Which Shimano Reels

[GMO187]

I just picked up 2 Kistler H3's, 7' H XF, and 6'9" MH XF.  My plan was to pick up 2 Shimano Curado 70's to pair with them.  I'll throw a million different things on these rods, primarily- swim jigs, spinner baits, chatter baits, 1/2oz > jigs, T-rigs, etc.  

 

My rod arsenal isn't huge, and I'm trying to pick up gear that lasts.  I have a Chronarch MGL, but I'm struggling which new reels to pickup.

I like the idea of the 70 size, cheaper to spool, lightweight, and fits better in hand.

But would the Bantam MGL, or another be a better option?  I want something that will last and disappears in the hand.  Either spending $350 on two reels now, or one now and one a little later on.

Thanks for the help.

[The Maestro]

The Bantam MGL is a fantastic reel. It's very compact in size as well.

[GReb]

Check out Digitaka.  The Yen is low and JDM reels can be had at a stupid discount right now.

[FishTank]

I love the Bantam I have.  I think it would be great for t-rigged soft plastic and jigs but for spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, etc. I would get the Curado DC.  Those baits can turn into a kite and the DC is built to handle those types of conditions. It's still smooth and it's just slightly smaller than most reels so it's easy to palm.

[jimmyjoe]

   I have a Curado 70. I love it, but I think it doesn't have enough "guts" for using with those rods and the attendant lures. I had mine on a MH/F, and I've had it sent into Shimano for noise and roughness. They replaced the gears. That's why I think that a 70 doesn't have the robust construction for heavier stuff. If I'm wrong about that, I'm sure there are people here who will tell me so.  

   Now the Bantam .... well, that's an entirely different beast.  ?  jj

[OnthePotomac]

I will throw in the Curado K for consideration.  I have three and about to have four and also have three 70's.  Numerous critics on here regarding the K , but I have not experienced anything they have negative comments on.  I am no whiz bang reel expert (but I do maintain my own reels) and only know mine have been superb in every respect no matter the lure I use with them. All of mine are 8.5:1 and very smooth.

[jakkbauer]

i have 2 curado k and 2 chronarch ci4 on my casting rigs... if you want a smaller reel go with bantam or maybe look at some chronarchs or the bantam which is a little heavier than the chronarch but still small. if you want light chronarch will be your answer or if you want small and sturdy like a tank the bantam. i dont think i would necessarily recommend a curado k though as it is larger profile, and heavier than chronarch so in your case i might just drop the cash on the bantam. not that curado is bad but i just use it for heavier rigs and the chronarch fits that nice in between that and my spinning gear  

[Catt]

Personally I would go with two reels verses one but I would play it a little different.

 

I would get a Curado 70 & a Citica.

 

The Citica is an excellent choice for Swim Jigs, Spinnerbaits, Chatterbaits