What's your opinion on this reel

[Bankbeater]

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_10200550_100001001_100000000_100001000_100-1-1

A reel made just for flippin and pitchin? What do you think?

[Bass Dude]

I think it's too technique specific.  I use my flipping rod a lot for tossing frogs, so I would much prefer a reel I could cast with also.  But if that's all you're going to use it for, I think it would serve that purpose well.

[KYntucky Warmouth]

I wouldn't buy it but I don't do alot of flipping...My flipping stick is also used for frogs and small swimbaits which I need to cast so for me, if I wanted a reel for flipping and casting, I would go with a flipping switch...even though I don't have one.

[jack1]

I heard it is a poorly built reel.

[Muddy]

Wait until you get a review that starts I USED THSIS REEL, instead of I heard or I think. Experienced reviews are the ones that count,

[J Francho]

The F500 Flip-N-Pitch's Perma-lock Drag System is factory-set at 28 pounds

impressive max resistance number, but a total deal breaker, since its not adjustable.

[MarauderYak]

I think not having an adjustable drag is fine for what this reel is intended for.  But at 28 lbs, if you set the hook on a stump, you're risking your rod.

I know someone who has one of these.  I'll see if I can't give it a try soon.

[Tuckman]

I heard that Denny Brauer is gonna fish these Ardent reels this year...that would really surprise me because he's been with Team Diawa so long now

[MarauderYak]

Brauer did switch to Ardent recently.  There were 4 guys in the Bassmaster Classic fishing Ardent reels.  That's pretty suprising to me.

[Bassaholic84]

There made in the USA other than that i have no experience with ardents

[Jimzee]

Wait until you get a review that starts I USED THSIS REEL, instead of I heard or I think. Experienced reviews are the ones that count,

yep, I agree

[rayrock99]

I wouldnt buy it just because it a butt ugly reel!!!!!!!

[Jason Schwartz]

it is ugly lol

[flechero]

The F500 Flip-N-Pitch's Perma-lock Drag System is factory-set at 28 pounds

impressive max resistance number, but a total deal breaker, since its not adjustable.

If that's true, don't buy this reel unless you have a 100% free lifetime replacement warranty on your rod.   :-X

[Big Tom]

No kidding.  I wonder why they chose such a ridiculous number?

In general, I have heard a few unfavorable things about Ardent.  I will never own one as I cannot stand how they look.

[bass wrangler569]

No kidding. I wonder why they chose such a ridiculous number?

In general, I have heard a few unfavorable things about Ardent. I will never own one as I cannot stand how they look.

X2, I consider myself to be one of those people who believes reels are tools and I would rather have function than good looks, however, I do have a breaking point. Ardent reels are just plain ugly!!!

[flipinstick88]

Brauer did switch to Ardent recently. There were 4 guys in the Bassmaster Classic fishing Ardent reels. That's pretty suprising to me.

I don't know why you would be suprised. I own 2 xs reels and imho they are fantastic. They are solidly built, and perform better than any reel I have ever thrown, and I used to use Shimanos. I don't understand where all the negitive feedback is coming from. :-?

[hawgchaser]

28lbs of drag is a horrible feature if it can't be adjusted! Why would anyone think that is a good idea? I find it hard to believe that its not adjustable but there doesn't appear to be the standard drag control on the reel.