Help selecting finesse baitcaster for Daiwa AIRD 701MLXB rod

[Mhan7]

So I have an old 7' Daiwa Medium Light rod that I really like for throwing beetle spins and small spinnerbaits on.  It needs a new reel.

 

Let's just say that I'd cap any purchase at $200, absolute max.  I'd want 6-8lb of drag, and it should be able to throw down to 1/16 oz.  Like, really well.  With braid.

 

I've used this rod for years with an Abu Morrum 1600 size reel - which has, for me, been a very difficult set, that I've learned to use masterfully.  I'm ready to upgrade to something that doesn't require any "reel" skill.

So, your suggestions.  Go...

[Fishingmickey]

In the Shimano line up, Curado 70, Citica and SLX come to mind. I have all three, I haven't tried the SLX with much light stuff yet. If you went used you might be able to get your hands on a Core 50 or a Aldebran 50. Both are small framed reels that are sought after and perform very well. 

   I wonder about the Diawa Alpha SV or the Tatula 105 SV but I think they are over that price point. 

FM

[Heartland]

3 hours ago, Mhan7 said:

So I have an old 7' Daiwa Medium Light rod that I really like for throwing beetle spins and small spinnerbaits on.  It needs a new reel.

 

Let's just say that I'd cap any purchase at $200, absolute max.  I'd want 6-8lb of drag, and it should be able to throw down to 1/16 oz.  Like, really well.  With braid.

 

I've used this rod for years with an Abu Morrum 1600 size reel - which has, for me, been a very difficult set, that I've learned to use masterfully.  I'm ready to upgrade to something that doesn't require any "reel" skill.

So, your suggestions.  Go...

My experience tells me that when you speak of 1/16th of an oz. Your rod is going to play at least as big a part in the ability to make any type of cast.   Have to find a rod that will load properly with that light of weight.  Alphas SV105 would be my choice for a reel not sure what they go for these days.  A used Pixy or older Alphas might get the job done as well.  A used Sol with an SV spool.  A used Fuego with a 100M spool might be capable.

[Mhan7]

2 hours ago, BaitFinesse said:

 

Also by 1/16 oz do you mean 1/16 oz bait or a 1/16 oz lead jighead + soft plastic + whatever else?  

 

 

Yes.  That's exactly what I mean.  That's the extreme end of the scale. 1/8 oz + .... is the more likely scenario.

[Mhan7]

I've found both the Tatula CT Type R and the Tatula SV TW for a price I like.  I prefer a high gear ratio - at least 7.3, but preferrably 8.1. (because I often fish high banks on canals, and jerking the bait out of the water to clear vegetation happens often, and needs to be done quickly)

 

Given the choice of those 2 reels, which sounds more appealing?  The Alphas sounds nice, but it's $40 more.  Is there $40 more value in the reel?  I don't make a lot of trips out, but the few that I do make, see my equipment being used quite extensively for many hours at a time.  I don't mind paying a bit more, to that end.  But there has to be some value...  My currency would be lighter lure weights.

[JustJames]

For 1/8 oz total weight you should do fine with most of the reel these days. If I have to suggest, I’d say Morrum 1600 ?. That is a fine reel, I’m trying to get one (SX1600Mag) myself.

[Mhan7]

1 hour ago, JustJames said:

For 1/8 oz total weight you should do fine with most of the reel these days. If I have to suggest, I’d say Morrum 1600 ?. That is a fine reel, I’m trying to get one (SX1600Mag) myself.

The one I have is old, and I'm sure that it's nothing like whats available today. (mine is a pre-mag model)  It's d**n hard to use... Definitely requires a skilled caster, and even more so, someone with a lot of time on this particular reel.  I know I can upgrade it.

 

I think Baitfiness has pretty well sold me on the Curado 70.