U S Baitcasters

[aceman387]

Has anybody tried one or bought one ? What did you like or dislike about it?

[Fishes in trees]

I got one from Cabelas this winter for $40.  A Hibdon 800 SX.  Guido and Dion endorsed it, says so right on the box.

 

I haven't fished with it yet, but I have played with it in the yard with a half ounce practice plug, and 17 lb mono.  It worked ok.  I plan on using it first as a spinner bait reel and it could throw that practice plug as far as I've ever needed to throw a spinner bait.  Practice plugs are smooth and cast easy.  It remains to be seen how it will cast a spinner bait with the wind resistance of the bait and what not..  When there is no resistance, the wave bar doesn't seem to lay the line down very smoothly.  When there is resistance, it works fine - so far.

[georgeyew]

I also bought one from Cabela's last year. Although I am not an expert on baitcaster reels, I like my Hibdon reel a lot. I don't have any issues with the line laying unevenly (as long as you thread the line under the leverwind bar). I have used it plenty this winter but have only caught 2 fish. I will hopefully put it through a workout this season. Also, the value will depend on how much you are paying for it. I also got mine for a relatively cheap price.

[fowlskies]

I bought one around Xmas time, so far I really like it but I haven't put it through the paces.  I've only messed around out in the yard and one time off a bank, but man it casts and pitches a bait a mile.  

 

I just bought a Citica 200e and can't wait to compare the two when the weather warms since their original prices were very similar.