High End Reels: Baitcasting

[stkbassn]

Why does it seem like most of the high end baitcasters are "finesse" casters? I guess I don't understand why I would pay say $300 for reel that holds not a lot of line but might cast a 1/8 oz bait or rig. Why not just get a decent spinning reel for this and never worry about casting distance or backlashes? 

 

Why not more 200 sized or at least 200 "capacity" reels in a 100 size on the higher end?

 

I'd be more inclined to purchase some of the big ticket reels if this was the case....do they perform the same duties as some of the workhorses like the Curado?

 

I'm just trying to get more educated on the subject so any input would be welcomed as long as it's not insulting or smart arse....

 

Thanks!

[roadwarrior]

The only technique I fish where additional capacity comes into play is long lining crankbaits.

I prefer a shallow spool on the 50 size Shimano reels.

[ThatZX14Fella]

Why does it seem like most of the high end baitcasters are "finesse" casters? I guess I don't understand why I would pay say $300 for reel that holds not a lot of line but might cast a 1/8 oz bait or rig. Why not just get a decent spinning reel for this and never worry about casting distance or backlashes? 

 

Why not more 200 sized or at least 200 "capacity" reels in a 100 size on the higher end?

 

I'd be more inclined to purchase some of the big ticket reels if this was the case....do they perform the same duties as some of the workhorses like the Curado?

 

I'm just trying to get more educated on the subject so any input would be welcomed as long as it's not insulting or smart arse....

 

Thanks!

 

I'm sure they can do all the same applications as the heavier duty reels. I've had two 100 sized reels that I've used for everything. Probably fixing to get another. As to why the companies do that, I couldn't really tell you. Maybe they think most people who are willing to put that much money in a reel are all finesse fisherman. And as for buying a spinning reel, they may be like me. I can't use a spinning reel for anything. They feel awkward, I'm not accurate with them, I cast too high and far, etc.

[rippin-lips]

I wouldn't say that they are all finesse reels.

Daiwa and Shimano both have plenty of reels that are $300 and not finesse. I have no need for a reel that holds a lot of line. Anything over 150 yards is way too much. For me I don't need a spool that holds any more than 75-90 yards of #10-20

[Goose52]

There are all sorts of "high-end" reels with varying capacities. Sure, some of them are finesse/BFS type reels - it's a popular fad right now. BUT, there are also high-end reels that hold all the line you can use of about any pound-test applicable to bass fishing - larger Conquests for instance.

 

As to why one would get a finesse-type baitcasting reel instead of a spinning reel - that's been discussed many times. The answer basically is that people WANT to.  Life would be pretty boring if we were limited to only using a single tool for a technique. Lots of people like to play with lots of different stuff. Much of the variety has little to do with what is the most practical, or efficient, or effective tool for the job...but what people have the most fun in fishing.

 

Regarding whether the high-end BC reels can handle the same duties as a Curado - sure - and many of these reels do a better job than a Curado - like the Metanium for instance. If you don't mind some weight - try playing with an Antares or a Calais DC.  Lots of upper end reels are not only a delight to use, but are very effective, and in some cases superior, tools as well.  As to whether these reels offer value/performance/enjoyment commensurate with their added cost - that's up to each angler to decide...

[stkbassn]

Thanks for the reply guys. I suppose really long casts aren't necessary for a lot of applications. I guess I've just gotten used to my 200 sized reels and 100 sized reels that hold more line like the Curado.

I've had my eye on some of the higher end Shimano offerings and will probably buy one in the near future.

 

Does anyone have a recommendation for an all purpose reel, 6.2:1 ratio or close to it?

 

Thanks again guys.

[Cgrinder]

Conquest 100 - 400, Met, Antares. Do you require further options?

[Raul]

Why does it seem like most of the high end baitcasters are "finesse" casters?

 

 

 

Not true, modern day bait casters are much better designed than their predecessors with minute spools with as much or even larger line capacity that previous gen reels. Why would you want a big clunky 9+ oz reel that holds 150 yds of 10 lbs test when you can have a 8 or less oz reel capable of holding 150 yds of 12 lbs test ?

 

Spool depth, inductor, braking system, drag is what makes a finesse reel, not reel size.

[stkbassn]

Not true, modern day bait casters are much better designed than their predecessors with minute spools with as much or even larger line capacity that previous gen reels. Why would you want a big clunky 9+ oz reel that holds 150 yds of 10 lbs test when you can have a 8 or less oz reel capable of holding 150 yds of 12 lbs test ? 

 

I didn't mean to imply that I wanted a "clunky" reel. The clunkiest that I own if you could call it that are my Chronarch 100B's but I wouldn't trade em'. I have a Metanium 2005 XT and it's a dream really. I love the Curado's , Tatulas, Chronarchs, etc. I just noticed that the capacity on those seems to be higher than some like the Steez, new Metanium, Aldebaran? (spelling might be off there..) If none of those reels will limit my casting then I might pick one up. That's mainly what I was getting at. Of course there is the Scorpion 200 that's like the Curado I....but I hear there isn't much of a difference save some handle bearings?

[thehooligan]

Why does it seem like most of the high end baitcasters are "finesse" casters? I guess I don't understand why I would pay say $300 for reel that holds not a lot of line but might cast a 1/8 oz bait or rig. Why not just get a decent spinning reel for this and never worry about casting distance or backlashes? 

 

Why not more 200 sized or at least 200 "capacity" reels in a 100 size on the higher end?

 

I'd be more inclined to purchase some of the big ticket reels if this was the case....do they perform the same duties as some of the workhorses like the Curado?

 

I'm just trying to get more educated on the subject so any input would be welcomed as long as it's not insulting or smart arse....

 

Thanks!

 

Pretty much everything has been covered, but ill add that japan has tons of fishermen and lots of pressure on there lakes. They take a finesse approach and use light line, shallow spools, and very light baits. Daiwa, shimano, and Abu have been making some awesome bfs reels for years and its finally catching on a little bit here now.

 

Also, if you really check out daiwa/megabass & shimanos highend lineup, theres so many more options for high line capacity reels. I dont use abu's, but i give them credit, jdm abu is really pumping out the most bfs reels in there lineup at the moment.

 

Daiwa is the only company thats going to be marketing anything close to finesse here in the US with the alphas sv 105... 

[Cgrinder]

I didn't mean to imply that I wanted a "clunky" reel. The clunkiest that I own if you could call it that are my Chronarch 100B's but I wouldn't trade em'. I have a Metanium 2005 XT and it's a dream really. I love the Curado's , Tatulas, Chronarchs, etc. I just noticed that the capacity on those seems to be higher than some like the Steez, new Metanium, Aldebaran? (spelling might be off there..) If none of those reels will limit my casting then I might pick one up. That's mainly what I was getting at. Of course there is the Scorpion 200 that's like the Curado I....but I hear there isn't much of a difference save some handle bearings?

 

If you're looking for casting distance, do yourself a favor and buy a 2014/15 Conquest 100 or 200 (HG optional) depending on line and bait. They are distance machines. Palm nice, too.

[Raul]

I didn't mean to imply that I wanted a "clunky" reel. The clunkiest that I own if you could call it that are my Chronarch 100B's but I wouldn't trade em'. I have a Metanium 2005 XT and it's a dream really. I love the Curado's , Tatulas, Chronarchs, etc. I just noticed that the capacity on those seems to be higher than some like the Steez, new Metanium, Aldebaran? (spelling might be off there..) If none of those reels will limit my casting then I might pick one up. That's mainly what I was getting at. Of course there is the Scorpion 200 that's like the Curado I....but I hear there isn't much of a difference save some handle bearings?

 

I do own Chonarch 100Bs ( we had the BSV version, had a much deeper spool but it was not a wiffle spool ) and Metanium XTs, both have shallower and less line capacity that the Steez has. The new Metanium is in the same ballpark of the old CH100B  and the Met XT, nothing has changed much in that department;  the catch with the Aldebaran is that it has always been a 50 size reel, that one really is a finesse reel.

[FishTank]

I would say the Chronarch 50e would be a good choice.  It's small, light weight, cast a mile, has plenty of power, and is smooth to boot and it is under $200.   It makes for a great jig and worm reel.  

[Goose52]

Does anyone have a recommendation for an all purpose reel, 6.2:1 ratio or close to it?

 

Yes - especially since you have an earlier model for comparison. JDM 2013 Metanium, standard model, 6.2:1 / 26 ipt, 6 ounces, adequate line capacity.  It has all the latest features - SVS infinity braking, micro-module gearing, X-ship, etc.  Only $260 at Japan Lure Shop (and may be cheaper at other vendors).  Of course, no U.S. warranty, but parts are available in the U.S. and repair would not be a problem.

 

The dollar to yen ratio is so good now, you are getting a JDM Met for USDM CI4+ pricing.  For that $260 you are getting all the capability of a Curado, about 1.5 less ounces, a lot more refinement, and perhaps more enjoyment...

[stkbassn]

Thanks to everyone who responded. Some great info and recommendations. I appreciate you guys. Now I just need to dig deep into my wallet and let the bait monkey do what he was made to do. LOL.

[Hogsticker]

The new Daiwa 105 may be marketed as a finesse reel, but believe me, it's so much more. Fully capable of handling an 1/8 Oz jig or burning a half ounce lipless crank. Of course the appropriate rod and line help.

This original question is the exact reason are market hasn't seen finesse oriented casting reels until recently. Companies are under the impression us American anglers want tough as nails, large line capacity reels. The reality is with bass fishing there isn't much you can't do with 90 yards of Line.

If people who think the 50 series were versatile, this Usdm Alphas SV will knock your socks off. To me, that's what it's all about, versatility.

[*Hootie]

I also prefer what I call full sized reels. I have 2 Curado 50e's, and 1 Chronarch 50e which seldom get used. I use my Chronarch 200e6's and my Core 100mg7's all the time. I have looked at the Core 50mg, but never considered buying one.

Hootie

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Baitcasters aren't naturally prone to excell throwing finesse baits and it takes some refinement to to so. Hence the higher price for BFS reels. That's not to say though that all high end reels are finesse reels, but it can be argued that there is less to be gained performance wise when throwing more traditional casting baits. High end reels are an enthusiast purchase for the most part with definite diminishing return on the cost. 

[new2BC4bass]

Baitcasters aren't naturally prone to excell throwing finesse baits and it takes some refinement to to so. Hence the higher price for BFS reels. That's not to say though that all high end reels are finesse reels, but it can be argued that there is less to be gained performance wise when throwing more traditional casting baits. High end reels are an enthusiast purchase for the most part with definite diminishing return on the cost. 

 

I'm something of a reel fanatic.  Using my higher end reels (not high end to many) brings me a lot of pleasure.  However, so does the Trion you did for me.  Casts just as far as the more expensive reels with great line management now that I went to a heavier line and use heavier lures.

[roadwarrior]

Just acquired an Aldebaran. I think I'm going to like it a lot!

I will be pairing this with a Batson custom rod using the

Rainshadow Immortal blank. We'll see how this works.

 

 

 

[stkbassn]

Just acquired an Aldebaran. I think I'm going to like it a lot!

I will be pairing this with a Batson custom rod using the

Rainshadow Immortal blank. We'll see how this works.

 

 

 

Congrats. Be sure to review it once you've had a chance to get it on the water and put it through the paces. It will take some saving for me in order to pick up one of those or a Metanium but eventually I will. I don't need it but they are awesome looking reels.

[new2BC4bass]

Just acquired an Aldebaran. I think I'm going to like it a lot!

I will be pairing this with a Batson custom rod using the

Rainshadow Immortal blank. We'll see how this works.

 

 

 

 

 

I second the review request.  I've got an older RX7 Rainshadow and an RX8.  Very nice rods.