Soron vs Tierra

[trevor]

Talk to me after you charter a boat for 180 days a year like my dad.

They used to be awesome. Now they are not.

[J Francho]

My uncle ran "Big Al" salmon charter out of Port Bay for more than 20 years. Penns served him just fine.  Anyway, surfcasting isn't the same environment as a charter boat.  I service quite a few of these reels, and Penns are fine.  Cheapo reels from any brand don't last.

[=Matt 5.0=]

That 704 is older than the hills. She just had a facelift last year.

[trevor]

Maybe they were older Penns. Im told those were indestructible. Im saying there are many better reels than modern penns.

[=Matt 5.0=]

Maybe they were older Penns. Im told those were indestructible. Im saying there are many better reels than modern penns.

If you want a reel that you can abuse, use under water and not have to maintain, then save for a Van Stall. I personally don't feel comfortable spending $700+ on a chinese reel.

There is also ZeeBaas ($900+) and they are also being made in China now.

Penn is releasing a new surf reel this year that is made in the US.

You may also try a Saltiga or Stella. I prefer non bailed reels, nothing worse than seeing a $25 plug go sailing off into the horizon.

[trevor]

Its not a surf reel I am saving for, It is a inshore fishing reel. (like flounder and specs). I am not saying I would ever dunk it in water or abuse, I am just talkin about the abuse of saltwater fishing, even when properly maintained 

[=Matt 5.0=]

Daiwa coastal inshore. It's basically a Tierra with a waterproof drag.

I use a 4000 size Stradic, smooth as butter.

[SirSnookalot]

I own most of the inshore reels and imo the Quantum Cabo is the best in the $200 and under market, yes better than the Stradic 4000 which I own as well.  My everyday reel is the Soron 40, I love it.

One of my neighbors ( snowbird from New Jersey )is charter boat captain specializing in tuna, fishes nothing but Penn, says he wouldn't use anything else.