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I need a new spinning reel and would appreciate some help choosing the right one.
First of all, I can only pay $50 or less because we're living on a small pension. I figure I should have a reel rated for 6-10 line weight because it will be used on lakes/res. in Utah (true/false?).
I've been told that the number of ball bearings doesn't mean anything in terms of smoothness. I've tried an Okuma Avenger with 7 BB's and an Shimano Sahara with 4 BB's. The Shimano was definately smoother than the Okuma which had a lot of vibration. Both of these reels are at the top end of my budget.
At any rate, given those parameters, what would you folks recommend?
Thanks, Jim
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I am partial to the Shimano's unless you wanna step up and get a Quantum Catalyst (which is the best reel buck for buck around right now).
The Sedona is an awesome reel, the bail closing isnt as smooth as that of the Quantum but it is a solid reel and for the money if pretty tough to beat.
This site [url "http://www.tackletour.com"]http://www.tackletour.com[/url] has some really good reviews on it for misc gear.
I would just go to SW, dont tell them what your budget is and tell them you are looking for the best value in a reel - then see what feels good to you. I would stick with Daiwa/Shimano or Quantum, the Okuma's are good values, but not as reliable as the others, ime (they make a helluva fly reel though).
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The 2 Okumas I have have not held up very well. The drag burned out on one catching carp. (should of used heavier line than the 10lb test) On the other, the anti reverse keeps slipping. Especially in colder weather. It might be the grease freezing up. It gets frustrating when you let go of the handle and it spins in reverse. Lost a nice brown on the Snake river last weekend because I lost tension on the line with the fish. Yet Xman hasn't had any problems with his Okuma's. Maybe it was just my bad luck from the pic of the lot.
Both reals have been replaced by the new Rapala reels. 30-60 $'s depending on the model. If they hold up as well as their poles, I should be good to go.
DTHagen
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shimano is the only way to go i have 5 and like em all
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Okuma Reels ... Hands down are the best. 10 Ball Bearing reels for under 40. bucks. Give them a shot. You won't be disappointed.
P.S. I have returned a reel or two to the manuf. They sent me new ones free! Great company!
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I have 4 Shimano's, love them. Have used them for 20+ years now. Fight'n drag is the best! They are a tad spendier, run about $59.
Hopper
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I have to agree with Clif (UtBass) I have this Okuma that he gave me which is 10 ball bearings and they are so smooth that it is frightening! Ha ha... I love this Okuma that I use it for walleyes and bass. (Thanks UtBass!) I once broke the handle and I called the company and they sent me a brand new handle which is even better than the original. Okuma is a good company and the representatives were more than happy to help you on the phone. Great services!
The other one is rather pricey @115.00 for Shimano's Stradic. Very good reel, and worth every buck too.
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Thanks everyone who responded to my help request. I decided to buy the Shimino Sahrara because (1) that was my first choice after trying both the Okuma & Shimino at Sportsman's and (2) I was able to pick up a new one on eBay for $39.00 including shipping. It arrived today and it is fine....really fine.
Thanks again for the help!
Jim
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