Teardrop ice reel:

[CaptainMusky]

Matty, thanks for the feedback based on your experience. That is what I was looking for. I still want to play around with one a bit more before buying. Hopefully the local retailer will spool one up for some demos.

For the guys thinking that line twist is similar to a spinning reel that is just preposterous. Spinning reels create line twist regardless of what lure you are using purely because of how they retrieve line. Exactly as Matty said.

A typical jig will create little if any twist, but "darting" lures certainly can. I usually have a barrel swivel in line up 18" or so that would eliminate this.

[wormdunker]

Here is my "opinion". It seems as though it would be awkward to handle. The thumb bar is in a position that really seems strange to me if you hold the rod handle to fish. I tried one on a rod and I could not find a comfortable and accessible way to engage the spool with out shuffling my hands around each time I needed to engage the spool.

For those of you that like the reel, do you hold the reel itself when fishing it or do you hold the rod ? Also, I felt like the reel was heavy when holding the rod handle, seemed more balanced when holding the reel palm style.

[MN BassFisher]

I'm sure its a very nice reel but I just can't fathom paying that much for an ice reel. I would prefer to buy 4 Shimano Sienna's.

[20lbSloughShark]

Line twist is a common problem? I must have strange reels.

[LakeDocktor]

Line twist is a common problem? I must have strange reels.

I think you are confusing line twist with lure twist. Although there are a lot of factors that will contribute to line or lure twist, it is still present on all spinning reels. There are a few of key tips that can help you cut down on the amount of twist you have such closing the bail by hand and making sure that your lure, bait, or plastics is positioned correctly. Adding a small swivel will also help aid in preventing twist.

As for the Teardrop, I have had the opportunity to use it. While I feel comfortable adjusting the settings, there are going to be many that purchase this reel that will have backlash issues. In my opinion, there isn't enough room to "thumb" the spool and like others have said, you need to rearrange your hands to do so. Ice up also concerns me, but until I have the chance to use it on the ice, it is still up in the air. Overall, I think it is quality reel. It is a little heavier than I'd like and the spool diameter is too small in my opinion. Time and more people using this will be the deciding factor on if this is a great reel.

[fishwater]

Anyone know the line capacity of the teardrop? I read that the drag was rated @ 12 lbs?. How deep could heavier line be fished without a level-wind? Any info appreciated.

[fishfinder72]

As with any new style product you are going to have people that say "that will never work" or "that isn't worth the money". I tried several inline reels last year and they really worked for my fishing style and will remain in my rod bag. That being said they are not for everyone.

I got a chance to handle the teardrop at the shop and was impressed overall. Of course I have not gotten a chance to use it on the water yet but look forward to doing so.

To those that refuse to give the new products of the ice fishing industry a try in my opinion you are simply missing out.

[MN BassFisher]

Anyone know the line capacity of the teardrop? I read that the drag was rated @ 12 lbs?. How deep could heavier line be fished without a level-wind? Any info appreciated.

It looks like 300 yards of 2lb line, 250 yards of 4lb test, and 180 yards of 6lb test.

[20lbSloughShark]

I am a little pessimistic at times. I just don't like when something comes on the market that really isn't that innovative, and everyone jumps at it. Some will like it. I'm just trying to make the ones who wont, think before they buy. You all know that guy who buys anything different looking because he thinks it will give him an edge. Buy the reel as a tool, not as a secret weapon.