Question re: Shimano Aldebaran BFS reel

[FryDog62]

Wondering for those that have this reel - if you’ve noticed that the retrieve (reeling the lure back towards you) is harder to do? Does it feel like there is more resistance reeling in? 
 

I recently received an Aldebaran BFS and have done all the usual settings - tension knobs, brakes, drag. Casts ok, but I would say it’s about 2-3 times harder to reel in. Doesn’t rub or grind, just more effort. Can do it, but doesn’t feel like any other reel (BFS or non-BFS) that I’ve ever owned. 
 

Is this just the unique feel of this particular reel? I also have a Curado BFS and 2 other brands of BFS reels. They are completely effortless to retrieve. Not this one…
 

Thoughts? 

[FishTank]

I have this one and have had no issues but it did take some getting use to initially. It's smooth and easy to retrieve.  As far as your reel goes, I would check to see if the line you have on is making contact with frame or is digging in under the spool.  

 

Caught this guy tonight on it with a topwater bug and 5lb test line. Always a blast to catch them on BFS gear.

 

[FryDog62]

24 minutes ago, FishTank said:

As far as your reel goes, I would check to see if the line you have on is making contact with frame or is digging in under the spool.  

I don’t believe that’s the issue, and would think if it was - it would affect casting as well which it does not appear to.

[FishTank]

2 minutes ago, FryDog62 said:

I don’t believe that’s the issue, and would think if it was - it would affect casting as well which it does not appear to.

 

Is it the same without the spool in it?

[FryDog62]

6 minutes ago, FishTank said:

 

Is it the same without the spool in it?

Good idea, will try that next.  Thx

[Dye99]

I do not have that issue with mine at all.

[Bigbox99]

Loosen your spool tension if it is set for anything more than to just eliminate side to side play.  

[softwateronly]

I've had some Shimanos come out of the box heavily greased.  Working some oil in there as helped me loosen it up in the past.  Hard for me to say if this your issue though.

 

scott

[FryDog62]

Somethings not right with the reel, am exchanging it for a new one but won’t be back in town til mid week to test out.  Fingers crossed I just got a lemon 🍋

[FryDog62]

Conclusion: Reel was a lemon. Sent it back in exchange for the exact same reel. Works like it should, and I’m back on the water 👍

[casts_by_fly]

40 minutes ago, FryDog62 said:

Conclusion: Reel was a lemon. Sent it back in exchange for the exact same reel. Works like it should, and I’m back on the water 👍

 

How do you rate the aldebaran vs the curado and Ark?  A JDM aldebaran isn't much more expensive than a curado right now.

[Reel]

1 hour ago, FryDog62 said:

Conclusion: Reel was a lemon. Sent it back in exchange for the exact same reel. Works like it should, and I’m back on the water 👍

It might have been one of those yellow fruits, but you would be surprised to see how many reels are dropped on the floor in a tackle shop.  Things happen and glad you got it resolved.

[FryDog62]

1 hour ago, casts_by_fly said:

 

How do you rate the aldebaran vs the curado and Ark?  A JDM aldebaran isn't much more expensive than a curado right now.

I'm anxious to find out - unfortunately my schedule now is uncertain but looking forward to testing all the gear out! 

[casts_by_fly]

52 minutes ago, FryDog62 said:

I'm anxious to find out - unfortunately my schedule now is uncertain but looking forward to testing all the gear out! 

can't wait for that post to compare them.  I think I know what the answer is going to be based on reviews and others feedback, but you're doing what I want to do so...

[FryDog62]

23 minutes ago, casts_by_fly said:

can't wait for that post to compare them.  I think I know what the answer is going to be based on reviews and others feedback, but you're doing what I want to do so...

I picked the wrong week to upgrade my Helix and add 360 Imaging to my kayak too. Waiting on transducer mount that has been delayed with USPS... then assembly before hitting the water finally.

[casts_by_fly]

50 minutes ago, FryDog62 said:

I picked the wrong week to upgrade my Helix and add 360 Imaging to my kayak too. Waiting on transducer mount that has been delayed with USPS... then assembly before hitting the water finally.

I'll need pictures of that too...

 

I debated live vs 360 a year ago and went with live.  I still think its the right choice, but I could be swayed.  That said, I haven't even put the helix in the boat for the past 4-5 trips.  

[FryDog62]

40 minutes ago, casts_by_fly said:

I'll need pictures of that too...

 

I debated live vs 360 a year ago and went with live.  I still think its the right choice, but I could be swayed.  That said, I haven't even put the helix in the boat for the past 4-5 trips.  

If given the choice of Live or 360, I think Live is the better choice if you're only going to have one. I am adding Helix/360 to my existing Garmin/Livescope. Two transducer poles in the water, we'll see how it works, or if I trip any gators below lol.