Muskie Reels

[Slip Sinker]

I just bought a Calcutta TE 400. I used an Ambassadeur 6600/SSC3 last year. I like the reel, but the radius of the crank makes it harder for me to crank all day than I would like. Is the Calcutta a good reel for Muskies? Should I have bought the 700? I don't know if the 400 holds enough line. Any help is appreciated.

[guideman]

Hi Slip sinker,

You will absolutely love the 400 TE Calcutta for muskie fishing. They can handle most baits very well from large bucktails to gliders and topwater lures. I bought my first one last year after many years of fishing with Abu's various models. Word is they are discontinuing the TE's, you should be able to find them at a nice discount this year at most outlets.

"Ace"

[TECK]

I heard that the Calcutta will be droped and the TE will still be made.

[guideman]

Hey TECK,

You're right about the TE model Calcutta however, Shimano is replacing the CT400 Calcutta with the new Calcutta CT400B. The new model has the higher gear ratio (5.0:1), and a new handle, along with easier side access.

They are also introducing 2 new models for muskie fishing. The Corvalus and the Cardiff, which will compete with the lower priced Abu line.

"Ace"

[Slip Sinker]

Thanks Ace, this will be my first full season of muskie fishing.

[muskymike]

Doug~ I hope you'll get a chance to use that new reel in my boat this year. I had a great time last year.

You all know the story, it's our first time out together, it's 5:00am, sunlight just beginning to light up the morning and we pull up to our first structure. I throw a topwater bait on and half hartedly cast out with the intent of showing my new muskie fishing friend how to handle a baitcaster. Sure enough, first cast, 30 feet from the boat the water explodes. A 40" in the boat in 5 minutes. Didn't we get another that day? What a great time!

I plan on seeing you for a repeat of last years' early walleye outing. I can't wait. Maybe another big sturgeon is in my future. I should be able to fish until about 12:00 that day.

[Slip Sinker]

MuskyMike,

I am looking forward to the opener on the 'Croix. You got me hooked on Muskie fishing. I would love to do a repeat of that day that you caught 3 'skies. I am looking forward to learning from you this year. I have spent about $1000 in gear since that day. If you are ever looking for a partner to go toss some lures, let me know. Maybe Tom will join us.