Swimbait Reel Options

[Tadas Sereiva]

I am looking at getting a 300 size reel for my larger swimbaits (3-6oz.). I do not want to spend more than ~$140.

Originally, I was looking at a Shimano Cardiff 301A, but I saw that Sportsman's Outfitters has the Lew's Super Duty 300 for $135. How does the Super Duty 300 compare in terms of refinement and durability? I have exclusively used Shimano/Daiwa reels up until now and have heard varying opinions on Lew's quality (i.e. being made in the same factory as Abu, BPS, etc.).

Any opinions are welcomed. Thanks in advance.

Edited June 3, 2021 by Tadas Sereiva
Added Price Range

[Hammer 4]

Diawa Tatula 300, if it's in your price range.

[Born 2 fish]

I use a Lews super duty wide spool for that size swim baits and it’s been flawless. Much nicer than the Cardiff I used to use. But I prefer low profile reels over round reels. Lews quality to me is great I clean and maintain my reels yearly and never had any issues. 

[GreenPig]

  On 6/3/2021 at 11:48 PM, Born 2 fish said:

I use a Lews super duty wide spool for that size swim baits and it’s been flawless. Much nicer than the Cardiff I used to use. But I prefer low profile reels over round reels. Lews quality to me is great I clean and maintain my reels yearly and never had any issues. 

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I also use the Lew's Super Duty Wide on up to 4 oz swimbaits. 

[Oldskool67]

 I like my Lexa 300

[NorcalBassin]

Never used that Lew's but I will say I was pleasantly surprised with how well the Cardiff casted when I put it on a Dobyns 806. Not the most refined reel you'll ever see, but at that price point it performs really well. 

[ATA]

My 300 reels are tranx and Abu toro beast, If they are expensive for you, take look at Shimano curd K 300, believe me thats what you looking for, I have 150 size and it is the best reel in that price range.

[Blaine Donders]

My brother has a Piscifun Alijoz that is really nice for $100. I wouldn’t discount it.
 

I had a Lew’s Super Duty 300. It was good as well, I just use a 200 for the swim baits I use.

[Michigander]

  On 6/6/2021 at 3:43 PM, Blaine Donders said:

My brother has a Piscifun Alijoz that is really nice for $100. I wouldn’t discount it.
 

I had a Lew’s Super Duty 300. It was good as well, I just use a 200 for the swim baits I use.

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I also have the Alijoz, it's fine but I don't think I would really recommend it for various reasons.

[jimmyjoe]

   FWIW, the Cardiff is easily maintained. It's easy to disassemble, clean, repair if needed and re-assemble. Don't know how important that is to you.               jj