Reel Preference

[MNCrapps]

Sounds pretty unanimous. Thanks everyone for the advice.

[Crestliner08]

I have to disagree here. I use to be an avid Shimano fan for many years. I have plenty of them rigged on various rods for various purposes. However, Shimano has increased their pricing across the board by at least $20.00 on each of their models.

So, I started looking elsewhere, for a reel that might prove to be just as reliable as my Symetres and Saharas. On a friend's recommendation, I tried the Pflueger President. Loved it. Bought another. And just bought my 3rd. last week. Have used this President model for 3 seasons now and I will not go back to Shimano ever again.

As far as the drag goes, I have to disagree, once again, with the concept that a rear drag has any kind of advantage over the front drag systems. There are many more parts are involved in any rear drag system. That's just a fact. And the actual drag system is far away from where the action is - in the spool of line. I've had quite a few problems with rear drag reels over many, many years of fishing, so now I stay with the front drag system reels.

Don't get me wrong, I think Shimano makes a great reel. I have had problems with the spool's "friction rings" on two occasions however. Just another tipping point for me to switch. I'm no expert in reel design, but for my money, the President gives you the best bang for the buck.

[huntinslabs]

I agree with you Crestliner on most points. I also seek other alternatives than Shimano except for the IX series for longlining and they have not changed pricing on this model in the 8 or so years I have watched them and recommended them. The advantage of rear drag for longlining vs front drag is when hung and dealing with another rod it is very easy to reach over and spin the drag way down to keep from breaking a rod or pulling out of rod holder. For all other fishing needs a front drag is far superior. But he mentioned longlining and I stand that it is hard to beat the IX series for that purpose.

[whackmaster]

Pflueger President series far and away the best reel for my money.

[jigfisherx]

I love shimano reels but changed my rigging rods over to used level winds. The are easier in and out of the holders and if you crank down the free spool you can just reach down and hit the button when you get in a tree in the wind.

[SIcrappie]

I have several of the pflueger presidents in the 6920 size and two in the 6925. I think the drag on the 20 series is more consistent at the lighter settings. I like both but from now on I will only purchase more of the 20 size. I think for the money you just can't get a better more dependable reel. Plus the spool is braid ready with the rubber grippers built in.

[MNCrapps]

Well, I bought a Shimano IX1000 based on the recommendations on this thread. I hate to say it, but I really don't like the reel. I find it to be too big and heavy for a light action reel. For those that like the Flueger President, what do you consider a good price and where do you get the best deal?

[wannabe fisherman]

Presidents run $50 for the small one and $60 for the larger ones, anything you can find less than that is a good deal. One other thing to watch for, there's also a president supreme and it cost more, not sure how much, but it is more.

[Crestliner08]

The President model 6920 is pretty consistent at $49.50. The 6925 is ten bucks more. The difference being line capacity and a weight. I like the 6920 myself, as I use braid for the main line, so the extra capacity is unimportant to me.

[kycreek]

Another vote for the President reels.