Line counter reels Need input

I'm currently running Shakespeare ATS and Okuma Magda 15 line counter reels. While both reels are very functional for the price, I'm finding the line getting behind the spool to be too much of a hassle. I've tried to tighten up the spool tension and filling the spool with less line. I've gotten to where I have to carry a few extra spooled reels to replace the ones that are tangled up, both with clients and in tournaments. My reels probable see more time on the water than 95% of the folks here. I'm looking to change in the off season.

I looked at the HH counter reels at Grenada but I really don't like the electronic digital counter. I'm now looking to go to a higher price range. The Diawa ADP17LCB is very interesting. I'm needing advice from those who run the better/higher priced line counter reels. The lower profile line counters might be an option also.

I looked at the Okuma line and was going to apply for their pro staff but missed the cut-off date.

I've got a couple of Diawa Accudepth 27's and they seem to be pretty well built. I bought them used from someone on here. I haven't used them enough to give you an objective review, but they are definitely better reels than my Okuma line counters. After using one of Slabprowlers Shakespeares at Crankfest, I prefer the Shake's over the Okumas. Mine just don't cast well at all. They don't freespool too well either. I had to "hand line" a couple of them to get the baits out. I've only had them for a little over a year and have only used them at 2 crankfests, so it isn't like they're worn out. Truthfully though I haven't had any line get behind a spool on mine. I use 30# Kastking braid. It's not a real thin braid.

I have a couple of the Diana 17’s and more than happy with them. For as much as you use yours think you would be money ahead to temp up to a higher priced reel.

I have cabelas, used for a year with no issues . Not once behind spool .

I have 12 total of the Shakespeare ATS 15 line counter reels. Bought in 2016 and been fished with quite a bit, never once have I had a problem with line getting behind the spool on any of them. I use 40# power pro hi-vis braid, calibrate my reels and can cast with each one of them. Just curious if this may be a line issue, over spooling or a more recent defect in the newer ATS line of reels. Anyways, have heard good things with the Diawa reels, if my ATS reels ever let me down I would look in that direction. So far no troubles and the price can't be beat.

I use Trilene Big Game 12 pound line on all my line counter reels. It's a pretty large diameter line.

Too much line on the spool will cause that problem. I had to back off on my my fill on the Magda 15. Throws accuracy off some, but with a lot of line out, depth isn’t affected much according to me trig calculator.


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What do you mean line behind the spool? A birds nest from stripping line out to fast and not controlling it with your thumb?

There is a small gap between the spool and the reel frame. If too much line on spool, then the line will get int the space between the top end of spool and the frame. Slack in the line will allow the line to get behind the spool.


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Have had the same problem a couple times with mine this year ,but caught it early and it didn’t cause much of a problem .i use the same line as you and the same reel And it’s not from wear because mine hast been used that much.you might could check with Leslie and some of those guys that walleye fish to see what they are using and what kinda results they getting! Good luck on your search and let us know what you find out!

Power pro depth hunter calibrated line let's you use any reel.

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Originally Posted by Gomer Snerd

Power pro depth hunter calibrated line let's you use any reel.

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You are correct. Now, hand that outfit to a client who barely knows which end of the rod and reel points toward the water and let them count the color changes for depth. As I've said many times, I set up all my gear with my clients in mind and try to keep it simple. Sure, I often have clients who are probably better fishermen than me in their own right but the vast majority aren't.

The best line counters I have found are Shimanos. They are a little pricey, but are worth the cost to me.

I have Diawa 27's, the Sealines. They have always worked well. The 17's would probably be a better fit for crappie fishing. Recommended.
I am sure that some of my reels are 20 yrs old. :yikesstill work, and have caught their share of fish.

Doug I have purchased eight of those ats reels after using yours two year ago I personally use mine and constantly watch them and still have lines get tangled behind the spool, the spool has to be full to calibrate properly I have calibrated each one of mine, I write this to say I understand us novice clients of yours, sorry no help on this end.

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Doug, I have 3 Okuma cold water low profile line counter reels that I really like, very pricy but easy to use. I don't put near as much time on them tha t you do but I think you might like them for your tourney fishing

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Originally Posted by M R Dux

You are correct. Now, hand that outfit to a client who barely knows which end of the rod and reel points toward the water and let them count the color changes for depth. As I've said many times, I set up all my gear with my clients in mind and try to keep it simple. Sure, I often have clients who are probably better fishermen than me in their own right but the vast majority aren't.

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As much as I respect you and your great contribution to the forum I must point out that the majority of fishermen are on non guided trips and maintain their own equipment. They may not see their way to invest 1000 in reels. 30 bucks in line can fill their needs. I see why you need the easiest means for the client. That said I only have it on a couple of my reels. Works ok.

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Hey Mr. Dux, I use the Daiwa Accudepth Plus 17 B for side pulling cranks. Since I don't
fish tournaments or fish strictly for crappie, they serve my purpose well. I also fish for
walleye on Lake Erie and Green Bay, but I upgraded to the Daiwa Sealine 17's and 27's.
You being a pro guide, I would suggest the Sealine as they will last longer and they can
be repaired and the drag system upgraded. Northwest Wholesale Outlet has the best
prices that I am aware of. You might also want to check into Okuma/Magda's Coldwater
series. When I fish for salmon, I use ONLY the Shimano Tekota reels in various sizes.
Hope this helps. I enjoy your posts!

Get yourself a spread of Tekota 600’s. :biggrin. Smoothest linecounter reel I’ve ever used. I’ve got 4 now. Two last year and two more this year. I use em walleye fishing.

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Originally Posted by chaunc

Get yourself a spread of Tekota 600’s. :biggrin. Smoothest linecounter reel I’ve ever used. I’ve got 4 now. Two last year and two more this year. I use em walleye fishing.

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I have a 300 in the Tekota and love it for crappie, smooth as glass.

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Originally Posted by Rees Guide

I have a 300 in the Tekota and love it for crappie, smooth as glass.

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I have my 27’s for sale now.

I've had Daiwa 17s for about 10 years and have never had that happen, even with the wife and 3 kids fishing. I have 6-10 braid on them all maybe that's the difference.

I got line behind the spools on the Okuma dx 15’s also, switched to the DX 20’s and have never had any line inside or under the spools again and quit using 20 lb slick yellow power pro down to 10 lb braid of the slick power pro and it’s even more smaller dia and never a problem in over 3 yrs now with using the DX 20’s. I bought my wife the shakespeare line counter reels, and they are not as smooth working as the okumas either but still a really good reel for a cheapie line counter. One other thing. Never had a DX 20 go bad on me either or wear out like the DX 15’s. They are holding up to my abuse and road hawling in a creek slick rod transport rack on the side of the boat also.