Combat Chuck

Ok thanks, I was looking at these for more of a steelhead setup but I guess they can be a good bass setup too? Is there much difference in the models that would make it go one way or the other?

GraphiteZen

Pretty much just size and gear ratio, but I'm not sure they even come in many sizes. A lower ratio would be better for steelhead because they have more torque, and some people prefer a higher ratio for bass so that they can zip buzzbaits across the top, stuff like that. I know a guy that is a HARDCORE steelheader and he only uses Ambassadors.

The only thing I can think of to watch out for is make sure the spool release is right behind the spool like most baitcasters. I have seen some Ambassadors that have it off to the side, and you have to use two hands to cast. One to thumb the spool so your bait doesn't fall to the ground, and the other to click it... But that was a while ago and I doubt they make them like that anymore.

__________________
When I die, screw some hooks into my spine and head for the deep water.

chris61182

If you're seriously interested in the Abu-Garcia reels, you might want to even look at their low profile reels as well. It's not widely (or at all) advertised but on the Max series of reels the thumb bar works as a flipping switch when pushed up. And of course there is the Revo series as well but those cost a fair bit more.

Oh and they do still make the reels with the button off to the side, that's the whole C3 line of round baitcasters. I personally love my 5501C3, but I use it for fishing the jetties with big baits so I've already got two hands involved. Though I could certainly see a traditional thumb bar being quite nice when pitching lighter lures for trout and bass.

And you might find some good deals here...
Fisherman's Factory Outlet: Product Directory [Reels]

Mustangdan23

I dont think you would use a low-pro for steelhead or Salmon fishing they ten to not have a carbon drag in them and a big steely will smoke it. I just bought a Abu Record 61 yesterday for my salmon setup, amazing reel, feels great very smooth.

chris61182

I wouldn't worry too much about the drag on any modern reel, low profile or otherwise, no salmon or steelhead will be smoking it.

chris61182

Ahh! I knew I had seen this somewhere before...

Sailfish on a Revo

I guess that also throws out the idea that levelwinds don't work for big game fish either.

Combat Chuck

HMM... good to know, im eying those max reels

Combat Chuck

I owe you one graphite zen! I put together my creation based off of your idea and it got me 3 trout. I used other lures and that was the only one that caught anything. Im not sure if there are bass where I was fishing but hopefully I will have the same luck when I find them.

Attached Thumbnails

   

osmosis

Check out abu's Revo line. I absolutely love mine, and it's their cheapest model in the series - the S. Best casting distance with little weights of all my casting reels.

as far as I know ambassadeur's still have the spool release on the right hand side instead of a thumb bar. revo's have the thumb bar. I used a 5500cl3 for a long time before going to a pfleuger then a quantum, then the revo for drift fishing and there is no way I would go back.

oh yeah the revo is low profile and I have caught atleast 200 coho on it and haven't had the drag go out yet.

GraphiteZen

haha that's awesome man nice job! The little squirly tale is a nice touch. I never though of using plastic for trout!

__________________
When I die, screw some hooks into my spine and head for the deep water.