I'm an older lady trying to teach myself to fish.. so these videos are GREAT!!! I also took Mud Holes rod building class last January and the micro guides came up in discussion. They said they are all hype and not good at all. They did not recommend them, even though they sell them. Said they cut down on casting distance greatly.
Main reason for small/micro guides is for weight and sensitivity. When fishing with 1000/2000 size reels you’re fishing ultralight, meaning you want the weight to be as light as possible, for me at least, small guides do this. The casting distance lost is fractional and not as important as weight in my eyes when talking ultralight.
As they mentioned in this video too, when fishing ultralight, use good quality light braid. 5-10lb / .2 - .5 pe this will for sure help with casting distance with small guides
Weight, castability, drag and capacity are all important issues when going fishing a for a long time, not all of us have a big budget for having 4 or 5 rods with different reels so taking into account what kind of fishing you do the most is also key when selecting your reels, nice to see your take on that particular matter, thank you for the informative video.
37 years living and fishing in Japan here ... selling the 30 foot offshore boat (and heavier tackle for amberjack and dolphin) and going towards ultralight for inshore and freshwater kayak fishing. I've recently bought a new 1000 sized Daiwa Caldia and 2000 Luvias ... they both use the same size spool. I upgraded both with extra ball bearings from Hedgehog Japan (highly recommended) ... but the one thing they don't carry which I am experimenting with is upgraded drags. The small Daiwas have a higher drag rating than comparable sized Shimanos, but without a drag stack ... just a single felt washer. I have ordered some sheets of very thin teflon and carbonated and will make a mini stack. I've heard that Cal's grease or Shimano's is the best for drags ... but haven't tested it, and wouldn't even know how. I guess the biggest I can expect to catch from the Kayak for inshore fishing around Izu (West Tokyo) ... would be aka hata (red grouper) about 50 cm long, so depending on the rod, 10 lb braid should do it. But most of my fishing is from the docks for bluegill sized, baby jack trevalle, sardines, horse mackerel, and assorted bottom fish ... so the new 2 or 3 pound polyester lines will do, or 3 - 6 lb braid. Skeptical about wearing out a 400 lb marlin on 2 lb test. From what I've heard, it's the captain that deserves the kudos ... having a stern that opens up and just backing the boat down on the fish, literally scooping it up even while it's still green.
You guys should have mentioned that real sizing 1k 2.5k 3k etc is not standardized. A penn Slammer 3 4500 is equal to say a Shimabo Saragosa 6000. The a Diawa has reels that match both of these either being much larger for series and others that are more even with Shimano. Also speaking of drag and considering 1/3 of line strength. First 90% of line ratings are much lower then actual break strength. Include the knots and I guess it's correct as strength decreases. But drag works on the same theory. You should never expect a 4eels drag rating to be what you would use for duration. As you used a car speedo as an example. You can not use the max power of a engine but for a few seconds or the powertrain would start to melt down. Further you mention 10lb test, yet in numerous articles you recommend 15lb. That's a 50% increase even though its a normal one step up in sw fishing. Thus that 3lb for 10lb test is now 5lb drag for 15lb test. Now you are using 65% of the max drag of a 1k series. Take Shimano not known usually for high drag ratings but instead butter smooth drags. its Stradic FL 1k light 7lb which would max its drag working your recommended 15lb braided. The Stradic 3k though has a 20lb drag as does the 2500 as well. That is almost 3x...300% increase in max peak drag going up just one model series size. We are not even speaking of the effect on duty cycle of these toy size reels when pulling in 20lb fish. Finally while it an ego boost to land fish on ultra light tackle it skyrockets the death rate after release when you are fishing C&R on larger fish. Up north they actually mod the size limits on stripers from the huge losses they were seeing on C&R from not being in slot. One of the primary causes stated was fish exhaustion from anglers using ultra light tackle. Of course the other was not using circle hooks. Anyways you guys do awesome work and do a great job educating the community. Keep up the great job.
I like how you mentioned about playing the fish too much that it would cause death to the fish. If the intention is to catch and release, I think as ethical anglers, we shouldn't play the fish too much that would increase the chance of fish dying.
Oh hell ......it's called ultralight fishing. I've caught many trout in mountain streams and rivers on the same setup. I don't always catch and release.
I may have missed it, but what about handle size and retrieve speed? Aren’t 1000 handles shorter? I actually prefer better balance over weight reduction. I bought a Stradic a while back but returned it for a heavier Symetre solely because the stradic made my setup more tip heavy. A balanced setup actually feels lighter, even if heavier on paper
@@paytdub7349 the whole point in buying a Stradic or Vanford is the weight savings. They really don’t function any differently than a $80-100 reel, so In my case the weight savings was null and I got to save $100.
the new reels are so light you can get away with a bigger one which are more versatile. i just bought a fuego 4000, weight 9oz spooled, for trout and i can still use it for the surf if i need to. extremely versatile.
☝️right here. I have always used 4000 mainly because I can you it for nearshore fishing as well. Also where I used to fish we had monster Tarpon where a 4000 was necessary.
In my experience with braid line, I just wrap the spool with black electrical tape about 2 times, then put the braid on. It gives it something to hold on to and don't slip. If you put mono on first then tie the braid on, to me its a wast of time and you have an extra knot you have to tie. That is just another weak point you don't need. Fewer knots, fewer problems or weak points. That's my opinion.
Excellent information, I have been watching your videos for a while and they seem great, I am an anesthesiologist and I treat covid patients, so going fishing in the afternoons and weekends is the only thing that relaxes me. I really appreciate your advice, greetings from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Luke you can be as technical as you can be...i see Luke as Doc Brown and Joe as Marty Mcfly Lol! its refreshing hearing the perspective to a science or engineering level of design of what makes certain reels to be the way they are. I'm an auto technician so thats why i love to hear the nuts and bolts...you guys speak my language. Lighter reels to be is a preference on the style of fishing you're going for. I'd put the reels in certain tiers of what certain fish you're targeting but a preference the most relax way of fishing style. Far casting and finesse light fishing will never be my style and especially of the risk of getting slammed with heavy predator fish under heavy structures. For me will always be 4000 and up. I really enjoy these videos...I always wanted something like this to enlighten me on smaller reels and the reasons of making buying decisions. Thank you guys!
I bought a Quantum Cabo 20 almost 20 years ago. I have caught more nice fish on it and it still performs like new. I have it spooled with 15 lb. suffix 832. I can cast soft plastics a mile. They have not made this reel in 8 years. I was lucky enough to find a Cabo 30 that was still brand new and never used. They dont make them like that anymore!
Thank you for all these informative pod casts. I was attentive to Luke’s reel-to-rod balance segment and purchased the TFO rod. Now I’m looking for a reel to provide that balance. Luke, what reel did you use to demonstrate that one finger test?
I mean I buy 1000 ci's for ultra light setups... my 2000's for bass and larger fish. the 1000's can throw 4lb test all the way down a creek with easy on a 6' 2-piece. I can't get that distance on some of my heavier setups.
Agreed about casting distance and 10 pound braid is equivalent to 2 pound monofilament and I would guess you can cast it really far and strength wise I wouldn’t feel good about it
@@funkymonk36 The 2500 size reels can handle surprisingly big fish... here's a video showing a ~50 lb tarpon getting caught on a 2500 with just 10 lb line: czcams.com/video/K9cJeyjxeFk/video.html
Fishing off Southern California in the kelp beds around Catalina and Channel Islands, one needs a higher drag. The big Yellowtails, White Sea Bass and some other species will run to the rocks or kelp and they need to be stopped before they try you up. I had 20lbs of drag on my reel and I could not stop one. It may have been a Black Sea Bass (grouper) but I could not stop it. Those smaller drag reels are OK for Calico Bass, Barracuda and some of the smaller predators but it is risky here because you never know what is going to bite in the kelp beds.
It seems that the 2500 point ,, it a sweet spot ,, for most inshore fishing plus with the a quality leader. And appropriate drag,,including for boat inshore fishing ,,thanks guys for a very helpful / very educational video.
Here in japan we have shallow spools no need for backing adds weight to the spool adding mono line.. i use tape around the spool then tie my braid line so it dont slip
I use 1000 series for crappie (fresh water)/speckled trout (tidal rivers and inlets). 4000 series for flounder/striper in the bay and 5000 series for channel cat/cobia and shark.
Watch RX Angler and MDLR, they will use UL rods with small BFS or 500 size spinning reel and still pull in good slot and decent size bullreds, all u need if ur patient and now how to use ur drag
I had a cool "Old Man and the Sea" experience yesterday, and it is relevant to this discussion about reel size. I was trolling in the inland water way at the mouth of the Lockwood Folly River (NC) for speckled trout (my trolling motor was on the fritz) with a 7' medium/light spinning rod with a 2500 reel spooled with 10lb. mono pulling a Shad Rap. One of my rods bent over double, and the drag started screaming....I figured I had snagged the bottom so I cut my motor, reeled in the second rod and went to turn the boat around to try to clear the lure. When I looked, the line was no longer behind the boat but 90 degrees to my starboard side. As I tightened my line, it felt like I was snagged on the bottom.....until I felt a sudden tug and whatever was on my line started stripping off 30 yards or so of line. I maneuvered the boat as best I could, following the mystery fish (or being dragged by it is more accurate) for about 10 minutes. At that point a Manta Ray skied about 50 yards off the bow, jumping 5 feet out of the water 3 times before sounding again. The fish was every bit of 6 feet from wing tip to wing tip, and had to weigh in excess of 150 lbs. He dragged me down the waterway almost a mile, jumping 5 more times in the process. I would gain some line on him, and then he would strip twice the line I had gained. He almost spooled me twice, forcing me to chase him down with the motor each time. Then he started to head out of the inlet, and was dragging me in my 15 ' Jon boat. No matter how much pressure I put on him, I could not turn him or tire him. After a 45 minute fight (well actually, it wasn't much of a fight....he had his way with me) I had to cut him off before he dragged me out of the inlet in to open water. Point being that even a 2500 spinning reel with 10 lb. test mono can handle a hell of a large fish if you let the rod do the work and have the drag set properly. I was amazed that I was able to keep this huge fish on the line, that the lure held up and that my knot held.
Those rays are extremely powerful so your knots and tackle passed a very tough test with flying colors given that you had it on for so long. May I ask what process you used to cut it off?
You mentioned reel weights and two of my reels happened to be sitting close by, my old Mitchel 300 was 12 oz..not too bad, my Penn 750 SS from 1990..1 lb 11 oz or 27 grams..I think I understand why I don't use that reel as much anymore.
When casting any size spinning reel, if you let your index finger "feather" the line as it flies off the spool, your line will shoot straight into the first guide directly without slapping against the rod shaft and becoming congested as it tries to fit into that first guide. So that really neutralizes the small-coil advantage of a small diameter spool. The main difference will be in inches of line retrieved per handle crank.
Hey guys I’m trying to decide which new shimano vanford size reel I should get.. I’m mainly a freshwater fisherman (bass & trout.) I live in Southern California, just couple min drive down to San Clemente and Dana point beach and haven’t fished the ocean in over 15 years lol. I just got into fishing again this last year and have been to scared to use my gear in the saltwater since I don’t really know how to maintenance reels well yet.. I’ve been looking at the 2500 for mainly finesse applications (drop shot, Ned, shaky heads and also jerkbaits) but I’m thinking maybe the 3000 will be a more adequate option if I want to start fishing at the ocean again aswell? I would probabaly only be using it from the jetty if that helps narrow things down. Would the 2500 be plenty for all applications I’ve listed or would a get more out of the 3000? Any help would be greatly appreciated. This channel has taught me so much this last year, I’m extremely greatful for the help and knowledge you all have given me!
I live in SoCal too. For years, I mostly fished 90% freshwater and 10% saltwater from piers. I am now about 50/50 between freshwater and saltwater. If you are thinking Dana Point jetty or San Clemente pier, you will need a bigger reel probably in the 5000 or 6000 series size. If you are fishing from the surf, you can use 2500 or 3000 sized reels. Many guys/gals are using lightweight gear for surf with medium to medium-heavy steelhead rods ranging from 7 to 10 feet. I prefer surf fishing as I can cover a lot more area than fishing from a jetty and pier. Hope to see you out on the surf.
I have always been a fan of 2500 for bass and redfish. I have found adjusting my spinning reels to make the line lay more towards the front of the spool reduces wind knots. All my spinning reels are Shimano, but I am sure you can do this with others. All you do is take away one of the spool shaft washers.
I prefer small reels because I was taught to catch snook on 6 lb test with a Penn 430SS at the beach in Sarasota, and ever since then I've wanted to use the lightest tackle that's practical. Light tackle is just more fun.
I love how: Reels do nothing for casting distance; but the reason he didn't like the 1,000 is that it didn't cast as far (as was really surprised that it didn't).
@@kimloitran1786 It was his reasoning, not mine. He literally said, "Its doesn't make a difference on casting distance." The says it does. So you being right about a tighter spool isn't the win, even though I might agree. Or I might suggest a tighter spool produces less friction & drag . . . I don't know. You pick 'em. (Which was his point until he changed it . . . which was mine).
@@raytbrown2 what does he know lol had 1000 Shimano had get rid of because it was only good short casting. Comes off spool harder make up shorter line distance.
Granted, the rod is important. I want to fish heavy mats and I'm moving to a medium heavy 7'6" rod. The 1000 good enough with bank fishing, 14lb braid, for say 8 lb bass? (Yes, I know you're Salt strong but you're knowledgable and I appreciate that you guys don't blow smoke.) Would love to hear your thoughts.
I have a 500 series on a Manta.rod. Which I have dubbed the "mighty mattel " I found this rod when cleaning out a rental unit. It can't cast obviously but was free, has free 6lb mono on it, largest thing I've caught was prob 28to30 red. broke the drag but a great memory. I can still use it for trout. I love seeing how light I can get. I have nooo idea why folks use 4k reel for a 2lb trout.
Thank you for your question! We have a massive library of fishing tips on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu.
Thanks for your question! Make sure to ask this over on the actual blog or in the Community (www.saltstrong.com/) where the coaches spend their time. The blog can be found here: bit.ly/37Spo5p
18" to 30" i feel is a very realistic leader length. The whole reason for mono or fluorocarbon reader is to "hide" the line from the fish. So, the more leader, the farther the bait/lure is from the line. But leaders over 30" are a pain to cast, and knots can damage rod guide/tip rings.
Some spools are braid ready with the rubber lining. but a lot of them still are all metal. Either way, I start with mono to same money in filling the bottom of the spool with the much less expensive mono.
Can the Stradic FL 1000hg size reels hold up against big snook? I have a 6’7 Medium Heavy rod I want to pair up with the 1k Stradic / 10lb braid to use for sight casting light 1/8-1/16oz ned rigs at big snook in cover. Would the 1K be a good option?
Great question! Make sure to ask this over on the actual blog or in the Community (www.saltstrong.com/) where the coaches spend their time. The blog can be found here: bit.ly/37Spo5p
I can imagine that the shortage in gear coming from manufacturers during covid as caused people to at least look at 1000 reels because they are available.
Bought a 1000 to try, and it was a wind knot machine. Haven't had a wind knot in at least 2 years, and threw at least 6 in the first day of the 1000. Needless to say, the 1000 is now a paperweight.
25:03 This is absolutely true. I have a 63 year old neighbour who has 1000 and 2500 reels, he spools them with 6lb mono only on both reels and catches some donkey sized fish in the estuary, up river and in shore. The 1000 reel is paired with a 6.6ft medium light rod and the 2500 is paired with a 7ft medium rod. Personally my fave pairing would have to be a 3000 stradic with 10lb braid and a light 7ft rod. I prefer braid over mono because I have seen what happens to mono when it finds a river monster, half a spool of stretched mono is never cool, but I guess the story behind it is lol.
i have an okuma epixor 30 that is much closer to 1000 size shimano that i really like. But yet, wind knots do occur much more on this reel than my 2500 or 4000 size reels. Drives me insanne.
Line capacity too low and groupers and mutton’s are gonna mess you up with 3lbs of drag also for bass fishing I end up retying so much would just prefer the xtra capacity and little heavier line
I will always prefer the lightest reel I can use for the given condition. Not for casting distance... but for weight. I will be able to feel all bites much better. Same reason I only use braid these days. That being said... being a cheap bastard trumps all. I have some 2500s and a few large reels. That's it! I did LOVE my old 1000 but it finally bit the dust. I used it until it worked no more.
You're casting distance was one and a 1/2 to 3' difference over a 100 yds, if I remember correctly, that is almost an insignificant difference and in this discussion you are playing it like it's more important than it was.
The only significant finding in the casting test was that the smaller spool didn't cast farther... I was assuming it would since there's so much hype about the importance of the rod's guides to minimize the coiling rotation of the line as it's shooting out.
Are all reels manufactured in like 'series"? I use a Penn Battle 5000, how does it compare to a 1000, 2000, or 3000 of your series? Beginning your video should explain what you're comparing not technicalities of preferred drag settings. One spokesman, one subject and get to the point.
Well dang guys, I might ditch the inshore 3000 series ci4+ I have for a 1000 series and make the 3000 series my new surf setup! I absolutely love lightweight setups when on land
I think a typical 1000 series has a slower rate of retrieve even if the ratio is the same as the 3000 due to the smaller diameter spool. Depending on the lure I’m retrieving, this is a huge factor sometimes.
A "10 lb" braid is much stronger than just 10 lbs... a good knot should get it closer to 20 lb of tension before it breaks. The 10 lb line has a big advantage for those of us who need long casts to get to spooky fish up in the shallows. Here's a video showing a 10 lb line catching a 40+ inch snook even with an out of control dog on board: www.saltstrong.com/articles/catch-big-fish-on-light-line/
Not to sound like a Dummy but how do you set your drag to the point you are talking about. I always fished in fresh water (bass) with bait casting reels, until moving to FL. I set the drag by feel. With spinning reels it seems like it would be more important to hit that point you are talkin’ about...
Its all on the real for instance if you get a combo from ugly stick spinning real you will get wind knots i have a 1000 liews spinning real on a diowa rod with 10lb power pro braid with a 8lb leader and I can cast small lures and dont get any wind knots
Oh so it’s all about the distance, bullshit it’s about the spices of fish your after! Example how far do you cast for halibut or bluegill lol! What about spool hight try a 3000 Vanford compared to your Diawa! And yes it’s about how the rod loads up if your after distance! But fishing halibut with a 3lb weight and a circle hook you don’t set the hook just lift and wind! It’s all about the spices! Y’all have tunnel vision!!
I'm an older lady trying to teach myself to fish.. so these videos are GREAT!!! I also took Mud Holes rod building class last January and the micro guides came up in discussion. They said they are all hype and not good at all. They did not recommend them, even though they sell them. Said they cut down on casting distance greatly.
Yes, I remember back in the late 70's or early 80's a big deal was made for guides being too small essentially on spinning rods.
They cut down on casting distance but increase accuracy. That’s usually why you see them on baitcasting freshwater rods.
Main reason for small/micro guides is for weight and sensitivity. When fishing with 1000/2000 size reels you’re fishing ultralight, meaning you want the weight to be as light as possible, for me at least, small guides do this. The casting distance lost is fractional and not as important as weight in my eyes when talking ultralight.
As they mentioned in this video too, when fishing ultralight, use good quality light braid. 5-10lb / .2 - .5 pe this will for sure help with casting distance with small guides
Weight, castability, drag and capacity are all important issues when going fishing a for a long time, not all of us have a big budget for having 4 or 5 rods with different reels so taking into account what kind of fishing you do the most is also key when selecting your reels, nice to see your take on that particular matter, thank you for the informative video.
37 years living and fishing in Japan here ... selling the 30 foot offshore boat (and heavier tackle for amberjack and dolphin) and going towards ultralight for inshore and freshwater kayak fishing. I've recently bought a new 1000 sized Daiwa Caldia and 2000 Luvias ... they both use the same size spool. I upgraded both with extra ball bearings from Hedgehog Japan (highly recommended) ... but the one thing they don't carry which I am experimenting with is upgraded drags. The small Daiwas have a higher drag rating than comparable sized Shimanos, but without a drag stack ... just a single felt washer. I have ordered some sheets of very thin teflon and carbonated and will make a mini stack. I've heard that Cal's grease or Shimano's is the best for drags ... but haven't tested it, and wouldn't even know how. I guess the biggest I can expect to catch from the Kayak for inshore fishing around Izu (West Tokyo) ... would be aka hata (red grouper) about 50 cm long, so depending on the rod, 10 lb braid should do it. But most of my fishing is from the docks for bluegill sized, baby jack trevalle, sardines, horse mackerel, and assorted bottom fish ... so the new 2 or 3 pound polyester lines will do, or 3 - 6 lb braid.
Skeptical about wearing out a 400 lb marlin on 2 lb test. From what I've heard, it's the captain that deserves the kudos ... having a stern that opens up and just backing the boat down on the fish, literally scooping it up even while it's still green.
You guys should have mentioned that real sizing 1k 2.5k 3k etc is not standardized. A penn Slammer 3 4500 is equal to say a Shimabo Saragosa 6000. The a Diawa has reels that match both of these either being much larger for series and others that are more even with Shimano.
Also speaking of drag and considering 1/3 of line strength. First 90% of line ratings are much lower then actual break strength. Include the knots and I guess it's correct as strength decreases. But drag works on the same theory. You should never expect a 4eels drag rating to be what you would use for duration. As you used a car speedo as an example. You can not use the max power of a engine but for a few seconds or the powertrain would start to melt down. Further you mention 10lb test, yet in numerous articles you recommend 15lb. That's a 50% increase even though its a normal one step up in sw fishing. Thus that 3lb for 10lb test is now 5lb drag for 15lb test. Now you are using 65% of the max drag of a 1k series. Take Shimano not known usually for high drag ratings but instead butter smooth drags. its Stradic FL 1k light 7lb which would max its drag working your recommended 15lb braided. The Stradic 3k though has a 20lb drag as does the 2500 as well. That is almost 3x...300% increase in max peak drag going up just one model series size. We are not even speaking of the effect on duty cycle of these toy size reels when pulling in 20lb fish. Finally while it an ego boost to land fish on ultra light tackle it skyrockets the death rate after release when you are fishing C&R on larger fish. Up north they actually mod the size limits on stripers from the huge losses they were seeing on C&R from not being in slot. One of the primary causes stated was fish exhaustion from anglers using ultra light tackle. Of course the other was not using circle hooks.
Anyways you guys do awesome work and do a great job educating the community. Keep up the great job.
I like how you mentioned about playing the fish too much that it would cause death to the fish. If the intention is to catch and release, I think as ethical anglers, we shouldn't play the fish too much that would increase the chance of fish dying.
My group of fishing friends run daiwa 1000s on fast to extra fast ultralight rods for inshore and you'd be amazed at the fish they pull.
🔥🔥🔥
I caught lock ness with the same set up…but I’m all about catch and release;)
Sounds like an Ajing setup. It’s a pretty popular setup In Japan in recent years
Oh hell ......it's called ultralight fishing. I've caught many trout in mountain streams and rivers on the same setup.
I don't always catch and release.
Another great video, I continue to learn, very much appreciate the time and effort you put into the products.
Thanks Roger!
I may have missed it, but what about handle size and retrieve speed? Aren’t 1000 handles shorter?
I actually prefer better balance over weight reduction. I bought a Stradic a while back but returned it for a heavier Symetre solely because the stradic made my setup more tip heavy. A balanced setup actually feels lighter, even if heavier on paper
Good Info! 🔥🔥
Why didn't you just go a size up stradic than the one your using
@@paytdub7349 the whole point in buying a Stradic or Vanford is the weight savings. They really don’t function any differently than a $80-100 reel, so In my case the weight savings was null and I got to save $100.
the new reels are so light you can get away with a bigger one which are more versatile. i just bought a fuego 4000, weight 9oz spooled, for trout and i can still use it for the surf if i need to. extremely versatile.
☝️right here. I have always used 4000 mainly because I can you it for nearshore fishing as well. Also where I used to fish we had monster Tarpon where a 4000 was necessary.
Exactly. Fishing for trout in the surf, you just might hook into a bull red and regret having a tiny reel.
In my experience with braid line, I just wrap the spool with black electrical tape about 2 times, then put the braid on. It gives it something to hold on to and don't slip. If you put mono on first then tie the braid on, to me its a wast of time and you have an extra knot you have to tie. That is just another weak point you don't need. Fewer knots, fewer problems or weak points. That's my opinion.
Wish I seen this last week, I broke off "tog" fishing had drag lock tight, 3k reel with 10 lbs brain, lesson learned
Depending on style of fishing I'm doing at the time, spool capacity & drag weight & smoothness are the key points.
Fascinating subject! I constantly learn things from your channel! Thank you!
Excellent information, I have been watching your videos for a while and they seem great, I am an anesthesiologist and I treat covid patients, so going fishing in the afternoons and weekends is the only thing that relaxes me. I really appreciate your advice, greetings from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
2500 are my go to always... i can use it all day and still land decent fish if the reel is quality.
Luke you can be as technical as you can be...i see Luke as Doc Brown and Joe as Marty Mcfly Lol! its refreshing hearing the perspective to a science or engineering level of design of what makes certain reels to be the way they are. I'm an auto technician so thats why i love to hear the nuts and bolts...you guys speak my language. Lighter reels to be is a preference on the style of fishing you're going for. I'd put the reels in certain tiers of what certain fish you're targeting but a preference the most relax way of fishing style. Far casting and finesse light fishing will never be my style and especially of the risk of getting slammed with heavy predator fish under heavy structures. For me will always be 4000 and up. I really enjoy these videos...I always wanted something like this to enlighten me on smaller reels and the reasons of making buying decisions. Thank you guys!
Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment Frankie!
I bought a Quantum Cabo 20 almost 20 years ago. I have caught more nice fish on it and it still performs like new. I have it spooled with 15 lb. suffix 832. I can cast soft plastics a mile. They have not made this reel in 8 years. I was lucky enough to find a Cabo 30 that was still brand new and never used. They dont make them like that anymore!
Thank you for all these informative pod casts. I was attentive to Luke’s reel-to-rod balance segment and purchased the TFO rod. Now I’m looking for a reel to provide that balance. Luke, what reel did you use to demonstrate that one finger test?
I caught a 28 in musky on 10 lb test on a 1000 size diwia spinning reel !!!!!!
I get a few more wind knots with the small reels and casting seems to be a little shorter.. Love the Fuego
I mean I buy 1000 ci's for ultra light setups... my 2000's for bass and larger fish. the 1000's can throw 4lb test all the way down a creek with easy on a 6' 2-piece. I can't get that distance on some of my heavier setups.
Agreed about casting distance and 10 pound braid is equivalent to 2 pound monofilament and I would guess you can cast it really far and strength wise I wouldn’t feel good about it
Copoly and Mono have a lot of drag as well.
Have a Daiwa BG 2000 with 4lb drag all you need.
I was spending a decent time trying to decide between a 2500/3000 Stradic FL. The deciding factor for me was the carbon drag vs felt drag.
The Stradic FL is a great reel.
Get the 3000 if you do alot of saltwater fishing but 2500 can handle specs flounder n slot reds
@@funkymonk36 The 2500 size reels can handle surprisingly big fish... here's a video showing a ~50 lb tarpon getting caught on a 2500 with just 10 lb line: czcams.com/video/K9cJeyjxeFk/video.html
I rely on the 3000 size reels for most every type of fishing. Change spools to heavier line when it's needed.
@@Saltstrong I have 2500 3000 and 4000 all great reels 😄🎣
Fishing off Southern California in the kelp beds around Catalina and Channel Islands, one needs a higher drag. The big Yellowtails, White Sea Bass and some other species will run to the rocks or kelp and they need to be stopped before they try you up. I had 20lbs of drag on my reel and I could not stop one. It may have been a Black Sea Bass (grouper) but I could not stop it. Those smaller drag reels are OK for Calico Bass, Barracuda and some of the smaller predators but it is risky here because you never know what is going to bite in the kelp beds.
It seems that the 2500 point ,, it a sweet spot ,, for most inshore fishing plus with the a quality leader. And appropriate drag,,including for boat inshore fishing ,,thanks guys for a very helpful / very educational video.
Here in japan we have shallow spools no need for backing adds weight to the spool adding mono line.. i use tape around the spool then tie my braid line so it dont slip
Great video, just want to point out G. Loomis is owned by shimano. Gary owns Edge rods now
Love these videos guys keep them coming
I'm so glad that you found the video helpful! We appreciate the support!
I use 1000 series for crappie (fresh water)/speckled trout (tidal rivers and inlets). 4000 series for flounder/striper in the bay and 5000 series for channel cat/cobia and shark.
Thanks for the tip!
Watch RX Angler and MDLR, they will use UL rods with small BFS or 500 size spinning reel and still pull in good slot and decent size bullreds, all u need if ur patient and now how to use ur drag
Good Info! 🔥🔥 We appreciate the support!
I had a cool "Old Man and the Sea" experience yesterday, and it is relevant to this discussion about reel size. I was trolling in the inland water way at the mouth of the Lockwood Folly River (NC) for speckled trout (my trolling motor was on the fritz) with a 7' medium/light spinning rod with a 2500 reel spooled with 10lb. mono pulling a Shad Rap. One of my rods bent over double, and the drag started screaming....I figured I had snagged the bottom so I cut my motor, reeled in the second rod and went to turn the boat around to try to clear the lure. When I looked, the line was no longer behind the boat but 90 degrees to my starboard side. As I tightened my line, it felt like I was snagged on the bottom.....until I felt a sudden tug and whatever was on my line started stripping off 30 yards or so of line. I maneuvered the boat as best I could, following the mystery fish (or being dragged by it is more accurate) for about 10 minutes. At that point a Manta Ray skied about 50 yards off the bow, jumping 5 feet out of the water 3 times before sounding again. The fish was every bit of 6 feet from wing tip to wing tip, and had to weigh in excess of 150 lbs. He dragged me down the waterway almost a mile, jumping 5 more times in the process. I would gain some line on him, and then he would strip twice the line I had gained. He almost spooled me twice, forcing me to chase him down with the motor each time. Then he started to head out of the inlet, and was dragging me in my 15 ' Jon boat. No matter how much pressure I put on him, I could not turn him or tire him. After a 45 minute fight (well actually, it wasn't much of a fight....he had his way with me) I had to cut him off before he dragged me out of the inlet in to open water. Point being that even a 2500 spinning reel with 10 lb. test mono can handle a hell of a large fish if you let the rod do the work and have the drag set properly. I was amazed that I was able to keep this huge fish on the line, that the lure held up and that my knot held.
Those rays are extremely powerful so your knots and tackle passed a very tough test with flying colors given that you had it on for so long.
May I ask what process you used to cut it off?
@@Saltstrong had a pair of braid snips attached to lanyard around my neck.
@@fredc.meekinsjr.5553 That was really cool to read, sounds like an amazing experience.
Thank you for saving me about 10% on my next buys
You mentioned reel weights and two of my reels happened to be sitting close by, my old Mitchel 300 was 12 oz..not too bad, my Penn 750 SS from 1990..1 lb 11 oz or 27 grams..I think I understand why I don't use that reel as much anymore.
Thanks for the feedback!
The only time you need. A lot of drag is if your fishing structure or bottom fishing.
When casting any size spinning reel, if you let your index finger "feather" the line as it flies off the spool, your line will shoot straight into the first guide directly without slapping against the rod shaft and becoming congested as it tries to fit into that first guide. So that really neutralizes the small-coil advantage of a small diameter spool. The main difference will be in inches of line retrieved per handle crank.
Thanks for the feedback!
Hey guys I’m trying to decide which new shimano vanford size reel I should get.. I’m mainly a freshwater fisherman (bass & trout.) I live in Southern California, just couple min drive down to San Clemente and Dana point beach and haven’t fished the ocean in over 15 years lol. I just got into fishing again this last year and have been to scared to use my gear in the saltwater since I don’t really know how to maintenance reels well yet.. I’ve been looking at the 2500 for mainly finesse applications (drop shot, Ned, shaky heads and also jerkbaits) but I’m thinking maybe the 3000 will be a more adequate option if I want to start fishing at the ocean again aswell? I would probabaly only be using it from the jetty if that helps narrow things down. Would the 2500 be plenty for all applications I’ve listed or would a get more out of the 3000? Any help would be greatly appreciated. This channel has taught me so much this last year, I’m extremely greatful for the help and knowledge you all have given me!
I live in SoCal too. For years, I mostly fished 90% freshwater and 10% saltwater from piers. I am now about 50/50 between freshwater and saltwater. If you are thinking Dana Point jetty or San Clemente pier, you will need a bigger reel probably in the 5000 or 6000 series size. If you are fishing from the surf, you can use 2500 or 3000 sized reels. Many guys/gals are using lightweight gear for surf with medium to medium-heavy steelhead rods ranging from 7 to 10 feet. I prefer surf fishing as I can cover a lot more area than fishing from a jetty and pier. Hope to see you out on the surf.
I have always been a fan of 2500 for bass and redfish. I have found adjusting my spinning reels to make the line lay more towards the front of the spool reduces wind knots. All my spinning reels are Shimano, but I am sure you can do this with others. All you do is take away one of the spool shaft washers.
Thanks for the tip!
I have a question medium, heavy fast rod 73 what size reel is recommend for that rod?
2500-3000 size reels will match nicely with that rod!
Great episode gentlemen.
Thank you
I prefer small reels because I was taught to catch snook on 6 lb test with a Penn 430SS at the beach in Sarasota, and ever since then I've wanted to use the lightest tackle that's practical. Light tackle is just more fun.
It is fun to catch them on light tackle! Can lead to heartbreak too. 🤣
My theory is, ultralight fishing is really kinda a thing maybe that's the reason why some people buying the 1000 size.
I love how: Reels do nothing for casting distance; but the reason he didn't like the 1,000 is that it didn't cast as far (as was really surprised that it didn't).
Tighter around smaller spool comes off shorter distance
@@kimloitran1786 It was his reasoning, not mine. He literally said, "Its doesn't make a difference on casting distance." The says it does. So you being right about a tighter spool isn't the win, even though I might agree. Or I might suggest a tighter spool produces less friction & drag . . . I don't know. You pick 'em. (Which was his point until he changed it . . . which was mine).
@@raytbrown2 what does he know lol had 1000 Shimano had get rid of because it was only good short casting. Comes off spool harder make up shorter line distance.
Hi - is there a specific month that new models come out every year? Thanks
You guys are trying to fuel my GAS! subscribed
Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment!
Granted, the rod is important. I want to fish heavy mats and I'm moving to a medium heavy 7'6" rod. The 1000 good enough with bank fishing, 14lb braid, for say 8 lb bass? (Yes, I know you're Salt strong but you're knowledgable and I appreciate that you guys don't blow smoke.) Would love to hear your thoughts.
Would go 2500. Balances better on most 7"6' rods, casts a litte further, less wind knots and higher max brake. Can't see any pro with the 1000 here.
I have a 500 series on a Manta.rod. Which I have dubbed the "mighty mattel " I found this rod when cleaning out a rental unit. It can't cast obviously but was free, has free 6lb mono on it, largest thing I've caught was prob 28to30 red. broke the drag but a great memory. I can still use it for trout. I love seeing how light I can get. I have nooo idea why folks use 4k reel for a 2lb trout.
Surprising 1000 actually can cast further than 3000 😅Thanks information bro
No problem!
The smaller reel is better balanced on a lighter rod guys.Flicking plastics all day on the wrong setups are uncomfortable.
Can you kindly share the spool diameter of your 4000 fuego.. daiwa doesn't seem to care much about sharing their spool sizes.
Thank you for your question! We have a massive library of fishing tips on our website along with a search feature to let you quickly filter down to find help you're looking for, so just go to www.saltstrong.com/ and use the Search feature in the top menu.
Forgive me if I missed it, but what rod and reel are you using?
Thanks for your question! Make sure to ask this over on the actual blog or in the Community (www.saltstrong.com/) where the coaches spend their time. The blog can be found here:
bit.ly/37Spo5p
The new 4000 size reels from Shimano and Daiwa weigh very little and generate less wind knots than smaller reels
Thanks for sharing!
Good video...👍
How many feet of leader to you guys prefer for inshore fishing with 20lb braid for flounder Jigging with a bucktail with Gulp and inshore fishing?
6-12 inches
18" to 30" i feel is a very realistic leader length. The whole reason for mono or fluorocarbon reader is to "hide" the line from the fish. So, the more leader, the farther the bait/lure is from the line. But leaders over 30" are a pain to cast, and knots can damage rod guide/tip rings.
Sorry, but you're giving dad (like old man) information, today's spools are braid ready.
Some spools are braid ready with the rubber lining. but a lot of them still are all metal. Either way, I start with mono to same money in filling the bottom of the spool with the much less expensive mono.
Can the Stradic FL 1000hg size reels hold up against big snook? I have a 6’7 Medium Heavy rod I want to pair up with the 1k Stradic / 10lb braid to use for sight casting light 1/8-1/16oz ned rigs at big snook in cover. Would the 1K be a good option?
Great question! Make sure to ask this over on the actual blog or in the Community (www.saltstrong.com/) where the coaches spend their time. The blog can be found here: bit.ly/37Spo5p
Using a medium heavy rod to cast Ned rigs isn't gonna work well. Use a medium to medium light fast action rod, and a 2000-2500 sized reel
I can imagine that the shortage in gear coming from manufacturers during covid as caused people to at least look at 1000 reels because they are available.
I plan on buying one because of size and weight. My most used reel is a 2500 and I want to go smaller.
No, a 1000 size reel does not cast further than a 3000 size reel: do your research
Bought a 1000 to try, and it was a wind knot machine. Haven't had a wind knot in at least 2 years, and threw at least 6 in the first day of the 1000. Needless to say, the 1000 is now a paperweight.
I had a lot of trouble with that initially. Springy line. I asked my tackle shop for the limpest braid available. No problem since.
Yes try a New line and put it on differently, a 1000 shouldn't be that problematic...
Change your line go with a braid
yep bigger diamater casts farther, that is why I use 1000 series for UL smaller reels dont cast as far
Thanks for the feedback and for watching!
It’s been ten months, how is the 1000 ?
25:03 This is absolutely true.
I have a 63 year old neighbour who has 1000 and 2500 reels, he spools them with 6lb mono only on both reels and catches some donkey sized fish in the estuary, up river and in shore.
The 1000 reel is paired with a 6.6ft medium light rod and the 2500 is paired with a 7ft medium rod.
Personally my fave pairing would have to be a 3000 stradic with 10lb braid and a light 7ft rod.
I prefer braid over mono because I have seen what happens to mono when it finds a river monster, half a spool of stretched mono is never cool, but I guess the story behind it is lol.
Thanks so much for sharing!
I think it ends up to what you like !!!!!
Very true
2 pound test fishing like that has been made obsolete in a lot of places... Sharks will eat up your fish if you don't get it in the boat.
i have an okuma epixor 30 that is much closer to 1000 size shimano that i really like. But yet, wind knots do occur much more on this reel than my 2500 or 4000 size reels. Drives me insanne.
A bigger reel 4000 will cast further than a small 1000 any day.
The longer and bigger spool allow for freer, smoother cast.
The gent or the left is the john wick of fishing👍🏻
Not true, the spool lip On a spinning reel plays a huge part in casting distance...
Can u give salt strong T shirt please?
People do use to large tackle
I ended up with the Daiwa 8000 BG, on account of the fact the 4500 cost $20 more.. market was weird over the summer.
Line capacity too low and groupers and mutton’s are gonna mess you up with 3lbs of drag also for bass fishing I end up retying so much would just prefer the xtra capacity and little heavier line
your not grouper fishing with 10lb test...
I will always prefer the lightest reel I can use for the given condition. Not for casting distance... but for weight. I will be able to feel all bites much better.
Same reason I only use braid these days.
That being said... being a cheap bastard trumps all. I have some 2500s and a few large reels. That's it! I did LOVE my old 1000 but it finally bit the dust. I used it until it worked no more.
You're casting distance was one and a 1/2 to 3' difference over a 100 yds, if I remember correctly, that is almost an insignificant difference and in this discussion you are playing it like it's more important than it was.
The only significant finding in the casting test was that the smaller spool didn't cast farther... I was assuming it would since there's so much hype about the importance of the rod's guides to minimize the coiling rotation of the line as it's shooting out.
10lb braid tests much higher than the label.
Bigger spoll=longer cast
Is that always the case? Or is there a sweet spot where the line can shoot off the spool and through the rod guides most efficiently?
@@Saltstrong always the case, the bigger the spool is less coils will come off, and then then the guides can easyer straighten them out
@@lassebrun84 So a 10' (yes being facetious) will cast better than a 40mm arbor? No, so there is a sweet spot.
Smaller the guides the further it will cast the line comes off straight!!!!!!
Looks like there in the same room
Rocket science?😂
Are all reels manufactured in like 'series"? I use a Penn Battle 5000, how does it compare to a 1000, 2000, or 3000 of your series? Beginning your video should explain what you're comparing not technicalities of preferred drag settings. One spokesman, one subject and get to the point.
So you can use a 3000 series for surf fishing with this logic?
I use a van stall Vr50 and that’s basically a 3000 in the surf.
Well dang guys, I might ditch the inshore 3000 series ci4+ I have for a 1000 series and make the 3000 series my new surf setup! I absolutely love lightweight setups when on land
I think a typical 1000 series has a slower rate of retrieve even if the ratio is the same as the 3000 due to the smaller diameter spool. Depending on the lure I’m retrieving, this is a huge factor sometimes.
@@curtmitchell5933 I have a 8:1 baitcaster for stuff like that. My inshore spinner is really dedicated to the 1/8th jigged swimbaits and Vudu shrimp.
Who uses 10 pound braid
A "10 lb" braid is much stronger than just 10 lbs... a good knot should get it closer to 20 lb of tension before it breaks. The 10 lb line has a big advantage for those of us who need long casts to get to spooky fish up in the shallows. Here's a video showing a 10 lb line catching a 40+ inch snook even with an out of control dog on board: www.saltstrong.com/articles/catch-big-fish-on-light-line/
@@Saltstrong I do use 15 pound braid on one reel
Not to sound like a Dummy but how do you set your drag to the point you are talking about. I always fished in fresh water (bass) with bait casting reels, until moving to FL. I set the drag by feel. With spinning reels it seems like it would be more important to hit that point you are talkin’ about...
Shimano sienna 3000
Is like a 1000 size
Thanks for sharing!
Why does everyone love spinning an new empty reel LOL
It's satisfying.
well i think its a sells tactic. 1000,2000,3000,4000,5000,6000,7000,8000 haha when a 4000 will do everything. But people think they need it all hahaha
No way you catch a 400lb+ fish on 2 pound line
🤣🤣
Its all on the real for instance if you get a combo from ugly stick spinning real you will get wind knots i have a 1000 liews spinning real on a diowa rod with 10lb power pro braid with a 8lb leader and I can cast small lures and dont get any wind knots
Oh so it’s all about the distance, bullshit it’s about the spices of fish your after! Example how far do you cast for halibut or bluegill lol! What about spool hight try a 3000 Vanford compared to your Diawa! And yes it’s about how the rod loads up if your after distance! But fishing halibut with a 3lb weight and a circle hook you don’t set the hook just lift and wind! It’s all about the spices! Y’all have tunnel vision!!
They are all about Florida fishing
Rob b yes you’re correct but it seems to be all about Diawa reels as well and that’s suspect to me!
@@smokenjoe4022 yeah I know what u mean
Put a strip of electrical tape on the arbur it won't slip
Fewer coils going through the guides equates to fewer moments of friction on said guides.
Thanks for the tip!