Crankbait reel Suggestions-I know here we go again

[huskertko]

I know this has been covered numerous times, but everytime I try to do a search my computer locks up so that is why I am asking again.

I am going to start throwing crankbaits more this summer and I plan on getting a BPS crankin stick, mainly for the price, and I was going to get a David Fritts crankin reel as well.  I know that there are a lot of people who use BPS rods and reels with no problems, but then there are a lot who have had numerous problems as well, so I have about $140 to spend on a reel that will be used strictly for crankbaits, most shallow and medium, but occasionally deep divers as well, so I was going to get a 5.2:1 ratio reel.  Any suggestions for "name brand" reels that fit the price range and the ratio guidelines?

I really don't have the ability to "spend a little more" to get a better reel, I have a shopping list a mile long that I am going to use for equipment and gear when the new BPS opens in a couple weeks, so the money I have is pretty well spoken for.

[roadwarrior]

There are two  left hand Curados for sale in the Flea Market for $110 each, delivered.

[huskertko]

yeah, I saw that but I am barely coordinated enough to use a left handed spinning reel when I need to, it is actually a very funny scene watching me use it left handed. :-[

[roadwarrior]

I'm "traditional," too. I wouldn't even consider a left hand baitcaster myself.

Anyhow, the Flea Market has great deals all of the time. If you are not in a hurry, I still think that is where you are going to get your best deal from another member. A great "gently used" would be a much better choice than buying something you don't really want.

[huskertko]

I am definitely keeping an eye on the flea market.  The problem is, I don't need it right now, but the water's to hard to fish right now, so the next best thing is spending $$$ on fishing stuff.

[KU_Bassmaster.]

CU-200B5 - "The Classic"

Good choice to with the 5:1 ratio.  You will be sooooooo happy you went with that.  Pair that with the BPS crankn' stick and I think that will put you right at your limit.  Some might disagree, but IMO this is one rod you don't have to spend a lot of money on.

[bassin_man]

I would agree with what has been said.

P.S. I thought I saw somewhere you were getting a part-time job at Bass Pro?  If that is true I would wait if possible and see what the discounts are every little bit helps.  I know that most rods have a nice mark-up on them.

[huskertko]

CU-200B5 - "The Classic"

Good choice to with the 5:1 ratio.  You will be sooooooo happy you went with that.  Pair that with the BPS crankn' stick and I think that will put you right at your limit.  Some might disagree, but IMO this is one rod you don't have to spend a lot of money on.

If I can find one on Ebay, that would be my first choice

[hi_steel_basser]

The CU200B5 is good for med-big cranks on my St Croix fiberglass, but this combo is WORTHLESS for anything less than 3/8 oz or shallow divers/topwaters. The rod lacks the sensitivty, and the combo doesn't cast well with lighter weights. Maybe it's just me, but I would say to consider what kind of cranking you will be doing the most before you decide what kind of rod/reel you will use.

[huskertko]

I would agree with what has been said.

P.S. I thought I saw somewhere you were getting a part-time job at Bass Pro?  If that is true I would wait if possible and see what the discounts are every little bit helps.  I know that most rods have a nice mark-up on them.

Unfortunately, due to my full time job and my wife's schedules, I was not able to keep that job.  Not to mention my son was not taking me not being home at night very well.  He kept asking his mom when daddy would be home and making comments like, daddy is never home anymore.  That in and of itself was   enough to make me reconsider working a 2nd job, money is not so important that I was willing to miss out on time with my kids.

[bassdocktor]

Hey if you can find the Quantum Energy 650PT its a very nice choice. You can find a used one all the time on Ebay for usually under 100 and when you do find a new one it seems to still be at the original price of like 160 which seems steep for a reel they don't make anymore. I've been using it for the last year or so and haven't been disappointed.

bassdocktor

[KU_Bassmaster.]

Another option would be a Citica 200 DPV.  I think you can find them on ebay for around $105-$115 shipped.  I know that's going slightly over budget, but don't we always. :