Which Reel?

[Sneaky Pete]

I am looking to add another rod to my line up. I would like to get a set up for lighter baits, like weightless light. I could also use it for fishing finesse jigs and what have you since I live in Minnesota. Although I'm looking for more input on the reel side, I should probably say that I am planning to get something like a 6'10" to 7'0" medium fast action rod. Possibly the newer Ducket Triad since I really like my Micro Magic.

 

So as I mentioned before I need a lightweight reel that can cast light weight baits well. I have recently fallen in love with Daiwa, I bought a Tatula CT and a CT Type-R. So far I have narrowed my search to the new Tatula SV TWS because of the SV spool, and the solid platform. I also have really caught the itch for the Daiwa T3. I know it's not a new reel, but it can be found new on Ebay fairly easily. I would like to hear any and all of you guy's thoughts on all of the models like the T3 Ballistic, MX, 1016 and so on. Unfortunately the T3 SV looks to be much more expensive. 

 

Like I said, I would love to hear your thoughts on my narrowed choices, as well as some other recommendations if you have any. Thanks!

[Zippyduck Krimm]

Tatula sv is very good for the money but the pixy 68 is outstanding.

[ib_of_the_damned]

How light are you thinking lure wise? Under 1/4 oz? If so, I am in the market for a reel like that as well. I have a Tatula SV on the way and from what I have read, it is a great light weight caster. Also I have a Revo STX that casts Flukes, weightless 3.8 Keitech SIFs and Easy Shiners, Senkos, etc. pretty well.  

 

I've also been researching/looking for SV spools or BFS spools to try to turn my Tatula Tactical into a lightweight caster. 

[Yudo1]

Any of the sv spool variants should work.  I have an alphas sv, t3 mx with an sv1000 spool, px type r and I can go pretty light with any of them.  If you really want to go finesse, the diy spools from ray's studio are a pretty inexpensive option.  They make them for a variety of daiwa and shimano reels.  The only downside is the low line capacity, but I use 15lb braid and get plenty of line.

[kickerfish1]

For a new reel, I would opt for the Alphas SV 105.

[Jeff H]

I think the T3's are fantastic with the exception of the drag star and handle (I prefer 90mm).  I've read the gripes about frame flex and I think that is fabricated BS<snip>. I have tried to induce this in normal use and it has not happened for me.  Others have griped about the "hollow" feel under load and I have not experienced that either.  I believe these high grade, exotic composites are the future and I like this Zaion stuff!  The T3 will fill small hands nicely but I have 2XL mitts and do struggle just a bit with the small size. 3D braking is quite incredible. Overall performance, at least what I've used them for, has been stellar.  I would never have given the original $429 retail price but for what they can be had for now they are worth considering.

[DaveT63]

The Pixy and the Alphas SV 105 have already been mentioned.  Both are great reels for light weights and can be found for good prices used on the bay.  Another option is the Steez.  If you are patient you can find them for a reasonable price.  I just won a like new Steez 103HL on the bay tonight for $187 with free shipping.  It's tough to find a better reel for that money, and I understand you can buy SV reels to fit.

[Yudo1]

I love my t3mx with sv1000 deep spool.  The 3d braking is my favorite system.  I'd personally pass on the ballistic though because the spool was too heavy and struggled with sub 5/16 and the retrieve was rough because of no drive shaft bearing.  You can find 1016's pretty cheap.  The steez 103 can be finicky with the stock r+ spool and fluoro because the braking profile is so light.  I put the spool in tdz 103ml and it flies.  I have a 1016 in my steez and it rocks.