New line counter reel and info by Buzz--

[Jennie@ifish]

http://www.ifish.net/brlinecounter.jpg

All New 5500/6500 Ambassadeur Reel with Line Counter

The ever popular Abu Garcia 5500 and 6500 levelwind baitcast reel is now available in a Line Counter version. The re-settable line counter is geared to the levelwind mechanism, which means it is accurate no matter how far or fast your fish runs.

Both all new Abu Line Counter reels feature a push button line release, two stainless steel ball bearings, plus an instant anti-reverse bearing, line-out clicker alarm, 5.3 to 1 gear ratio, and all new (glass smooth) Carbon Matrix drag system. Besides advancing the drag system to a new level of smoothness at any setting, what the new Carbon Matrix Drag system allows you to do is tighten the drag 35 percent more, which might help you land that world-record salmon a little quicker or more easily break away from a stubborn hang up.

The 5500 size features a double handle design and is sure to be a winner for anglers wanting a line counter on a small baitcasting reel sized for steelhead, walleye, and trout or Kokanee trolling. The 6500LC size features a power handle with enough line capacity (it will hold 245 yards of 14 pound test monofilament) to tame any salmon or other large fish.

These new reels are a must have whether trolling, backtrolling or jigging and will provide accurate line let out (in feet) every time.

[Salty1]

Jennie,

I read your article and did some research - aka a trip to Joe's..lol

Here are My field findings after a fair amount of hard work :::grin::::

The 6500 LC is really smooth, feels like nearly all the Ambassadors in that size brackets, and comes with the "Power Handle" (which can cause a strong wobble on retrieve) imho. Conversely the 5500 LC comes with double paddle handles which helps the balance greatly, also has the line out alert and delivers considerably better balanced feel. While I started with both reels, the 5500LC won out quickly over the 6500LC forcing me to give up a little line capacity, but with the super lines I feel this is a virtually nil point. Also, as the 5500 LC is a couple ounces lighter, it's earned space on Kokanee trips for jigging and trolling, is being used to toss spinner baits at bass, and I believe will still provide the "UMPH" to bring home springers or steelies.
I have run about every reel made with a counter (and some that shouldn't have them) so I'd suggest anyone thinking about buying one - get it in your hands and try it yourself first. Be familiar with the controls while on at least a rod handle in the store if available. Lastly, expect to plunk down nearly $100 per copy, but remember they will last a very, very long time if well maintained.

[Roperguy]

are they available with left hand retrieve?

[Rusty]

Ditto~ Left hand retrieve Question. (??)

Rusty

[Fish mojo]

http://www.abugarcia.com/prod.php?k=57106&sk=46555&p=PUR5500LC
they only show RH on theie web site. Too bad, I would buy a couple of lefty 5501 Line counters if they had them. (Attention Abu- you are losing business!!)

Cabelas and Okuma make decent left hand line counters.