New baitcaster recommendations

[uffdapete]

I'm looking for a new baitcasting reel to spool with lighter line - like 6-8 lb mono or 6-8 diameter superbraid and cast 1/8 to 3/8. I grew up on baitcasters so have a lot of experience with them.

Any recommendations for a reel under $100 that will perform well with that size line using those size lures? Specifically I want to throw cranks primarily for smallmouth and walleyes and occasionally for largemouth.

Important factors are avoiding backlashes (with a properly adjusted reel), reliability and light weight. I'll be building a rod for this application.

[BIG DS]

Most baitcasters don't reccomend using less than 10 or 12 pound line. But...I use a Daiwa, Team Daiwa Advantage 150H (6.3:1, 8.5oz) with 8lb Trilene XL with good success. It retails for 99.95 most places. Under that, you will not find many good quality reels. There are some very nice reels available right at the $100 mark that should fit your needs.

I tried the braided thing on a couple different reels of mine, and didn't like how it casted. The braided line tends to cut into the spool too much and get caught.

[Corey Bechtold]

I would look at the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 2005 Low Profile. It has 5 bearings for smooth performance, a 6.2:1 gear ratio, flippin switch, and retails for under 80 bucks. A great reel for the money!

Good Luck,

Corey Bechtold

[uffdapete]

Thanks for the recommendations - I'll take a look at both. Yet another great thing about this site - being able to get recommendations from people who've been there done that. Saves money, headaches and frustration.

[bucketmouth64]

Look thru the bps catalog. If you want an off brand I think bps' Extreme has come out with a reel for lighter applications. If I'm wrong, then you'll have fun looking thru the catalog again

[BIG DS]

Another thing you could do if you wanted to do a little research before shopping check Bass Pro Shops' and Cabelas' online stores. There is a lot of good information on all the reels mentioned and more. Check it out.