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What do you guys use? What size? Cheap? Guess I'm asking what is a good sized cheap reel that gets the job done. Is there a cadilac reel for this? I would not think so being they are in a rod holder. I don't know for sure and is why I am asking. Any recommendations? Thanks for any info.CF
I've got a bunch of walmart brand reels they clearanced out on some cheap rods. They are smooth reels the drags arent the greatest but they do the job. Most of the lower end stuff comes from the same place in korea. You get a big enough order you can have a line of crappiefarmer signature series reels.
I use the Diawa Sweepfire 1500 with the spool drag and the rear assist drag. I use them tightlining and dragging. They aren't the cheapest or the most expensive. I haven't had any problems with them. My philosophy is buy good to really good stuff and it will last you if you take care of it.
Cheap Shakespeares. 20 size, you get less line problems than with a 10.
I have several different types some Diawa's 1500, couple old shakespeares, the folk @ grizzly put me on a High Tec spinning reel this year and I like it most of all front drag smooth and looks high price but it was only @ $15/reel. To me the drags the key if its smooth the rest will be too.
I have some of the diawa sweepfire's. They are good reels but I've got hooked on the shimano ix reels. There like 13 bucks a piece. I use the 2000 series just so I can get the line capacity because I use mine to pull crankbaits with as well as tightline and longline. They also have a rear drag system.
I use small reels with at least a bearing or three. Most are Shakespeare Dimensions they do the job and not heavy.
Okuma avengers. Watch the online retailers, got 4 this year for around $20 each. Have several others 1 and 2 years old, not the first issue. Had a 5 lb striper lite one last year pretty good. But it has held up too.
I have a mix of cheap reels but out of what I have I like the Quantum Optix 10 the best. Instant anti reverse and smooth drag. I also look for a reel that has a large inner diameter spool. The reels with the small inner diameter spool (what the fishing line wraps around) seems to give line alot more memory so I stay away from those.
I've slowly switched all my trolling rods to baitcasters. Much better performance then most spinning reels. Plus they are easier to get out of the rod holder and counting how much line u put out is easier also. You can get brand new knockoff reels on ebay for less than $20. They work fine for crappie fishing.