High End Reels! Have You Tried One?

[@LowBrowFishing]

So what I'm hearing is clearance and closeout prices for Revo reels?! Oh boy!!! Dibs on that Rocket!!!

[@generalprobiotic7487]

The rocket is on the list

[@chrishampton8842]

I’ve got one you can buy!

[@MattStefanFishing]

yep lots of big sales going on

[@billreed3785]

Im not sure high end, but all my baitcasters are Lew's & bass pro... and the Hypermag is by far the best out of the ones I have.

[@MattStefanFishing]

nice!

[@chrisboyd1408]

Many years ago, my grandfather and dad used the Mitchell 300 series spincast reels and they were exceptionally made and seemed to last forever.

[@MattStefanFishing]

i still see lots of people using the mitchell 300

[@mikeeller557]

I never had any luck with abu Garcia years ago. been a lews man now. I do switch out the bearings.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for sharing!

[@rigorocks23]

ive been using the abu garcia silver max for bass fishing over 2 years here in south florida.its my throw in the back of the truck and leave it there year round rain or shine. i have not cleaned it once.just change line every couple months.feels as good as day 1 in my opinion. best $40 ive ever seen spent

[@MattStefanFishing]

they are tough reels!

[@joffrechampagne7908]

I've got 2 Shimano scorpion DC's and love 'em

[@MattStefanFishing]

those are good ones!

[@twiggsherman3641]

Highest end reel I had was a Lews Hypermag. I ended up selling it. It was light and cast light-weight baits well, but the level wind was always uneven and it wasn't that smooth of a retrieve. My favorite reel is my Curado 200k. I replaced the spool with a Scorpion MGL spool from Japan so it casts much better, but its the finger on butter smoothness that I really like. Any reel I get has to have that same feeling now that I'm used to it.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Thanks for sharing!

[@RocketDaryl]

Just for clarification, did you only change the spool, or did you upgrade the bearings too? Thanks!

[@twiggsherman3641]

@@RocketDaryl stock bearings. It was already smooth before I added the new spool.

[@RocketDaryl]

@@twiggsherman3641 Thank you!

[@twiggsherman3641]

@@RocketDaryl I have a Scorpion MGL as well I imported from Japan, and its not nearly as smooth. I'd suggest you see them in person if you can, you can usually tell immediately if its going to be a smooth reel or not. Unfortunately I couldn't do that with the Scorpion.

[@hokep61]

Still using my trusty old Ambassador 5000c's. Not near as fancy as the new stuff, but I got my first baitcaster back in mid 50's. Learning how to "thumb" a reel was a must. I picked out hundreds of bird nests of braided dacron, till I finally got the hang of it!

[@MattStefanFishing]

built well!

[@lightningmusky5286]

I use some JDM bass reels. Abu LTZ is one of my favorites with the ceramic bearings and supertuning out of the factory.

[@MattStefanFishing]

very cool!

[@samuelschult985]

Matt I got a funny one for you, but first awesome looking reel and I take your word but I still fish with my older one's like; Bantam-100 Mag from Shimano, how much you want for your older used reels that is how I could probably afford upgrading 👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what you have confidence in

[@rodlinvon-hugenstine5142]

I have a few stupid reels (Calcutta conquest 200HG & ryoga 1016H) love em to death!! … would never think to go to Abu for a tank reel, until I picked up a Zata (bait caster). The Zata is absolutely amazing for what you get for the money! It’s affordable. Thing has been to hell and back with me. Fishing swamps and marsh’s for BIG snakehead and BIG largemouth is hell on gear. That thing takes the pain with a smile. Such being said, I will 100% try Abu’s higher end reels. Stoked to do so

[@MattStefanFishing]

they are great reels!

[@erichildreth7562]

These look really nice! I have some of the Revo Winch reels, I really like the lower gear ratios for crankbaits - the Winch series works great for me! Great video Matt!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Glad you like them!

[@bassman6211]

I'm in love with my metanium but the zillion is hard to put down. I recommend both. I'm seriously considering getting the zenon ltx from Japan. The tackle monkey loves shiny new gear. Lol

[@MattStefanFishing]

give it a try!

[@Chillin24Seven]

I’m a musky guy and the revo beast is a nice reel. Buddy just got one this year. I rock an Okuma Komodo SS 463.

[@MattStefanFishing]

i use the revo beasts for musky

[@RocketDaryl]

I love Garcia reels. I think they're great and great value, but I don't have the high dollar ones. They'd need to remove one of the numbers left of the decimal to grab my attention because I have to buy mine, lol. I have 2 Black Maxx that I LOVE. They may be cheap, but I think they're a great reel for the money. I also have a Jordan Lee signature That I like a lot. I *think* they're all 6.4:1. I like those for slow to medium retrieves. I have some Lews with faster retrieves that I like. Honestly, I'd be scared to try a $500 reel. I might love it and then do something stupid like go into debt to get one. Kidding! I wouldn't do that, but I would be afraid I would not like using my reels anymore.

[@MattStefanFishing]

it can definitely get expensive and they are not for everyone

[@williamfaragher3671]

The tricked out, old ABU BFS reels are really cool ! I am not a tournament angler. My next reel will be a Shimano BFS. Just for tossing finesse top waters for smallmouth and stick baits for night walleyes. Have been addicted to top water fishing smallmouth bass and fishing night walleyes for 40 years. The anti strike feeling you get when a walleye hits a floating Rapala at night is one of my greatest joy s in fishing. Bill

[@MattStefanFishing]

Nice!!

[@williamfaragher3671]

Anti strike When the vibration of your lure stops abruptly causing slack line... Set the hook !

[@brandonmerideth5450]

You know what would be awesome if they made a reel that had like a toggle to change ratios similar to a mountain bike how you can change gears if a reel had that so I could change depending on my bait and retrieve style that would be super useful

[@MattStefanFishing]

that would be cool!

[@kevinpitts3548]

I just bought an X from academy for 209! Can't wait to try it out!

[@MattStefanFishing]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@josephenglish8663]

OK Matt, just ordered one to try.

[@MattStefanFishing]

You'll love it!

[@Cornelius798]

I still have my Shimano Curado Bantam 201B5. I bought it many years ago and what sold me it was the only left handed retrieve casting reel at the store. Unfortunately, 2 years ago my casting rod broke so I'm looking for a replacement.

[@MattStefanFishing]

bummer

[@brianbochow]

I used to only use Pflueger reels both baitcasters and spinning reels..The baitcasters were predominately 6:4:1 and 7:0:1...However I am changing my 6x baitcasters to Daiwa Tatulas geared from 5:4:1 for spinnerbaiting to 8:1:1 for burning lipless crankbaits...My 6x Spinning reels are staying in the Pflueger range even though Pflueger is not representive within Australia anymore...regards B.J.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for sharing!

[@brianbochow]

Sorry mate i made a boo boo...The lowest geared Tatula i got is actually 5:8:1 instead of what i stated earlier...Still though its still a nice speed for colorado bladed spinnerbaits and deep diving crankbaits...

[@terrytresemer2864]

I've always wondered why they haven't put on larger cranks! Glad I'm in good company.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thise are big flippers haha!

[@shawn_r_schultzfishing4883]

I mainly have Tatula's, got one for a father's day when they first came out and it's all I've bought since.

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you

[@stevespayde1919]

Hi Shawn question about the Tatulas I have one works fine over hand casting but I have lots of problems side casting like skipping getting in under tree's have any tips on what I'm missing I use my revo for skipping now

[@shawn_r_schultzfishing4883]

@@stevespayde1919 all I usually do is adjust the tension on the spool till there is just a little bit of play and then adjust the brake for the size of the lure and they have been great.

[@Whitehalo117]

Shimano and Daiwa just corner that high end market. It's hard to recommend something over $300 that isn't a Bantam, Zillion, Metanium B, Steez A/SV, Aldebaran, or Anteres A.

[@MattStefanFishing]

i really feel like shimano has lost its edge on the other high end reels IMO

[@heinrichkellogg7563]

🍺I’m sure every brands high end reels don’t suck. With that said, I’m sticking with my Antares, Aldebarans, and Metaniums. I see no reason to even think about changing the gear that has worked flawlessly for me. WARNING: once you fish and or start buying/using high end rod and reels, you will never go back.🤑

[@MattStefanFishing]

they are addicting!

[@RocketDaryl]

That's exactly why I don't even look at high dollar gear. I'm retired and on a nice, but fixed, income. I'm not interested in calling my financial advisor and telling him to start sending me more money. lol

[@richardporter1455]

I've tapped out at $300 for a reel so far. Will need to check these out l don't have any Abu reels yet.

[@MattStefanFishing]

these are good ones!

[@kevinbeaudean704]

I tapped out at $300 a combo. With sales and military discount I can stretch it but there is reliable gear, tournament quality at that price. I whup up on the G.loomis bunch enough to keep me happy.

[@erniebrightfishing]

Matt. The dude strolling by in the back had me laughing. And secondly I'll take all your old revo's for half price lol. Thanks for another video man. Have a good day

[@MattStefanFishing]

haha! Im keeping my revos!

[@stuartcarter944]

The spool looks shallow, which is something I like in a reel. I fill half my spool with braid backing anyway, so why not make a shallow spool so I only have to put 75 - 100 yards of line on to begin with? Like it a lot

[@MattStefanFishing]

i agree

[@harryestep2488]

Getting out of the weekend angler budget range for a baitcaster. Does look like a slick reel. Have you decided what trail if you are fishing next year? Thanks for your work on the KZbin!

[@MattStefanFishing]

yep ill be doing a video soon

[@Bastikovski99]

I just bought an Abu Garcia Max Pro and I’m psyched to try it out.

[@MattStefanFishing]

youll love it!

[@Afewnumbersandletters]

Welp I guess my next one is going to be the zenon. It looks really good. I'm a curado guy,I love em. A word of advice to anyone that needs it I bought an slx dc thinking it would be smooth like my curados. It's terrible and so rough that I don't even use it. Anyway, thanks for the video Matt

[@MattStefanFishing]

worth a try!

[@citydogpack]

I have a medium heavy Zenon baitcasting rod with a Zenon mgx reel. So light it feels like it’s made out of spaceship material. Extremely sensitive too. Honestly speaking it’s more impressive that my high end gloomis and shimano gear

[@MattStefanFishing]

Its an impressive reel!

[@greenpighunter6930]

Yes.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for watching

[@jwill227]

Hey Matt - does this reel feel cheap in hand? I know it’s super light and the finish of the reel looks matte/dull. I’ve heard a small portion of reviews saying it feels cheap. Thanks! I love the look of it - might grab one for throwing plastics

[@MattStefanFishing]

I love mine!

[@johnbutler307]

Thanks for the great video

[@MattStefanFishing]

You bet

[@johnrayner5599]

Those are super nice but a little more higher end than I use, Im a Johnny Morris Platinum type guy, they hold up well and meet my needs but if ever I would go up in reels I would check these out.

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you!

[@chundle09]

Would you consider selling any of your old revo reels once you get your new ones in?

[@MattStefanFishing]

ive only got a few of the new ones. im still using my revos

[@MrJohnB-qs6dp]

Nice reels but a little out of my budget. Maybe if they go on sale I would try & get one. Thanks for sharing!! Stay Safe & God Bless!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

sales are a good thing!

[@wolverinex4243]

Matt, are the Zenons made for finesse? I want to throw 6 inch lures and such. They say the LTX is for finesse? I don't want a finesse reel, but it's able to throw both light and heavy tackle, I might get one.

[@MattStefanFishing]

they are not BFS per say but very much capable of throwing light baits and big baits

[@chrisboyd1408]

What are your thoughts on the Johnnie Morris Signature reels? Bass Pro has a few nice "tournament" series ones.

[@MattStefanFishing]

i think the johnny morris rods and reels are great for the price point. high end but dont break the bank

[@nicandre7943]

Hey Matt I’m fairly new to using a baitcastor and I was wondering what you would recommend for an all around reel around the $100 range that works good for a little of everything i.e; cranks, frogs, topwater like whooper plopper, spinners, chatterbaits, etc. going on a 7’ Abu Garcia med/hev?? Thanks for all your tips, tricks, and content, much appreciated man!!

[@bassman6211]

You really can't go wrong with any of shimano Daiwa or Abu Garcia for any price

[@jamesh7469]

Tatula CT, SLX, Revo X

[@MattStefanFishing]

i like this one in that price range www.tacklewarehouse.com/Abu_Garcia_REVO_X_Gen_4_Casting_Reel/descpage-SSRX.html?from=MSFG

[@nicandre7943]

@@MattStefanFishing awesome man!! Thank you! I’ll definitely pick one up!!

[@leepao6302]

I’m a Shimano guys so Abu reels doesn’t really appeals to me, I’ve owned the Shimano: Antares mgl, Antares DC, Metanium, Metanium DC, Calcutta Conquest and Calcutta Conquest DC

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what you have confidence in

[@kevinmoore7710]

Replacing the Revo Rocket with the Zenon Zinger? Zenon Zippy?

[@MattStefanFishing]

haha

[@chrishampton8842]

My MGX’s are the best reels I’ve used and I’ve used all major brands in my 50 years of bass fishing

[@MattStefanFishing]

I love the mGX

[@bigguy7618]

Are the Zatas hanging around Matt?

[@MattStefanFishing]

yes they are

[@bigguy7618]

@@MattStefanFishing Thank you

[@pdp83]

What Abu reel would be be similar to a Curado K, Revo SX? I've noticed the discounts on the Revo's, but the Revo X that I own is not really my favorite $100 reel and I prefer my SLX reels over it. Also not sure I can justify $300+ on a reel myself being a weekend warrior at this point, but maybe some day.

[@MattStefanFishing]

I think the Revo AL-F is comparable to the SLX

[@richardmajewski3815]

Outside of the handle size which I think is a great improvement, I'll stay with my REVO STX models that have been very reliable and have kept me wanting to stay with them. I really don't think the fish care what you are using for a reel and for me, as long as the drag is solid and I keep them cleaned lubricated on a regular basis I'll save the money for gas.

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you!

[@bamadondon0495]

That sucks the Revo's are going.. those have a been my staple reels for YEARS! All of them

[@MattStefanFishing]

the zenons are even better!

[@rippinlipsinc.2200]

I thought Shimano Tranx was the high end for Pros!??? Guess it depends on your sponsor on what high end you choose!!! I prefer Quantum but not yet sponsored. Have mostly Quantum. Drive, Accurist, Smoke, Vapor,Pulse and Throttle!! Accurist is best for the money, Smoke is high end!! Great video as always Matt! Shout out RippinLipsinc and watch my videos as well!

[@MattStefanFishing]

i would say most pros do not use shimano

[@bicalijd_pierfishing9652]

Hello I have a question what Abu Garcia bait caster reel and rod do you recommend for Pier fishing 🎣 I have a Abu Garcia black max with a Abu Garcia vengeance 7foot medium havey bait caster rod and I also have a Abu Garcia black max on a medium havey Zebco Rhino Tough Glowtip Casting Fishing Rod with Heavy Duty Guides, EVA Foam Handle I would love to buy this Abu Garcia bait caster reel 👍🏼🔥

[@MattStefanFishing]

i would reach out to abu garcia so they can provide you with the best rod for the type of fishing you are doing.

[@bicalijd_pierfishing9652]

@@MattStefanFishing hello happy fishing Saturday thank you very much my friend I truly appreciate it happy Fishing 🎣

[@johnhipp164]

If it is in the budget enjoy. I can't but still gonna fish no matter what. Have several Black Max, a Max Z and one Lews not sure of the line. All under $75. My time on the water let's just say that is where I find the other $150 of value to be.

[@MattStefanFishing]

sounds good!

[@RocketDaryl]

I'm right there with you. 2 Black Maxx, a Jordan Lee, 2 Lews.

[@timothyturner2165]

What are your recommendations for reels in the budget category? Say at or under $100?

[@MattStefanFishing]

i really like the abu garcia max reels

[@wolverinex4243]

See Matt, videos like this is what interest me. I already know how to fish. I don't really want to her someone beckering about fishing. I just want info on things I don't know or the advancement of the sport/art. With that said, great video here. I don't always compliment people, but videos like this are awesome.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thank you

[@CrazyCranker]

If you find something you like, always buy two of them. I have two JDM Abu Powercranks, two Beasts and three 07 JDM Zillion Crazy Crankers. They don't make em like they use to. :)

[@MattStefanFishing]

agreed!

[@rodcashman4793]

O my sounds great however on very low income I couldn't afford any of them. Thank you for sharing 📹 👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

I understand

[@Liz_Zervos]

Could have picked up a demon for >$100 six months ago. Passed because I’ve never thrown Abu. Let alone Lews.

[@MattStefanFishing]

bummer

[@lanehensley3271]

Your breaking my heart Matt, no more revos. Some of my favorites. Like my mgx got it on clearance. Got any lefties you want to get rid of let me know. Tight lines.

[@MattStefanFishing]

i love my lefty MGX!

[@maxcole3930]

What's a high end reel to you & price point you won't go over?? High end to me is $200-275 range. I can't bring myself to pay more than that? Have couple diawa's, shimanos's in that range that are awesome. Also have that revo x spinning reel from your giveaway & it is also a great reel, actually for price that it comes in at Its excellent & I use it every trip.

[@MattStefanFishing]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@eyre1720]

I cant break the $200 limit for a reel. I like nice things but …………

[@Visper-nr9nf]

Greetings to all, if somebody can give me some advice? I'm thinking of buying a xenon x or Lew's bb1 pro... I have a Daiwa Rood 10-42 gr ...Most of the 10-40 gr baits... I fish from the shore and I don't know if the bb1 can throw lighter baits10-40 gr Thanks for yours help

[@MattStefanFishing]

I cant speak to the Lew's bb1 but I can tell you the Zenon X is fantastic and casts finesse presentations very well. Aby Garcia has taken their reels up a big notch with these!

[@Visper-nr9nf]

@@MattStefanFishing Thank you👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Visper-nr9nf]

Hello Math I bought the Zenon x and I really like it, I haven't tested it in Sweden, there is snow and ice, but I can't wait to go out on the water... I have the lures from 10-42 gr and I hope that all weights in between can be thrown for the Zenon x. .. Thanks👍🏼😇

[@jeffreypennekamp7101]

So you must have Revos for sale

[@MattStefanFishing]

im not selling mine

[@fysh1945]

Sounds like you have made a decision to do tourney fishing next year?

[@MattStefanFishing]

yep

[@wolverinex4243]

I like Daiwas. I still think Shitmano is better built. For the zing sound and standard quality, I'll take that Korean Kistler...you know, matt bc the shine gets scratchy. As a short time user of bcs, the art and technology needs a long way to go in terms of maximum potential. They're never going to be perfected....but they can improve upon them. Hopefully, the Hakai, Zillion, and Zenon can be the first to lead the pack.

[@MattStefanFishing]

shimano used to be light years ahead. but now the top of the line reels of the other companies are every bit as good IMO

[@chrisduffy2737]

Kast King and other inexpensive reel seller are driving the older reel companies like Abu outta the low-end market. It will take about a decade to see how it all shakes out.

[@kevinbeaudean704]

Shimano SLX series is here to stay.

[@MattStefanFishing]

interesting

[@artvandelay418]

I agree. The value for the money is outstanding.

[@Cjmm007]

I love my Daiwa zillion

[@Cjmm007]

Although zenon looks cool

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you!

[@randyoakes7238]

They are very good reels I'm sure. But over my budget.

[@MattStefanFishing]

its a luxury item for sure

[@Triple87]

I just got 3 new reels. I can’t afford anymore right now. 😂

[@MattStefanFishing]

3 sounds good to me

[@wolverinex4243]

Here's the problem with Abu reels in general. On the lower models, the spool loses its integrity and the handles grind. On the higher models like ALF, they don't even ast far....and they seemed too light for big fish. The lightest reel on the market also holds less line. This means any company can achieve the same result by decrease spool size and using "spaceship" technologies and materials. Better to just buy a Hakai, but that company has never been known for quality so it remains to seen just like this Zenon. Someone enlighten me.

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for sharing!

[@arocosadventures724]

Have a Curado 151 DC HG (Not high end thogh) and as a Swede it hurts to say SHIMANO whoops ABU in my opinion… Know you are a ABU representative though…

[@MattStefanFishing]

i honestly think the new Abu reels are everybit as good as shimano now. shimano used to be far superior over the other brands but their are several high end baitcasters now that compare great.

[@MONGO573]

for 350 get a steez from digitaka much better reel imho

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for watching

[@clintperry799]

I love my $69.95 Lews ! 🙂

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you!

[@astrophysicistguy]

While I’m sure that $500 is nice but there is no way I’d ever spend that kind of money on a bass baitcasting reel. In addition to a couple of35 yr old Shimanos, all my reels are from 13 Fishing at about $100-$150. Since I’ve literally never had a reel failure issue when bass fishing so I can’t see any reason use anything else. Maybe if I bass fished 250 days a year I’d feel different but relatively inexpensive reels & rods allow me to have 20 outfits in my boat so i don’t have to constantly re rig when fishing …

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you!

[@astrophysicistguy]

@@MattStefanFishing kinda like owning a Ferrari, it would be nice but my Nissan Pathfinder does the same thing, just costs $200k less 😬

[@dudleyscott9930]

Not in my Walmart budget. Really don't think the fish really care.

[@MattStefanFishing]

fish dont care. its a luxury

[@kevinbeaudean704]

Thanks Matt. That's like eating potato chips, yah can't have just one. Every time I buy a rod or reel that's better than the rest of my gear I go through a upgrade phase.(I am seeking help). Thanks for teasing me , I hope you backlash. Just kidding.

[@MattStefanFishing]

haha! agreed

[@robertveith2571]

I know you're going to get on me but watched Hank Parker and he always used a round bait casters I use a Calcutta 250 GTB. I also have a red Abu Garcia round reel I don't really like the low profile reels you see I don't use breaks I just tighten the spool enough to get the play out and I like gold !!!!!

[@MattStefanFishing]

stick with what works for you

[@williamknight5142]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@MattStefanFishing]

thanks for watching

[@stinkyfish6175]

Is it just me, or are they starting to make them look like shimano?

[@MattStefanFishing]

they have a newer sleak look!

[@eyre1720]

Looks like a beauty……..Too rich for my blood though.

[@MattStefanFishing]

they are pricey

[@leepao6302]

Just received a scam message from your video

[@MattStefanFishing]

i hope you reported them

[@dennishodson990]

Sorry, cut this video short. Reels are way over priced.

[@MattStefanFishing]

no worries