low profile swimbait reel questions

[ElectricAngler]

Hi all, looking to get into swimbait fishing with my nephew and a little stuck on my reel options. I know round reels work well here but I'm really interested in trying a big 300 size low profile reel. Im typically pretty into Daiwa, but the Lexa options seem pretty limited to me. I like the left handed models and they don't seem to make one for left handed retrievers below 7.1:1. I went with the Okuma guide select 1-6oz rod, does anyone have any experience or opinions throwing swimbaits in this range with a speedier reel? I think I could slow down easily enough, but I hear people talk about needing the extra torque to pull those heavy baits properly. I don't totally believe that, but I also don't know enough to dispute it. I'm sure it does help. I also can get a pretty good deal on one of these reels, but it comes with a power handle.. I don't know what application is actually benefited by a power handle, but I'm kind of doubting it's swimbaits. Any opinions on this would help me out a lot. Could always pick up a Daiwa custom handle down the line.

 

Otherwise I'm looking at an Okuma Komodo, but I am really put off by the non disengaging level wind. Seems like it could be a pain in the butt. I'd love to hear about this reel from anyone that owns it as well.

 

My last option is the *** A3. Can't find a great deal, but it comes in a lower gear ratio and with a paddle handle.. so I'm thinking of testing my luck and going for it. If anyone has used all of these reels I'd love to hear about it. Also thought about a tranx but they seem hard to find with my specs and/or a little pricey..

 

Thanks for any thoughts on this, I appreciate it

[bigturtle]

Daiwa tatula hd

[smithy97]

2 hours ago, bigturtle said:

Daiwa tatula hd

x2

[Fishingmickey]

Shimano Curado 300E or the Shimano Tranx.  Both would be good reels for large bait applications IMHO.  The Curado is 6.2:1 and the Tranx is available in 5.8:1 and 7.6:1 ratios.

FM

[Bluebasser86]

I use a 300E Curado and an Okuma Citrix (as well as a 400B Calcutta), for my swimbaits. Both are nice reels for flinging big baits. The Citrix has a higher line capacity and better casting distance, so I use it for bigger baits, with the 300E for the 2-3.5 ounce baits. They both work great.

[Chance_Taker4]

I use the Ardent Apex Magnum reel. It is one of my favorite reels because it is based of the Apex Elite platform and IMO that is a very under rated reel.

[DINK WHISPERER]

Tatula 200 HD