Seeking Your Expertise for Reel Recommendations and Others

[EarnestDignity]

Hi everyone,

I’m in the market for several new reels this December and could really use some expert advice. I'm currently leaning towards Daiwa reels in the $200 to $300 price range, as I’ve read they’re good at minimizing backlashes, which is crucial for me as I’m still getting the hang of baitcasters. My goal is to keep my fishing experience as relaxing and stress-free as possible.

The reels I’m considering include:

• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150 (2024 model)
• Daiwa Tatula BF70 BF
• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 70
• Daiwa Tatula Elite

Additionally, for my swimbait rod, I’m looking at:

• Shimano Tranx 300
• Daiwa Tatula 300
• Daiwa Lexa 300/300HD

I’m also interested in upgrading my Lew’s TP2 spinning setup and am considering either the Daiwa Tatula MQ LT spinning reel (what size would be best for bass fishing?) or the Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT spinning reel.

 

____________________________________________________________________________

 

It would be greatly appreciated if anyone could offer some suggestions on:

• Techniques or applications for each rod
• Which reel would be best at minimizing backlashes for each rod
• Gear ratio and line recommendations for each reel

I’m also looking for a crankbait rod in the $150 to $250 range. While I’ve been leaning towards EVA handles for now, I’d be open to a touch of cork, like that found in the St. Croix Black Bass series.

Finally, if you see any gaps in my lineup that could be filled with rods and reels in those same price ranges, I’d love to hear your suggestions, along with your gear ratio and line recommendations.

My main priority right now is minimizing backlashes as I continue to build my confidence. Once I’ve gained more casting experience, I may move up to higher-end gear in the $300 to $500 range in the next few years and possibly eventually transition over to mostly Shimano reels. My understanding is that they're hard to beat in the higher tiers.

Here’s a quick breakdown of my current rods:

• Rod 1: 6’8”  Mf  Lew’s TP2 Spinning Rod (6-12 lb. line & 1/8 to 1/2 oz. lures)
• Rod 2: 7’5”  MHf  Megabass Levante Braillist Casting Rod (8-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1 oz. lures)
• Rod 3: 7’2”  MHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (10-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1-1/4 oz. lures)
• Rod 4: 7’8”  XHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (40-80 lb. braid & 1/2 to 4 oz. lures)
• Rod 5: Your suggested crankbait rod (and reel)

Thank you so much in advance. I really appreciate any help you can offer. Your insights and guidance mean a lot as I navigate this journey.

[AlabamaSpothunter]

Daiwa Zillion SV TW is the easy button.......right in your price range.   

 

I'd get the Tat 300 for big swimbaits.   

 

An Alpha Angler Rebound or Chatterbound paired with a Zillion SV TW would be sublime for just about any moving bait.    The Rebound is a little better cranking rod, and the Chatterbound is better at chatterbaits, but both are exceptional for crankbaits.

[GreenPig]

On the swimbait reels, my Tatula 300 has much better cast control than my Tranx 400. No experience with the Lexa.

[PBBrandon]

Daiwa Zillion SV from Japan, slam dunk pick. Might be the best bait caster on the market overall, it’s every bit as good as my Steez SV

 

Not too familiar with swimbait reels, I only throw sub 4oz swimbaits so I get by with a Curado 200k

 

for spinning reels the Stradic is probably the best for the money. I think the Tatula MQ LT is a good reel, but I prefer the previous model. Best bet might be a Vanford or Stradic from Japan.

 

 

For a cranking rod I normally would recommend a Dobyns 705cb or a St Croix Victory/LTB 7’2” MHM graphite rod (personally not a fan of glass rods). But being that you don’t like cork, I’d go with a Zodias or a Tatula Elite. Or if you like your Levante, you could get a Flatside Special

 

also Daiwa and Shimano are both top notch. I can’t say one is better than the other and it’s really personal preference. If you put a lot of firepower in your casts, a Shimano will probably outcast a Daiwa. However, for accuracy, short casts, and overall backlash control, Daiwa reels are in a league of their own. Both are top end machines. 

 

[EarnestDignity]

Thank you very much for your recommendations. I'm very grateful for your time and insights.

 

I wanted to edit my post but there isn't an edit button nor an edit option anywhere on this page. Contol+F couldn't find the word "Edit" on the page  either. 

 

I just wanted to clarify that the reels I listed are just reels I had seriously looked at and that I have no idea if they actually backlash less than any other options in the price range... which is my primary concern and goal.

 

 

[PBBrandon]

9 minutes ago, EarnestDignity said:

Thank you very much for your recommendations. I'm very grateful for your time and insights.

 

I wanted to edit my post but there isn't an edit button nor an edit option anywhere on this page. Contol+F couldn't find the word "Edit" on the page  either. 

 

I just wanted to clarify that the reels I listed are just reels I had seriously looked at and that I have no idea if they actually backlash less than any other options in the price range... which is my primary concern and goal.

 

 

The most backlash resistant reels on the market are Daiwa reels with SV spools. Shimano DC reels do help a lot with backlash as well but they aren’t really worth the cost IMO.

 

The Zillion is a pretty tame reel but the Tatula and Alphas SV reels are even more backlash resistant if you want maximum backlash control. They just aren’t as good of reels as the Zillion. The Alphas is pretty close though in terms of quality

[Sota]

AFL has the Black Friday sale going on. Mega Bass Orochi rods are 100 bucks off. That’s a good deal in my book.  
 I am liking the specs on Daiwa CT reels. For 150 I think it is a good deal. You mentioned that you want a higher end reel. You might want to look into Daiwa SV series. 

[softwateronly]

I have a tat 300 on my swimbait rod that's good up to 8oz, and a zillion hd and tat 200 on my other swimbait rods rated up to 4oz.  Very happy with all of them.  I prefer having the smaller, lighter reels when not tossing the heaviest of stuff and the zillion hd is a dream.

 

scott

[EarnestDignity]

3 hours ago, PBBrandon said:

The most backlash resistant reels on the market are Daiwa reels with SV spools. Shimano DC reels do help a lot with backlash as well but they aren’t really worth the cost IMO.

 

The Zillion is a pretty tame reel but the Tatula and Alphas SV reels are even more backlash resistant if you want maximum backlash control. They just aren’t as good of reels as the Zillion. The Alphas is pretty close though in terms of quality

 

2 hours ago, Sota said:

AFL has the Black Friday sale going on. Mega Bass Orochi rods are 100 bucks off. That’s a good deal in my book.  
 I am liking the specs on Daiwa CT reels. For 150 I think it is a good deal. You mentioned that you want a higher end reel. You might want to look into Daiwa SV series. 

 

My primary goal right now is to minimize backlashes as I gain more experience with baitcasting reels. The last thing I want is to get stressed out over backlashes. I want my bass fishing journey to be primarily relaxing.

 

Eventually, I may upgrade to a higher-end reel like a Zillion or something similar, but for now, I’m looking for something that’ll help me build confidence and ease me into baitcasting.

 

I’m currently deciding between the Tatula SV and the Alphas SV, and I’m hoping to get some opinions on which reel is the better option in terms of backlash resistance. Is one reel better, worse, or about the same when it comes to preventing backlashes?

 

Additionally, I’d really appreciate any advice on pairing these reels with the rods I’ve listed above, as well as which gear ratios and line would be best for each setup, in your opinion. 

 

I know that opinions will differ but I’m still learning the ropes of baitcasting, so any insights or recommendations would be super helpful!

 

Would these SV reels be insufficient for rod #4, the XHmf, 1 to 4oz lure weight rod?

 

Thank you kindly in advance for your input!

 

 

 

 

 

 

[PBBrandon]

Alphas SV > Tatula SV. Both are the same in terms of backlash control but the Alphas is a higher quality reel. Both are great but the Alphas is built a little better. 
 

Rod 1: 2500 size Vanford (finesse)

Rod 2: 8:1 speed Alphas SV (bottom contact)

Rod 3: 7:1 speed Alphas SV (moving baits)

Rod 4: 6:1 speed Tatula 300 (swimbaits)

Rod 5: 6:1 speed Tatula SV (crankbaits)

 

The Alphas only comes in a 7 and 8 speed so if you want a slower ratio for cranks, a Tatula would be your best bet. Also neither reel is built for baits that heavy. So they wouldn’t handle 2+oz baits very well. I would consider maybe the Tatula 150 SV if you are mostly just throwing A-Rigs and small swimbaits. 
 

Really with baits that large, aggressive brakes and an SV spool aren’t gonna do too much as there is so much force pulling line off of the spool. As long as you maintain good casting mechanics with swimbait rods, and have correct spool tension, you shouldn’t backlash with a swimbait.

[EarnestDignity]

11 hours ago, PBBrandon said:

Alphas SV > Tatula SV. Both are the same in terms of backlash control but the Alphas is a higher quality reel. Both are great but the Alphas is built a little better. 
 

 

Rod 1: 2500 size Vanford (finesse)

Rod 2: 8:1 speed Alphas SV (bottom contact)

Rod 3: 7:1 speed Alphas SV (moving baits)

Rod 4: 6:1 speed Tatula 300 (swimbaits)

Rod 5: 6:1 speed Tatula SV (crankbaits)

 

Thank You for the feedback! That is exactly the kind of feedback I was hoping for from fellow forum members. I'm incredibly grateful for your time and for sharing your valuable insights with us.

 

I wanted to let you all know that I'll be throwing up to 4 oz. swimbaits with Rod 4, the XHmf.

 

Looking forward to hearing more thoughts and experiences from everyone!

[EarnestDignity]

19 hours ago, AlabamaSpothunter said:

The Rebound is a little better cranking rod, and the Chatterbound is better at chatterbaits, but both are exceptional for crankbaits.

Thank you all for your time and recommendations.

 

I'm wondering... if you wanted one cranking rod for both, would it be the Chatterbound despite it being extra fast for single hooks? Would it be the Rebound? Or do you feel I really do need to have both rods?

[AlabamaSpothunter]

9 minutes ago, EarnestDignity said:

Thank you all for your time and recommendations.

 

I'm wondering... if you wanted one cranking rod for both, would it be the Chatterbound despite it being extra fast for single hooks? Would it be the Rebound? Or do you feel I really do need to have both rods?

The Chatterbound works amazing for normal sized cranks, but if you want to cover the full range on cranks to include small ones like 1/4oz models, the dedicated cranking rod like the Rebound is the way to go.    If it's a moving bait, and it weighs between 3/8oz-1oz.......I've never had a problem using the Chatterbound, but it just doesn't have the action to launch little crankbaits.   

 

I wouldn't use the Rebound for bladed jigs because I feel bladed jigs really do require a technique specific rod.    I can get away with using non cranking rods on cranks because line type, understanding drag, and using upgraded treble hooks really mitigates the need to have a perfect cranking rod.   

 

Since you didn't mention anything about bladed jigs, I'd just go with the Rebound.   

 

 

 

 

[EarnestDignity]

20 hours ago, AlabamaSpothunter said:

The Rebound is a little better cranking rod, and the Chatterbound is better at chatterbaits, but both are exceptional for crankbaits.

Afterthought: Would Rod 2 work well for chatterbaits?

 

*I wanted to edit my post above this one but still no edit button anywhere on the page... thanks~

[EarnestDignity]

55 minutes ago, AlabamaSpothunter said:

The Chatterbound works amazing for normal sized cranks, but if you want to cover the full range on cranks to include small ones like 1/4oz models, the dedicated cranking rod like the Rebound is the way to go.    If it's a moving bait, and it weighs between 3/8oz-1oz.......I've never had a problem using the Chatterbound, but it just doesn't have the action to launch little crankbaits.   

 

I wouldn't use the Rebound for bladed jigs because I feel bladed jigs really do require a technique specific rod.    I can get away with using non cranking rods on cranks because line type, understanding drag, and using upgraded treble hooks really mitigates the need to have a perfect cranking rod.   

 

Since you didn't mention anything about bladed jigs, I'd just go with the Rebound.   

 

 

 

 

Would Rod 1, Mf spinning, work well for small crankbaits like 1/4 oz. models, or should I really be using baitcasting gear for crankbaits... even small/light ones? Thanks.

 

Just let me say that I have not discarded any of the crankbait rod nor any of the backlash-resistant reel recommendations above. I won't be making my decisions until we've heard from more of our members.

[Dwight Hottle]

18 hours ago, EarnestDignity said:

Thank you very much for your recommendations. I'm very grateful for your time and insights.

 

I wanted to edit my post but there isn't an edit button nor an edit option anywhere on this page. Contol+F couldn't find the word "Edit" on the page  either. 

 

I just wanted to clarify that the reels I listed are just reels I had seriously looked at and that I have no idea if they actually backlash less than any other options in the price range... which is my primary concern and goal.

 

 

 

@EarnestDignity  See the three dots in the upper right hand of your posting frame? Click on those & there is an edit choice to correct or modify your post.

[SkippinJimmy]

22 hours ago, EarnestDignity said:

My main priority right now is minimizing backlashes as I continue to build my confidence. Once I’ve gained more casting experience, I may move up to higher-end gear in the $300 to $500 range in the next few years and possibly eventually transition over to mostly Shimano reels. My understanding is that they're hard to beat in the higher tiers.

No need to move up to the highest end reels unless you just want to try the more expensive stuff.  Around 50% of the baitcasters I use regularly are Steez and while I love them, I love my Zillions just as much.  Nothing wrong with Tatula’s either.  Set up properly, backlashes will be minimal.

 

Diawa & Shimano make excellent reels but I personally choose Diawa for baitcasters and Shimano for spinning, though I wouldn’t argue with anyone who chooses differently.

 

As far as rods, I’m in agreement with @AlabamaSpothunter.  I’m a big fan of Alpha Angler rods for moving applications.

[EarnestDignity]

15 hours ago, softwateronly said:

I have a tat 300 on my swimbait rod that's good up to 8oz, and a zillion hd and tat 200 on my other swimbait rods rated up to 4oz.  Very happy with all of them.  I prefer having the smaller, lighter reels when not tossing the heaviest of stuff and the zillion hd is a dream.

 

scott

Hi Scott and everyone,

Thank you for all the great insights shared so far. I’d love to hear your thoughts on how you’d pair your recommended reels with the rods in my lineup. Specifically:

• Which reels would you match with which rods?
• What gear ratio would you choose for each setup?

Looking forward to your recommendations and feedback. Thanks in advance!

 

2 minutes ago, Dwight Hottle said:

 

@EarnestDignity  See the three dots in the upper right hand of your posting frame? Click on those & there is an edit choice to correct or modify your post.

Thank you, sir!

My only options there are "Report" and "Share"... no edit option.

[Dwight Hottle]

@EarnestDignity I guess your limited to not edit because your a new member with a low post count. Ask one of the mods for clarification. 

[EarnestDignity]

1 minute ago, Dwight Hottle said:

@EarnestDignity I guess your limited to not edit because your a new member with a low post count. Ask one of the mods for clarification. 

ahhhh [warm smile] Thank you, sir~

[AlabamaSpothunter]

45 minutes ago, EarnestDignity said:

Would Rod 1, Mf spinning, work well for small crankbaits like 1/4 oz. models, or should I really be using baitcasting gear for crankbaits... even small/light ones? Thanks.

 

Just let me say that I have not discarded any of the crankbait rod nor any of the backlash-resistant reel recommendations above. I won't be making my decisions until we've heard from more of our members.

Nothing wrong at all with throwing the smaller cranks on that setup.    For whatever reason I just prefer to throw cranks on a baitcaster.    

 

 

[SkippinJimmy]

It’s easy to get hung up on the little things in fishing and go broke buying stuff that has a negligible if any impact on catching fish.
 

With 4 (soon to be 5) setups including baitcasting and spinning, I believe you should still be focused on versatility in your setups. The AA Rebound is a very versatile rod that you can use with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, chatterbaits, swim jigs, traps, etc.  Is the ChatterBound better for a few of those…probably but that doesn’t mean the Rebound doesn’t work very well.  I have several of both and will tie on any of those baits on either rod.

 

As far as gear ratio, anything in the 6’s or low 7’s will work fine.  My advice is to not overthink things.  A Rebound with a Tatula SV reel would be a killer moving bait setup without breaking the bank.

[softwateronly]

1 hour ago, EarnestDignity said:

Hi Scott and everyone,

Thank you for all the great insights shared so far. I’d love to hear your thoughts on how you’d pair your recommended reels with the rods in my lineup. Specifically:

• Which reels would you match with which rods?
• What gear ratio would you choose for each setup?

Looking forward to your recommendations and feedback. Thanks in advance!

 

Thank you, sir!

My only options there are "Report" and "Share"... no edit option.

This is difficult my friend, all these are personal choices.  Here's how it would play out for me, but I'm guessing because I've never held most of what you have.  I also fish braid to leader as a preference that many dislike.

 

• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150 (2024 model)
• Daiwa Tatula BF70 BF
• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 70
• Daiwa Tatula Elite

 

• Rod 1: 6’8”  Mf  Lew’s TP2 Spinning Rod (6-12 lb. line & 1/8 to 1/2 oz. lures)
• Shimano Vanford, but I haven't thrown spinning gear in 2+ years. 15lb braid to 8lb sniper.  Finesse plastics, free rig, wacky, weightless, jig n minnow, etc
• Rod 2: 7’5”  MHf  Megabass Levante Braillist Casting Rod (8-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1 oz. lures)
• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150 (2024 model) 30lb braid to 16lb sniper.  This would be my main worm/jig rod and also throw texas rigged swimbaits in the 4-6" range
• Rod 3: 7’2”  MHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (10-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1-1/4 oz. lures)
• Daiwa Tatula Elite 30lb braid to 12 or 16lb sniper.  Spinnerbaits, swim jigs, open hook swimbaits, scroungers, etc.  Moving single hook applications primarily.  Probably a decent trap/spook rod too, if so I'd move to mono leader for topwater.  Should be good for most bigger mid depth cranks or squarebills. 
• Rod 4: 7’8”  XHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (40-80 lb. braid & 1/2 to 4 oz. lures)
• Money not an issue; JDM Zillion HD, cheaper tatula 200.  65lb braid to 25lb floro/mono.  All treble hook 5-8" swimbaits or open hook swimbaits and large flutter spoons, probably staying under 3oz.  Could also crank your 20+ divers, though the 65lb braid isn't ideal diameter so expect less depth.
• Rod 5: Your suggested crankbait rod (and reel)  I'd go 6'10 ish M/RF or M/F (1/8-3/4oz) here for finesse plastics, shakey head, jerk baits, small spoons, topwater, squarebills, flukes, etc and pair it with the Daiwa Tatula BF70 BF, PE 1.5 to 10lb sniper

And all of it is subject to change once I fished it.  I'd then have the tat 70 in the wings for another M or MH RF/MF that compliments or slots in around the gaps of the MH combat stick and the not yet determined rod.

 

scott

[WRB]

No bait casting reel is backlash proof.

You the operator prevents the spool from over running with proper rod and casting mechanics. The reel can only help to control the spool speed during the cast.

My suggestion is start with one brand and learn to cast with this reel.

IMO Shimano SLX A 70 (2024 model) with MGL spool is a good choice for everything you listed in bait casting except big swimbaits.

Casting rods all around St Croix Victory VTC68MXF 6’8” medium crankbaits, top water, jerk baits.

VTC72MH mod fast7’2” crank baits.

VTC73MHF 7’3” fast bottom contact lures, swim jigs, etc.

Spinning Shimano Vanford 2500

Rod Victory VTS68XMF 6’8” general finesse.

Swimbait

Shimano Cardiff 300A , Irod IQ783SB 7’8”.

Line  Berkley Big Game 10 lb  top water and crank baits bottom contact. 15 lb Swimbit. Sunline Sniper 12lb casting, 8 lb spinning.

I have been using both Daiwa and Shimano reels for decades, both are excellent. Shimano is easier to adjust for trouble free use. 

Tom

PS, Daiwa Tatula rods with = specs.

[EarnestDignity]

17 hours ago, softwateronly said:

Rod 1: 6’8”  Mf  Lew’s TP2 Spinning Rod (6-12 lb. line & 1/8 to 1/2 oz. lures)

• Shimano Vanford, but I haven't thrown spinning gear in 2+ years. 15lb braid to 8lb sniper.  Finesse plastics, free rig, wacky, weightless, jig n minnow, etc
• Rod 2: 7’5”  MHf  Megabass Levante Braillist Casting Rod (8-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1 oz. lures)
• Daiwa Tatula SV TW 150 (2024 model) 30lb braid to 16lb sniper.  This would be my main worm/jig rod and also throw texas rigged swimbaits in the 4-6" range
• Rod 3: 7’2”  MHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (10-20 lb. line & 3/8 to 1-1/4 oz. lures)
• Daiwa Tatula Elite 30lb braid to 12 or 16lb sniper.  Spinnerbaits, swim jigs, open hook swimbaits, scroungers, etc.  Moving single hook applications primarily.  Probably a decent trap/spook rod too, if so I'd move to mono leader for topwater.  Should be good for most bigger mid depth cranks or squarebills. 
• Rod 4: 7’8”  XHmf  Evergreen Combat Stick Casting Rod (40-80 lb. braid & 1/2 to 4 oz. lures)
• Money not an issue; JDM Zillion HD, cheaper tatula 200.  65lb braid to 25lb floro/mono.  All treble hook 5-8" swimbaits or open hook swimbaits and large flutter spoons, probably staying under 3oz.  Could also crank your 20+ divers, though the 65lb braid isn't ideal diameter so expect less depth.
• Rod 5: Your suggested crankbait rod (and reel)  I'd go 6'10 ish M/RF or M/F (1/8-3/4oz) here for finesse plastics, shakey head, jerk baits, small spoons, topwater, squarebills, flukes, etc and pair it with the Daiwa Tatula BF70 BF, PE 1.5 to 10lb sniper

And all of it is subject to change once I fished it.  I'd then have the tat 70 in the wings for another M or MH RF/MF that compliments or slots in around the gaps of the MH combat stick and the not yet determined rod.

 

scott

Thank you, Scott, for thoroughly addressing all of the questions in the original post.