Lowpro vs Round

[MuskieFever]

Lets hear the pros and cons of lowpro reels vs round reels. I currently only own round musky reels and I like them. Any thoughts on more or less durability between the two? Any experience with the Revo NaCl, Calcutta D, or Saltist 20? I'm open to any other recommendations as well. I currently own a C4 6600 and a Avid AC300, I'd like to add another reel so I can have 3 rods for 3 different presentations.

[RuKiddingMe]

I added low-pro reels over the last couple years and now they are my mainstay reels, Shimano Curado 300Ej and a Abu Toro Winch 60. For me the low-pro reels are just more comfortable, lighter and and seem to cast better for me. I still have and use a couple round reels mainly Saltist for the heavier stuff.

I'm going to pick up a Daiwa Lexa 300 and give it a go, wouldn't mind trying the Quantum EXO PT 300 - but that is a lot of coin for just a "try".

[chief]

Low profile reels were first to market many, many years ago as they were pretty straightforward to design and manufacture. As machining materials and procedures evolved, it became easier and more profitable to make reels in a variety of shapes.

Round reels have always boasted large line capacities. However, as lines and drags evolved, large line capacities have become less important (note: for the sake of casting efficiency, and maximum retrieve rates, it's best to keep any spool filled to capacity). Round reels, as a rule, are simple to service and repair, as access/takedown is easy. Servicing low profile reels isn't exactly calculus, but access can require locating and removing umpteen tiny screws.

Comfort is king. If you have smaller hands, or if other ergonomic issues prevail, low profile reels are the best choice. If you have bigger hands, or lots of money already invested in round reels.....no problem. Most of my reels are round, but, of my two mainstays, one is an Abu Toro (low) and one is a Penn 975 (round).

[Shawn Kellett]

I'm the President of the Curado 300EJ fan club (we have jackets). For muskie fishing it does most everything well short of burning big blades, but they do ok with them (awesome for night blade fishing). The only thing they're not good for is trolling & sucker fishing.

[TonyKay]

+1 on the curado ej......awesome reel and tough as nails.

[SmellEsox]

+1 on the curado ej......awesome reel and tough as nails.

What size line and how much are you getting on your Curados?

[RuKiddingMe]

Not sure of the exact yardage - but I have 80# Suffix 832 on mine, Thorne Bros spooled it and that was what they recommended.

[SmellEsox]

Ok, have narrowed it down to either a 400B or Curado. Which would you choose? And if the Curado, the E or the EJ?

[RuKiddingMe]

Curado 300 ej would get my vote - based on the setups you currently have.

[cluelessfisherman]

Curado 300ej gets my vote too - it's my go to for smaller blades, spinnerbaits and straight retrieve top waters, which covers about 75% of my fishing. I also have a revo toro winch and revo toro 60 HS in my arsenal that have their time and place, but the ej is the best low profile reel out there in my opinion.

[Shawn Kellett]

EJ. I use that more then I do my TE's anymore.

[MuskieFever]

Picked up an NaCl instead. Can't wait to put it to the test.

[RawHog]

Anyone else interested in some of the newcomers to the lowpro muskie club, such as the Diawa Lexa 300 or Quantum Exo pt 300? Somebody on this HSOforum has to bite on one of these at the show and they better tell us how they like it!