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Recommendation on a steelhead spinning reel

18K views 56 replies 44 participants last post by  flatman  
#1 ·
The other day I picked up a lamiglas redline 9'4" for float fishing for steelhead. I have several shamano reels but I keep running into the same problem. The fine grove in the bail keeps catching on my bobber stop. It seems the ci4 has the same issue. I looked at the smoke pt40 and it seems like a nice reel and the retrieve on the bail is smooth and I think the bobber stop will not get hung up. Anyone own one of these? Any other reels that you guys can think of that I should look at?
 
#2 · (Edited)
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

I've had really good use out of my Okuma reels, not a single issue.

I have to ask though, your bobber stop is so far up your line that it is in the reel?
 
#10 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

Best bang for the buck at this time is Shimano Saros. Lots of features from the higher end reels have trickled down to the cheaper ones. I think I paid $110 or so for mine and for that price it rocks.
+1. Saros rocks - best bang for the buck.
 
#14 ·
I've long used Shimano reels in many models but my last two purchases were Daiwa. I bought the ballistic (on sale of course) and the exceler. I love these reels, super smooth and the thicker bail makes them feel more solid. That being said I can't say I ever had an issue with shimano. Both companies make solid reels. As far as the bobber stop getting hung up, are you using the heavy thread style the comes with the float? I bought a package of stops with beads that come in a handy storage tube and the thread is far thinner than those supplied with the float. I've never had then catch on the reel but I'm also rarely fishing that deep.
 
#23 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

I've had no problems getting spare parts for my C4 at Ollie's. But I haven't had to take my reels in there for awhile. They may have run out of spare parts. But as of a few years ago, they had them.

Need some Cardinal 4 parts? I might have what you need. PM me about what parts you are looking for.
 
#29 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

Roosevelt- What models were lemons for you? My Shimano reels don't get as many fish as yours but they get their share. Ci4s and older Sustain still holding on. You like the SS? I have a couple in the garage I haven't used for years as these are probably 10 years old Great drag on that reel but a little undersized as I have the 2000s/2500s.

Hope not to learn any new lessons from Shimano. Too much money invested in that brand at this point.
 
#30 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

a sahara and 2 symmetries....I hope you keep having good luck with them, i'm sure I will revisit them someday.

back in the day I could get a Sedona for 40 bucks that would work like butter for 2+ seasons, those were my favorite spinning reels ever, they could get all egg gooed up, dunked on a regular basis and still be smooth in every aspect.

I would like to try a CI4, but my luck with them lately, I have a hard time spending the money....have not heard much bad about them though.
 
#32 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

Cant go wrong with the Shimano Sedona, Symetre, Saros, Stradic Ci4, and my personal favorite the new Stradic HK. The new stradic is the perfect balance of smoothness, super light, and durability. This very well may be the last spinning reel you buy!
 
#35 ·
Re: Recommendation on a steelhead spinning real

Shimano. Every time I've tried something else I've ended up coming back. According to a customer of mine that works for Shimano, the Saros is the current bang for the buck winner. For less money you can't go wrong with Sahara.
I have 2 saros reels and LOVE them. I also have a symmetry thats been my salmon spinning reel for a decade. I always clean and relube my reels after each season, so thats why they take care of me back.

Roosevelt, your spot on with the Penn Battle reels. I have 2 of those as well that are butter smooth. I did have one fail after fighting a bunch of steelies, though. I think no matter what company you consistently support, your going to have some fail on you.