Best spinning reels

[Lunker]

I know this really isn't an ice fishing topic(to hell with me, right?) Anyways, was looking to upgrade on my best openwater spinning combo, adn was wondering what the best deal for a reel is for under abotu $80. Thanks for any input

[uffdapete]

Cabela's has been closing out the Shimano Symetre 2000 for the last 6 months. They're marked at $50 and normally run $85. Best to call and make sure they're still running the sale.

1/1/05 - was over there yesterday - they still have the 2000 w/front drag for 50 and have added the 1000 w/rear drag for 60.

The new symetres are 80.

[Deitz Dittrich]

I'm with ufda on this one.. you really cant go wrong with the Symetry. For ice fishing I would go with the new 750 size.. I got to use my new Shimano Sedona(49.99) up on Lake of the Woods.. and performed flawlessly!... awesome reel!

[gunflint]

I agree Shimano is the way to go for a spinning reel in that price range.

[priorbass]

Take a look at Okuma...can get a real nice 9 or 10 ball bering for under $60.00...check them out at midwest rod and reel web-site...any ? about them call or e-mail

[federline]

Another vote for the Shimano Sedona. I have an ultralight Sedona that I transfer between my summertime ultralight rod and one of my ice rods. I dropped the bucks last spring and have been real impressed since, nice, smooth, easy to operate reel. I picked up a second, larger Sedona as a result.

With $80, I'd upgrade to the Symetre, as Exude notes. The Symetre 750 size is graphite - the larger sized Symetre's are aluminum.

[lawman]

For my money the Quantum line of reels is for me. I have two Catalyst and two Kinetic models. Good drag and both models come with extra spools.

[CatManLee]

I love the Abu's for spinning reels. Great feel, good drag, cheaply priced and seem to last a good while.

On the other hand, I have a Shimano that is about 3 years old and used alot. It still works as good as new, never had a problem.

I think if you go with any good name and like the feel, you'll be happy with it.

[wildirishrose]

The Shimano Symetre is a great reel, smooth and crisp (drag is above average also) the best rig out there for under a Franklin.

[HAWKICE70]

I'm with Catman, I love my Abu's. Dont let their price fool you, their great reels.Definately worth checking out.Smooth drag,instant anti-reverse,cast a mile,

I have a Quantum Catalyst too,I love it to but its alot more $$$

[Deitz Dittrich]

Federline-actually the 750 is a brand new size, and all the symetry reels will be alum this year. Not graphite...Expect the same great quality on the 750 size as the lager 2500 size...Including the new ARB berring!!!

[delmuts]

although i love my symetrys ( mine are about ten yr. old. no repairs yet) i just finished cleaning my sons' catalyst PT. i'm impressed. the inside showed no wear. the grease was still clean. all i had to do was reapply it to the gears.( this reel got a fair amount of use this year too !) we have several pinicle(sp) for our lite/ultra lite rods. we did have to return two do to the anti reverse not working ,( these too are older reels) but since they have been no problem . they do wear more. my next purchase will probably be another shamono ! del

[Mark Christianson]

I've always used Shimano, but I have gone a new direction.

Why? Not sure, but I have heard great stuff from a couple people and the Pflueger President series.

I just got a President spinning reel, and it sure feels good. Its got 10 bearings.

It is $59.99, and they have a coupon for a softsided tackle bag($29.99 value) for every reel purchased. You pay $7 for shipping for the tackle bag.

[JohnMickish]

Sedona or Sahara. However I also have a Quantum Hypercast that I like pretty well too. Nope, I guess if I where going to buy all new reels again I'd do it all the way with Shimano.

[Northlander]

I have a lot of Shimanos but in the past few years have been running Okumas. The spinning reels are nice and smooth and my Lake Superior Trolling reels are hangin in there too. Cant go wrong for the buck. Lots of good reels out there these days.

[chunkytrout]

I'm with Northlander on this one. I've owned different models and have been pleased with all of them. They have quite a bit to choose from and the price/quality can't be beat. Take a look at Okuma.

[Lunker]

Thanks to everyone. All very good insite and I like to hear it from a bunch of guys who I know use them. I used to use abu's before swithing to shimano's. I like the nicer shimano reels a lot, but I've also been hearing lots of good stuff about the other brands mentioned here. Got some thinking to do...