well.

The Fuego is a good finesse casting for the budget and will accept most of te upgrades as the Sol for about 1/3 rd the cost.

Tom

[Jrob78]

You are right about it's no longer made, not 2012 model, but 2012 price new on EBay. However it is the same size and weight as the Sol and with ABEC05 bearing, and tuned will cast light weight 1/8 oz lures just as well.

The Fuego is a good finesse casting for the budget and will accept most of te upgrades as the Sol for about 1/3 rd the cost.

Tom

It is similarly sized as the Sol but it's built on a different frame and is actually a magnesium reel.  The Fuego is an awesome reel and I wish I had more than the 1 I have.  The Sol shares a frame with the JDM Alphas.  Part of what makes the Sol a great finesse reel is the spool.  The Fuego has a normal deep spool.  I'm sure if you tuned it up it would handle lighter baits but it wasn't designed to be a finesse reel. 

 

If I were looking for a finesse reel on limited budget, I would be looking for a used Sol, a Curado/Chronarch 50E or a used Chronarch 50mg.

[kickerfish1]

I am not sure how much money you are willing to invest in a finesse casting reel. Typically lightweight baits are reserved for spinning reels. To throw lightweight baits any distance at all with a baitcaster is more of enthusiast thing. Frankily it can be done but it isn't a cheap way to go about it. Best advice would be finding a curado 50e or a Sol / Alphas reel used. Depending upon condition you can find one from $120-$200.

Next step would be having the reel tuned. Due to cost, finesse spool upgrades are likely out of the question. Therefore I would look at upgrading the spool bearings and having the reel supertuned by a professional. To do both of these it will likely cost you around $60. This would put the reel cost at about $180-$260.

The next part of the equation would be choosing a finesse casting rod. I think a medium light or a 1 or 2 powered rod would best to load those 1/8 oz baits. Also don't forget not to go any higher than 10# line , if it were me I would opt for #8 floro.

For rod, reel, and line and reel upgrades it will likely cost you $300+ depending upon the rod and line you choose.

[jhoffman]

Not only does a lighter spool help, but also a spool with lower line capacity. As mentioned prior, the Daiwa Sol is the best option if you can find one. It outcasts my Curado 50e's in the lightweight department. Daiwa is really the innovator for finesse casting equipment. Another option that I have not explored, but seems to be reviewed fairly well is the Daiwa Lexa 100's. Someone who owns one might chime in for how it performs in the lightweight department.

 

I just bought a lexa 100 and I dont think its going to handle light baits well, nothing like a pixy would

[Goose52]

I am not sure how much money you are willing to invest in a finesse casting reel. Typically lightweight baits are reserved for spinning reels. To throw lightweight baits any distance at all with a baitcaster is more of enthusiast thing. Frankily it can be done but it isn't a cheap way to go about it. .......

 

For rod, reel, and line and reel upgrades it will likely cost you $300+ depending upon the rod and line you choose.

 

The fact of the matter is that most of the reels that are ideal for this application are out of production or are too expensive. The manufacturers probably think (and perhaps rightfully so) that this is a niche market not worth servicing at any lower price point.  Spinning gear is certainly more practical for this application - but the OP indicated that he wants to use BC gear, and is on a budget.

 

So, there is a (relatively) cheap way to do it. Buy a used BPS Prolite reel (~$50-60), put it on a ML BPS cranking stick ($60 on sale), add some 6 or 8 pound line, and for ~$130-140, go fishing.  The downside is that Prolites are gaining popularity and getting hard to find. Another downside is that the "C" model Prolite shown in the photo was only in production a short time, and parts availability may be a long-term issue.

 

 

 

With the combo shown above, you get much of the capability of the combo shown below...for about $550 less dollars... :lol:

 

[kickerfish1]

Love the pixy / recon combo goose!

On a side note I have that pro-lite reel pictured but haven't tried it for finesse baits yet. Since the OP mentioned reaction baits only I think you are right that a BPS brand cranking rod will suffice fine. At any rate the BPS cranking rod and pro-lite reel would probably work. I just question if this reel in its stock form can truly cast an actual 1/8 oz bait. If it can do it well enough I would tell the OP to give it a shot.

When I get my pro-lite back from service and the lakes loose their ice I will throw it on a ML rod and give it a test.

[BradH]

I'll second the use of the ML BPS Crankin' Stick.  I have an older one with a 50e that I use for casting shad raps, flicker shads, small squarebills and small rattle baits.

[Darren.]

I just bought a lexa 100 and I dont think its going to handle light baits well, nothing like a pixy would

 

Was about to write about mine. Absolutely no issue casting 1/8 oz bullet weight with a 4.75" Zoom Finesse worm.

 

I was out once this year and cast a weightless 4" Yammie Senko - no problems.

 

The Lexa can handle light weights. It's small enough, strong enough, and dadgummit, I like it.

[jhoffman]

I havent put mine through its paces, its winter here. I bought mine as a crankn reel.

[coak]

I appreciate all of the information given.  I do have a ML Convergence but like I said it just needs a reel.  I'm going to keep a lookout for one of the ProLites that Goose has talked of, and will also probably give either the Lexa 100 or a Curado 50e a good hard look as well. 

 

Thanks,

Coak