The Tatula CT/Fuego CT and Misconceptions

[MisterDeadeye]

There's no denying that Daiwa's Tatula CT and Fuego CT are fantastic reels at an even more fantastic price. On eBay, you can grab a Tatula CT for ~$97 from various sellers, and you can get a Fuego CT for ~$65. So, the question then becomes, do I spend an extra $30 on the Tatula, or is the Fuego good enough?

 

I've had that question myself, and when I first created an account here, I made a thread asking about reel recommendations. Many people recommended these two reels, and most of those people suggested going for the Tatula if possible, because of the TWS, because of 2 extra bearings, and because the whole thing is aluminum, including the two side plates. So, despite the fact that I was set on getting a Casitas, I started looking into these reels. Over on another forum(I don't want to say it by name, because I'm not affiliated with them and don't know how the moderation team feels about "advertising" a "competitor"), someone last year made a thread complaining about their Tatula CT. The biggest gripe was that Daiwa AU described the Tatula CT as having an aluminum side plate, but after taking apart the reel, this user found composite("plastic"). In that thread is a picture of the side plate, as well as a screenshot of Daiwa's description which does indeed indicate an aluminum side plate.

 

Looking deeper into this discrepancy, I pulled up the parts diagram for the Tatula CT as well as for the Fuego, to figure out what was actually different between them. I'll have a picture of the diagrams below, but while I was looking, I noticed part #51. The Fuego's shows a honeycomb pattern, indicating a composite side plate, while the Tatula's showed no pattern, seemingly indicating a difference in composition. Still though, the Tatula CT is actually a few grams lighter than the Fuego, despite the T-Wing and the parts required to move it back and forth. This didn't add up. With the slightly heavier line guide and a few bits of plastic to make it interface with the thumb bar, there's no way that the side plate could be aluminum as well and still result in a lighter reel considering the generally shared parts.

 

Then, I decided to look up the Tatula CT Type R, and in that diagram, you can clearly see the same honeycomb pattern found in the Fuego. The Tatula SV TW diagram tells the same story. Assuming that the Tatula CT is not defying physics and that Daiwa wouldn't be using cheaper materials in their more expensive reels, I came to the conclusion that the Tatula CT does not actually have aluminum side plates(or at least on the gear side). From there, I looked at the other differences, specifically the bearing count. After combing through each part listed on both of the diagrams, I realized that they share the same number of bearings. The only part in the diagrams that wasn't broken down fully was the handle itself(part #94 in both diagrams). Therefore, the only potential place that 2 extra bearings could exist, is in the two handle knobs.

 

Okay, so at that point I was ready to make this thread, mostly to dispel the idea that the Tatula CT has aluminum side plates, but to point out just how similar these reels actually are. Still though, I decided to contact Daiwa myself to get some confirmation either way from them. This is the email I received:

 

Cool, so it's confirmed then. The Tatula CT does not have aluminum side plates. So what are the differences, really? Well, there are only a handful of parts listed that are different. The frame, the two side plates, a stabilizer bar, the spool tension knob, handle nut and plate, as well as the brake adjustment knob, are all different. Most of these differences are because of the color of paint used(frame, side plates, etc), and some are different because of the design and the way that Daiwa marks the gear ratios in the Tatula(brake adjustment knob, handle nut plate, etc). Beyond that, the worm shaft and a few more level wind parts are different because of the TWS. There's a single bearing retainer that's different(part #49), though the Tatula CT Type R shares the exact same retainer as the Fuego CT, so take that for what you will. The last difference is that there are 2 extra bearings, one in each handle knob.

 

The entire spool assembly is the same model number, the main bearings are all the same model numbers, the gears, the drive shaft, the drag star and washer system, the thumb bar, they're all the same.

 

Here's a picture of the two parts diagrams, highlighting each bearing, as well as the single retainer that's different:

 

 

To put it simply, the Tatula CT and the Fuego CT are the same reel, with the exceptions of the TWS and two handle knob bearings, which are the reasons for an extra $30. Are those differences worth an extra $30? I can't say because it will largely depend on you. I will say that I absolutely love my Fuego CT, and that Daiwa's more expensive reels are fantastic as well.

[BigAngus752]

I own one Fuego CT,  two Tatula CTs, and a Tatula SV.  The Fuego and Tatula cast and perform the same (at least as much as I can use a reel and I am not a pro by any means).  The Tatulas are much prettier.  The SV significantly outperforms both CTs in some specific areas.  I'm not upset that I spent $20 more on my Tatula CTs (I got them on sale) than I did on my Fuego.  That being said, my next purchase will be another Fuego or another SV depending upon my needs.  And may I add, that's a heckuva lot of research you did.  That's impressive.  I hope you're feeling better now...?

[Choporoz]

I appreciate the in-depth analysis. Thank you.

 

I was going to post something about my Tat experiences, particularly with regards to Type-R's....and maybe ask for a little more clarity on others in the Tat line up.  So, I went to Daiwa's and TW's web sites and there are 24 and 23 different baitcasting reels....7 or 8 of which are all Tat's (and Fuego).  To make matters more confusing for me, TW is 'closing out' Type R's....seems like they were just introduced a couple years ago....anyway, aside from detailing particular differences, I'll just say that I'm extremely happy with my Type R's - and I am not going to try to keep up :)

[r83srock]

Thanks for sharing this, and nice research! My dad and I are both big on shimano, but Daiwa has been putting out some impressive looking stuff. I just ordered a Fuego ct100h for my dad for his birthday and a Fuego ct100xs for myself. I’m excited about them, they feel very palmable, much like my old curado 100b’s. I have a Casitas, great casting reel  btw, a good finesse reel, I just cant seem to get too comfortable palming it, but I like it none the less. I am anxious for our new reels, anxious to try an 8:1.1 ratio reel for bottom contact, I have high hopes for the Daiwa.

[CrankFate]

All I’m going to say is handle knob bearings are overrated. I notice no difference between knobs on bearings, knobs on bushings or knobs with holes through them with no bearings or bushings.

 

The T-wing is nice and does make a difference. But if it was up to me, they’d make one with a synchronized level wind because that works best with thin braid.

 

The one thing the schematics do not show is how precisely engineered and manufactured these reels are. Pretty amazing, really.

 

[MisterDeadeye]

On 8/2/2018 at 6:27 PM, r83srock said:

Thanks for sharing this, and nice research! My dad and I are both big on shimano, but Daiwa has been putting out some impressive looking stuff. I just ordered a Fuego ct100h for my dad for his birthday and a Fuego ct100xs for myself. I’m excited about them, they feel very palmable, much like my old curado 100b’s. I have a Casitas, great casting reel  btw, a good finesse reel, I just cant seem to get too comfortable palming it, but I like it none the less. I am anxious for our new reels, anxious to try an 8:1.1 ratio reel for bottom contact, I have high hopes for the Daiwa.

 

When I was considering a reel, I took a good hard look at the Casitas. In fact my first thread here was asking people to talk me out of getting one. The main reason I had for getting one was its insane casting ability(distance with everything from light to heavy lures mostly), even though it's supposed to be notoriously "geary" feeling and it has the composite frame. I'd considered all comparable reels, the Daiwa Fuego CT/Tatula CT, Lew's, Abu Garcia Revo X, Quantum Accurist, KastKing, etc.

 

After I looked into the Magforce brake system, and realized that I could get a brand new Fuego CT for <$55 on eBay(from a retailer, not a random person), I just stopped thinking and bit the bullet. I'm extremely happy with it. As far as I can tell there's no friction when turning the handle or spool, and it's silent in that regard, it feels great in the hand, and the brakes are just phenomenal. I've thrown 1/4oz crankbaits and large spinnerbaits with large trailers, senkos various ways, etc, and I've had to make no adjustments at all after setting it up initially.

[FishDewd]

I handled (fondled even) a Fuego CT today at an undisclosed location that was for sale for $62. Reason it was only $62 was that the box had been damaged, and it was a left handed reel- which is exactly what I prefer now a days. The Tackle Monkey is calling me hard. Was a nice little reel for $62. I might just have to buy it to replace a dinosaur round reel that's just too big and heavy for bass fishing.

[GReb]

I have both and like both. They fish the same. Tatula visually looks better IMO but that doesn’t matter. I should say I had both because the wife stole the Fuego from me and I am now using her old LFS

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Imo all else being equal I wouldn't pay $1 extra for the T wing. I have an original Tatula and like it, don't get me wrong. The T wing is gimmicky and unnecessarily complicates service. 

[Mikeltee]

I had a Tatula SV for a week. Spent an afternoon at the river in the rain a few days ago. The following day the Twing would only go back in place if I snapped the handle real  hard. When it's not in place, the disengage bar would not reset. I wont buy another Twing. The parts are cheap plastic and wont survive in the long run. As the ol saying goes... a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. I wish they made the SV without Twing as I would replace all my reels with it if that were the case. It's super easy to tune to each lure, it feels like a zillion bucks, and all parts aside from the Twing appear to be super stable. I took it back to Cabelas a few minutes ago and ordered a Lews. 

[MisterDeadeye]

1 hour ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

Imo all else being equal I wouldn't pay $1 extra for the T wing. I have an original Tatula and like it, don't get me wrong. The T wing is gimmicky and unnecessarily complicates service. 

Have you tried experimenting with various parts to see if it's possible to modify a Tatula SV(or even something like the Steez somehow), to have the standard line guide? I know there are several parts that would need to be changed between the thumb bar and the line guide, the worm gear, pawl, the parts that move the T-Wing mechanically etc. I wonder if some of these parts on, say, a Fuego CT or older Daiwa reel, could be swapped over. 

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Sure you could disable or convert the T wing but there's no advantage there. It works fine, just isn't the game changer they hype it to be. Just another way to skin the same cat.

[BigAngus752]

22 hours ago, FishDewd said:

I handled (fondled even) a Fuego CT today at an undisclosed location that was for sale for $62. Reason it was only $62 was that the box had been damaged, and it was a left handed reel- which is exactly what I prefer now a days. The Tackle Monkey is calling me hard. Was a nice little reel for $62. I might just have to buy it to replace a dinosaur round reel that's just too big and heavy for bass fishing.

That's a good price.  I also fish lefty and current price for a Fuego CT on ebay is $65.  I have a Tatula SV, a Tatula CT, and now the Fuego CT.  I would (and will) buy any of them again.  I expect to buy another Fuego and another SV within the year.  I recommend you grab that one.  The Tatula CT is prettier but the Fuego performs the same (as far as my abilities go) and I wouldn't pay extra for the Tatula CT again.  

[iabass8]

2 hours ago, Mikeltee said:

I wish they made the SV without Twing as I would replace all my reels with it if that were the case.. 

There’s tons of daiwas that are tws and use the sv spool. Theres also countless individual sv spools available for after market purchase. Its been around for 6+ years.

[MassYak85]

IMO the best part of both reels is the magforce system so you can't go wrong with either. That being said I do like the T-wing and would (have) payed more for it. But that's coming from someone who always uses braid mainline and having the reduced angle of line coming off the spool is helpful since braid can dig. Using mono or fluoro I doubt I'd see much difference. 

[CrankFate]

4 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

Imo all else being equal I wouldn't pay $1 extra for the T wing. I have an original Tatula and like it, don't get me wrong. The T wing is gimmicky and unnecessarily complicates service. 

Service? I consider myself pretty OK with reels and small parts. And they always work as they should when I put everything back together. Maybe that’s because there’s no way in hell I am taking something like that thing off.  God bless you if you remove and reassemble T wings.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

On 8/3/2018 at 10:08 PM, CrankFate said:

Service? I consider myself pretty OK with reels and small parts. And they always work as they should when I put everything back together. Maybe that’s because there’s no way in hell I am taking something like that thing off.  God bless you if you remove and reassemble T wings.

That's the business I'm in so I don't have a choice. Lol hence my disdain 

[Fishydishy]

On 7/28/2018 at 7:29 PM, BigAngus752 said:

I own one Fuego CT,  two Tatula CTs, and a Tatula SV.  The Fuego and Tatula cast and perform the same (at least as much as I can use a reel and I am not a pro by any means).  The Tatulas are much prettier.  The SV significantly outperforms both CTs in some specific areas.  I'm not upset that I spent $20 more on my Tatula CTs (I got them on sale) than I did on my Fuego.  That being said, my next purchase will be another Fuego or another SV depending upon my needs.  And may I add, that's a heckuva lot of research you did.  That's impressive.  I hope you're feeling better now...?

Is the tatula ct smaller than the Fuego? More palmable?

[MN Fisher]

4 minutes ago, Fishydishy said:

Is the tatula ct smaller than the Fuego? More palmable?

The Tatula CT uses the same frame, spool and main gears as the Fuego CT. The only differences are the T-Wing in the Tat along with bearings in the crank handles...otherwise they're identical.

[garroyo130]

Tatula CT also offers a 5.5:1 gear ratio while the Fuego CT does not.

[Rayh20]

I have both of them, I started with the tat ct I like it a lot just feel the handle or the knobs are a bit small for my liking, and I also changed all the bearings. Just recently picked up the fuego and the only difference I notice is the t-wing and the grip knobs are different, but it’s pretty much the same exact reel, they are both excellent for the money can’t go wrong with either one. Although if you tie leaders a lot I’d go fuego the t-wing will catch on the knot

[MN Fisher]

20 minutes ago, Rayh20 said:

I have both of them, I started with the tat ct I like it a lot just feel the handle or the knobs are a bit small for my liking, and I also changed all the bearings. Just recently picked up the fuego and the only difference I notice is the t-wing and the grip knobs are different, but it’s pretty much the same exact reel, they are both excellent for the money can’t go wrong with either one. Although if you tie leaders a lot I’d go fuego the t-wing will catch on the knot

Old info...

The Tatula CT and Fuego CT are basically the same reel. Frame, main gears, spool - all identical. The Tat replaces the standard aperture with the T-Wing, and puts two bearings in the handle-knobs (the two more bearings the Tat has over the Fuego)...that's it, otherwise they're the exact same.

[Tatulatard]

Back in 2018 when the fuego ct was $65 and only based on a 2 year old platform that itself is a narrow spool version of what was then a 4 year old platform. Now you're lucky to get one for $85 in 2022 and it's still the same reel from 2017 or whenever it came out.  

[BrianMDTX]

I have a Tatula and a Fuego. I like both. From my experience I can cast a bit farther with the Tatula. 

[newapti5]

Some differences aren't so easy to tell, especially the tolerance and material minor differences. But in long term, it usually tells. 

 

Regarding T-wing, it won't make as much difference on lighter lines as on heavy lines.