New Caenan vs Speed Spool LFS

[brantley5]

They're both $99.99. I have the Speed Spool LFS and have been impressed by it so far. The new Shimano Caenan seems like a nice reel. Being a Shimano reel, I'd imagine it casts better than the Lew's. The Speed Spool has 10 bearings and the Caenan only has 5. Anyone have experience with the new Shimano Caenan?

[PitchinJigz]

I highly doubt anyone on here has already had use out of the Caenan. It's not a very hyped up reel, but that doesn't mean it's a bad reel. I wouldn't pay attention to the bearing count very much. Shimano is famous for making better use out of less bearings. Personally I would pick the Caenan over the LFS because I trust Shimano quite a bit, and I've had some bad experiences with Lew's reels.

[Robert Riley]

If you plan on eventually buying higher end reels, I'd recommend the Shimano. I think Lew's makes the better reels in the $200 and under category. 

[Grantman83]

Honestly I would still still trust the aluminum frame for the Lews.  The new caenan is certainly an upgrade over the previous version but the aluminum frame would make the Lews more versatile for heavier applications where frame flex might be an issue

[smallies24/7]

Lews owns the $100 market in my opinion. Ive also heard the new Caenan uses a graphite frame, so Lews all the way for me.

[smalljaw67]

No comparison, the Lews has an aluminum frame and is actually a little lighter. They did improve the Caenan but it still can't compete with the Lews at the same price point just for the fact of the aluminum frame.

[JGBassinAL]

I have handled and casted the Caenan and it is crazy smooth and palms great. I cant recommend it as I haven't fished with it. I haven't fished the Lews either but I would pick it over the Caenan because, as others have stated, the aluminum frame. 

[lmbfisherman]

Shimano fan but I would also agree lews because of the aluminum frame.  If you want Shimano go with the Citica.

[Wingman87]

Or just add $10 and pick up a new tournament mb on eBay (best route in my opinion). I'm not knocking the Lfs it's a great reel but for just a bit more the mb is a no brainer. Pick one up and I guarantee u will not be disappointed.

[Mumbly]

12 minutes ago, Wingman87 said:

Or just add $10 and pick up a new tournament mb on eBay (best route in my opinion). I'm not knocking the Lfs it's a great reel but for just a bit more the mb is a no brainer. Pick one up and I guarantee u will not be disappointed.

Do what Wingman87 suggested or if you really like the LFS they can be had for $80 with free shipping.

[Sneed618]

I picked up a lews tournament mb lfs from jet.com for 95 bucks, so if you are looking at lews I would check this deal out!  They also had it to me in three days so it's legit.

[ibobpeb]

Another vote for Lews Tournament MB. If you really want Shimano,  go for the Casitas instead because it has the new brake system. The Caenan still has the old brakes and it doesn't have the outside dial brake like the Casitas. Also the Casitas casts farther than the Curado I. I've had them all and not loyal to any brand.

[burrows]

Shimano caenan!