What Reel?

[Zmuda5]

I know this has probably been talked about 100 times on this board.

But I'm 15 and I just had by birthday. So I have some extra cash from it. I already bought a nice rod from basspro. A Pete Mania signature series rod that is 8'6" extra heavy. I already have a gander mountain reel but I dont think it can handle a magnum dawg or anything like that.

So the question is what reel should I buy to go along with this. Again Im only 15 so I dont have enough for a Diawa Luna or anything nice like that. I would be looking to spend around $100 but may be able to get $20 from my parents.

Please let me know.

Thanks,
Tom Zmuda

[Nick Kanauz]

Z-
For the money you have and can get from M&D, you might want to try for another thirty dollars and get an Abbu Garcia Record...was 149 bucks from Cabelas. It has everything the Shimano Calcutta has...IE: same number of bearing, gearing, roller bearings etc. I got one for our anniversary a year ago and put it on a Shimano Compre Muskie rod, and have been very happy with it. Don't know how it holds up for 150 days of fishing each year, but I think I remember Ty saying he had one but not used it much. Mine casts great, takes in line like crazy, and allows for good hook ups when you get a hit. So, for half the price of a Calcutta, you can get a top notch reel. For less money, but sound reels, the Garcia 6500's would be in your ball park and service you well too. Hope this helps...any thoughts from the rest of you?
Tracker

[Ty Sennett]

The Pflueger reel is a really nice one for around $90.00. I would get that one. I actually like that one better than most of the reels out there. You wont be disappointed.

[Ryan M]

I would second the pflueger. I also have been hearing good things about the Okuma Induron for $130 and being a durable reel.

I would stay away from Abu's. Just my opinion.

[Zmuda5]

The Pflueger reel is a really nice one for around $90.00. I would get that one. I actually like that one better than most of the reels out there. You wont be disappointed.

Ty what reel is it? I cant seem to find any musky reels that they make.

Is it by chance this one?
http://www.cabelas.com/prod-1/0011736116477a.shtml

[Snizz]

ya...that's the one

[Ty Sennett]

The line guide on the 66 model goes back and forth on the cast. On the 56 model it doesn't. That means less distance and more line wear on the 56 model. I use both.

[Noonan]

Get The Abu Garcia 5500 c3 best reel for best price about $75-$85

[Ty Sennett]

You'll find that the more money you spend the smoother the reel gets. The Pflueger is the exception to that rule. I feel it is comparable to most $200.00 reels if you switch the cranking handle on it.

[andracke]

Ty - What kind of handle do you have on that reel and where did you pick it up at?

A little over 60 days and we will both have slimy snakes bouncing around the boat -

Thanks!

[Ty Sennett]

I bought a Calcutta B handle from Thorne Brothers. That handle does not fit the Pflueger though. You have to use a Dremmel tool to open up the gap a little. I'm not sure what handle fits the Pflueger regularly. If you do get one I can make it work for you if you don't have a Dremmel tool.

[andracke]

I may take you up on that - I will look into ordering one - Will you be around over Easter Weekend? I have some work to do on a cabin remodel.

Thanks!

[Ty Sennett]

Not sure about that. We can take care of it over pike weekend.