Salmon Trolling/Downrigger rod/reel

I'm looking for a new rod/reel for downrigger/trolling salmon setup using all-mono 20-30# line. I'm thinking an avet raptor 2 speed reel, but I have no idea what to use as far as rods go. I have a Ugly Tiger 25-50, Trevala M and H. I know those would work but i'd like a good one.

It's going to be dual purpose for downrigger fishing and trolling with a deep diver / flasher combo. I'm not sure what makes a good salmon rod. Probably in the $100-200 range.

I use a 9' Lamiglas Classic Glass CG90DR rod paired with an Abu Garcia Record 6601.

LOVE this rod. Do a little Googling and you'll see I'm not alone. I use it with a downrigger and also to pull divers. I wouldn't recommend this rod if you want to troll with 2-3 lb lead balls on a release. But there's really no need to drop lead into the ocean anyway...

I also love the Abu Garcia Record. My only complaint is I wish it had a faster retrieve.

Personally, would highly recommend a level wind reel for salmon fishing. When a salmon runs straight at you, you need to be able to reel REALLY fast to keep up (hence my complaint about the Abu). You don't want to be worrying about laying line evenly as you would with a conventional reel.


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You really don't need a 2 speed reel for salmon. I'd say that's overkill. You mostly just want a nice smooth drag.


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The Shimano Tekota is probably the most popular salmon reel, but they don't make it in LH retrieve...


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The Shimano Tekota is probably the most popular salmon reel, but they don't make it in LH retrieve...

I like the Tekota for all around use. It's also fairly easy to service yourself,, if you're into that sort of thing. The only possible downside is that the retrieve is a bit slow---if a salmon runs at you, you'll be cranking like mad to keep up...

Kinda old school but go pull on a Calstar or Seeker 196 7' and see what you think. Not super expensive but very durable and versatile.

The Seeker has a softer tip but costs a bit more. They are light enough to have fun with but also heavy enough to drag a 2# ball if you need to. Also good for live bait halibut or Ling fishing if you want. Sturgeon too if you like that sort a thing which I personally don't. Great for fishing live chovies on the slide for albacore too if you ever jump on a charter boat.

-Eliot

I'm thinking an avet raptor 2 speed reel, but I have no idea what to use as far as rods go.

maybe for trolling for cow size tuna.  that would be overkill for chrome.

if you want avet, go with single speed SX.

i just use my old calcutta and trevala ML with dd6.  i've used a trevala M with lead balls (not ideal but it works for the rare times i use lead).  sometimes i use my lexa 300 reel.  definitely get a high speed reel though.

Oops just noticed you want a reel too.

Check out the Shimano Charter Special 1000. I've been using one for the last couple years for salmon trolling and been very happy. Reasonably priced at about $125 and lever drag with a level wind makes for a good reel. Plenty of power to drag balls and or the occasional kelp snag to the boat but still a fast enough retrieve to kee up with a hot fish.

These or the TLD 15/30 are great bulletproof reels that hold up well and won't break the bank.

-Eliot

I'm never going to do the lead ball release thing so I don't need something that can do a 2-3 pound lead. It's either DR or Diver.

Thanks for the tip on the two speed. For some reason I read that was perfect for salmon. I probably missed some context.

I have an Ambassadeur 6601 but I'd like an Avet. Leaning towards the Lamiglas suggestion as far as rods go.

Thanks all

Go with an Avet SX 5.3. Smaller than the mxl 5.3 and bigger than the SXJ. Buddy of mine has the SX and had it out when we were trolling salmon and it fit the 8ft trolling rod perfect. My other buddy has the SXJ and a little too small for my liking. SX 5.3 is what you want.

An Avet on the Classic Glass would be a nice setup it you're comfortable with conventional vs. level wind. I really like my Avet SXL. My "spare rod" when I'm out salmon fishing is a 7' M Ugly Stick Tiger with the Avet. Actually caught a couple of my biggest salmon on that setup.


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Nothing wrong with a two-speed ree. Yes, you want a fast retrieve when you're pulling on fish like wahoo and yellowtail. However, high retrieve rate comes in handy when you need to reel in line in a hurry, for whatever reason.