Salmon/halibut reel

Bill,
Which model of Abu did you find in a 6600? The *600 means it has the thumb bar instead of the *500 which has the button. I have seen that C4's are available as 5600's but not 6600's and the C3's only have the 4600 otherwise they are 5500 and 6500.  I also get the left hand retrieve models which leads to even fewer options. I really like the thumbar on my 4601 C3 and would love to have a left hand retrieve, 6601 size reel with the thumbar release. Is there a way to convert them? Thanks

Just found the Abu Garcia CB models on Cabelas and they have a 6601 thumbar and left hand retrieve for $75. The Abu site doesn't list this model except under schematics. This reel has 6.3:1 gears verses 5.3:1 in the C3 models. I believe on most of the saltwater reels I've seen they have ratios down around 4 or so. Has anybody noticed a real difference with gear ratios. It seems like pulling up big lings or halibut, especially sturgeon you might need that lower gear ratio for more power. I think the higher ratios are to get better action out of fast retrieve lures for bass. Also are the bushings verses bearings that big of a deal? I would suppose if you were to be casting a lot they would but for a rod where you simply drop 'em down I would imagine it's not quite as important. Thanks

I'll say the Shimano still the best from Mountain bike parts all the way to fishing gear... they're great...

Kiel :

I bought my calcutta in 94 and it's still a great reel.  I would highly recommend this one.  It's a versatle reel and will last for a many years.  I also went to Alan Tani's Reel repair seminar and updated the bushings.

JD

I own a Baitrunner 4500 & 6500 and Calcutta and just like a Energizer keep going and going and going...


Kiel

David,
I don’t think the higher retrieve will cause much of an issue for salmon or butts, because you won’t be powering them in.  Instead you’ll usually play them out (unless a seal is coming).

The calcutta’s are smoother than the abu’s, but cost roughly 2x, depending on the size.  I’d get what your budget allows.  

Stuart

I still have a couple Shimano Corvalus reels available ... any takers?

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=1700

I'll say that the Cardiffs I had were some dang nice little reels... and judging by how fast people snapped them up... others thought the same.  

I'd say the Corvalus is a good option if you are looking at something in the Abu 6500 price range.

Erik