2025 ULTRALIGHT Reel Buying Guide (by i_fish)

[@ifishcatfish]

I managed to cut a few minutes and the video went from 42 min last year to 30 min this year, without missing anything at all. These reviews are not like the fishing videos that I just publish. I put many days preparing and editing these things and if you want to show gratitude, a thumbs-up actually counts! Just saying.. : )

[@armandorjusino]

That was a very well thought out and exceptionally well presented video, your output is always more than welcome.

[@davidrauschenbach6871]

Thanks for the price and model breakdowns. Video flowed great! Hopefully you can get out this weekend!

[@FishWithDarrel]

This is basically Ultralight Reel Super Bowl for me 😂

[@ifishcatfish]

thanks, buddy!

[@brianaranzanso5641]

😂

[@RonMTube]

Victor, you were the first KZbinr I ever saw who understood that ultralight reels had different requirements to be good than bass reels did. Used to make me crazy watching the other guys complain about this or that, never realizing their points were irrelevant when you're using 4# and lighter line. Keep up the good work.

[@armandorjusino]

The good and bad rules had me going for good, now seriously, this wisdom filled videos are immensely valuable. If you follow this and the many other UL recommendations portrayed in this channel you will become an UL fishing specialist, I did and it sure greatly paid off. I also think there will be a new version of the Presso reel line coming soon.

[@ifishcatfish]

My hint in the last seconds of the video

[@danspanos]

Excellent buying guide, Victor! I look forward to these every year. I picked up the Vanquish 1000sspg per your recommendation, and it was everything I could have imagined and more! Thank you for sharing all your knowledge, and making this all a lot easier for us. I really appreciate you!

[@ifishcatfish]

cheers!

[@BF4pawntard]

Ultra light fishing changed the way i fish and species hunting is addictive as hell and when you hook something large as you always seem to do the fight is absolutely incredible .

[@ifishcatfish]

i've heard this several times recently

[@TragicallyHipp]

Perfect timing. Just starting my journey into ultra light

[@sasheh9702]

You came to the right place!

[@gleamtarrest6310]

Get the Legalis 2000 sp

[@sasheh9702]

@@gleamtarrest6310 I got the 4000 as a gift and now I am looking into getting the 2000 for sure. Worth every penny.

[@BF4pawntard]

Let us know in a month how many lure you have bought .😂

[@5millman]

welcome! you will not regret it one bit...

[@danieldoyle6001]

Great to hear you mention the anti consumer tilt that Daiwa is taking in regards to people who service their own reels. Hopefully one day they’ll change their tune and release the OEM parts, tools and lubricants they’ve been withholding from us.

[@Blackandyellowfishing]

great information!! I can personally confirm after purchasing multiple packs of the BG1 they are in fact the sharpest and thinnest wire hooks i have ever purchased. The bobbers are amazing as well. From the packaging and look they appear to be much more expensive than they are. The magic really happens when you pair the 2. The bait hangs PERFECTLY horizontal under the bobber and because the jig is perfectly matched with the bobber any little peck you will see ripples on water surface. Thanks again for your contribution to the fishing world these are now my go to jigs and bobbers for ultralight fishing.

[@ifishcatfish]

I really appreciate this

[@jdominique70]

I bought several Legalis in 2024 for around $60. Now I'm seeing several retailers selling them for $90.. You are driving up the prices with these awesome videos :)

[@ifishcatfish]

Same, i got 2 for $60. There is a way to get them with free shipping, as some retailers give u free shipping on large orders, and amazon Japan offers them with free shipping too.

[@RandyCFP]

​@@ifishcatfish Amazon Japan stopped selling the Legalis a few days ago. A lot of the Daiwa reels stopped showing available from Amazon Japan. 😢

[@ifishcatfish]

@ yes. I bought Airity ST 10 days ago and i'm still waiting to receive it. It was only 305 and free shipping. Now gone.

[@andriikudarenko5443]

​@@ifishcatfishnew 2025 Caldia looks good.. it could be bestseller

[@Cauratus]

Excellent and well explained video as always! A while back, I was looking for a relatively cheap backup reel to live in my car. I settled on the (JDM) 23 Legalis 2000S-P based solely on your recommendation and tear down video. When it arrived, I honestly couldn't believe how smoothly it performed out of the box for that kind of money. I now own 3 Legalis :)

[@ifishcatfish]

Even I when i fish with the Luvias can't always tell the difference..

[@mariussimon7344]

Thank you for this great buying guide ! (Really appreciated your Eastern Europe accent that makes things more understandable for a non native English speaker like me 😅) Greetings from France

[@ifishcatfish]

mersi

[@saintmartinfireangler2401]

Only the best from you Vincent! God bless you brother!

[@ifishcatfish]

Thanks, Georgi!

[@ts.patarinsky]

Напълно съм съгласен, следя всяко ново видео. Поздрави!

[@ifishcatfish]

Nazdrave!

[@alexanderchumak9096]

Many thanks Victor! 🙌

[@ivanvedris9636]

great video and everything is explained nicely. I have a new legalis and fuego and I confirm the smoothness of the operation and all the above. I especially like the louder sound clicker. I don't use expensive Japanese rods, so there is no need for a more expensive reel for now.. TY

[@garylake998]

Victor, 5 stars *****. You have done it again, You hit every thing a fellow needs to have/know to make a choice by being well informed.. Thank you

[@ifishcatfish]

Always glad to see u i. The comments, mr Gary

[@Fishermens_Vue]

Thank you, Victor. Your KZbin channel sets the standard for ultralight anglers. Where would ultralight fishing be without you? All 3 big guys are obviously watching your videos in secret 😂 And if you haven’t thought about designing your own ifish rod, or reel, YOU SHOULD 😎

[@ifishcatfish]

Not at all. Everyone on youtube is already an expert. All of my commenters are experts too. I am just one expert among many.

[@Fishermens_Vue]

@@ifishcatfishWise words, but there’s only ONE ifish 🍻🎣

[@RealisticFishing]

Great breakdown!

[@JuanM759]

Strong work Victor. I think your 2024 reel buying guide was the first video of yours I watched. It started my journey into JDM, and ultra light gear again after many years away from fishing. I still can’t catch fish. However the important thing is that I look like I can with all this bad a$$ gear!!! I also casted my legalis into the lake trying to do a one handed cast like you. When my index finger opened all the rest of them opened too. I bit off more than I could chew brother.

[@ifishcatfish]

🤣 sorry to hear that brother!

[@Marcus419OO]

I picked up the Airity ST SF 1000 and it is everything you could ever want in an ultralight reel.

[@ifishcatfish]

I want an oscillation worm!

[@marijospajic2820]

After the last year review guide I totally agree with the Legalis to be no.1 position without a doubt Unfortunately the Sahara is too heavy for UL btw I sold both the Ninja and the Revros as they are indeed unmatched to the Legalis 👍 Thanks for the updated review 🎣🐟

[@marijospajic2820]

Just to add also there is no better reel price-quality ratio than the Ultegra FC Light, strong, Casting distance and the line lay.. fantastic and reliable I can only recommend it❤

[@FishingTime_LetsGo]

Great Job on this buying guide 👊🎣👍

[@bobjohnson7207]

Always one of my favorite video subject.

[@ifishcatfish]

always glad to see u Bobby

[@chipseiler1766]

Nicely done and perfectly explained. Come on Spring time!!! I've got cabin fever! Going out this week though!

[@ifishcatfish]

i crushed the ice with the boat today, to make enough space to cast. Well worth it!

[@sav7458]

I've been waiting for this one!

[@mastermouaable]

2016 Shimano Stradic Ci4 C2000S JDM is a really good ultra light reel. This reel is still going strong after 8 years of ownership. Line lay is very good but only some people will know the difference. Line management is very important to me because it saves time on the water.

[@ifishcatfish]

It was DEFINITELY on my 2016 Buying Guide!

[@yep.fishing]

Love your work

[@christinapalmer]

Can't wait to see the 2025 ultralight rod buying guide.

[@ifishcatfish]

u buying a gift for ur hustand, or fishing urself?

[@christinapalmer]

This is my own interest, for catching tasty panfish in California. I plan to get a JDM 2023 Legalis, but still have not decided upon a rod. Was leaning towards the Kuying Teton until watching your 2024 rod review, which convinced me to go JDM for the rod as well. I got shut out a couple of times with out of stock problems, and then let it slide due to winter. (I forget at this point which rods I tried to get.) So now I eagerly await your 2025 rod reviews, and the coming of spring.

[@claypaul1455]

My legalis on the way from Japan I’m still tracking Thank you

[@yajtramer6913]

I fish for salmon and trout But It's nice to see great fishing reels

[@ifishcatfish]

all of these would be trout recommendations too. At least stocked trout... not those 10 pounders in Lake Michigan..

[@StymoDe.]

Victor, I think it is close to impossible but still wonder if one day you will cover those bigger spinning reels for bass fishing. For me personally its just such an entertaining experience listening to your thoughts around these gears, I do learn and take away from your videos, but honestly, the fun part always comes first😊

[@ifishcatfish]

Its completely impossible because i can't even stay on top of the ultralight reels. And unless u fish them and open them... its just empty talk. My opinions, right or wrong, have formed from years of fishing with the same reels, and one life is just not enough

[@Man-ManMY]

I've been using 23 legalis lt for my ultralight, it's the best setup i have currently for ultralight and i use it to target barramundi, the reel hold up really good against 4kg barramundi

[@jw-vx8im]

Seems good value for money

[@Shawn_Lai]

Just got 2 JDM legalis based on your recommendations and wow man for the cost, you cant beat it. I can also vouch that the BG1 jigs and floats are LEGIT! Go buy some! I thought the ultegra was the base entry into Shimano power/core series and Miravel is base entry into the MGL rotors. Power/Core is meant for continuous winding and MGL is meant for start stop.

[@ifishcatfish]

I don't understand any of your language. Have you ever heard me use these words in any of my videos? I literally could not care less about stupid marketing names. I only care whats inside the reel, and the Miravel is a Sahara inside. I did say that the Ultegra feels like a Twinpower though, if you want to call that power/core..

[@Shawn_Lai]

​@ifishcatfishi know you've never said that before. I just wasn't sure if you knew that they separated their reels into different families. I wish Daiwa had shimano line management! 😂 I found my Procyon MQ to have very low resistance when winding. It feels better than the tatula or ballistic MQ which is weird.

[@ifishcatfish]

@ Even if you buy 3 of the exact same reel, all 3 will feel a little different. I have had 7 vanfords over the years and no 2 of them feel the same. Depends who assembled which reel. I did a review of Procyon like 5 years ago, but back then the Legalis was not so good. Today the Procyon doesn't make sense..

[@kylothecollector3483]

Perfect video this morning Vic! Got my coffee ready and threw you up while I glued my BG-1 jigs on my lures in preparation for the spring here in Chicago! No reason for me to watch these guides as I have pretty much everything on here haha, but boy do I love the insight you provide each year!

[@ifishcatfish]

I put some sauce to spice it up 😁

[@MrCruzou]

Very good buyers guide😊 i often look at your videos especially reviews, but i have a hard time to find where to buy some of the reels especially Daiwa here in Sweden. Im looking for the models per year. Cant find the Legalis for example. Would appreciate links to buy the right model if you have the time, thx for your hard work Victor 😊

[@ifishcatfish]

Legalis u can only buy from japan. Go to daiwa japan website, and pick the model u want , body size, spool size, gear ratio, etc. Now that u know the model, just google. U will have to pay shipping, and, since u live in communist europe, u will have to pay VAT too

[@dett559]

The 2023 Legalis is good. I just ordered another one. Get them before the tariffs start rolling in!

[@ifishcatfish]

man my jigs are made in china. That would kill my business

[@jimpeterson3806]

Gonna have to get my hands on the JDM Legalis when the ice melts. Thanks for the reviews!

[@ifishcatfish]

You gona appreciate my next video! USS Liberty, the nuclear powered ice breaker broke some TN ice yesterday! : )

[@jimpeterson3806]

@ifishcatfish can't wait!! 😂

[@davidrauschenbach6871]

@@ifishcatfishwow, would love to see!

[@j_jim-ys5uj]

Very nice reviews Mr.Victor. Vanilla Luvias I just added to arsenal very good looking on a Corto but with undeniable resistance as you warned in both videos. I spin it at my desk at work hoping to break it in somewhat quicker.

[@ifishcatfish]

I do same! On TEAM calls... : ) It does go away! Takes some time but it eventually will losen up

[@davidking2844]

Ok now Iam excited for the rods,I need a twitching rod and I blame your review for sold out😂

[@ifishcatfish]

Guilty.

[@miaz8885]

Ahhhh been waiting for this

[@TC_Fishing]

2025 Luvias ST is also available in the SF sizes. I would expect the next Exist (2026, based on 4-year cycle) to offer the ST variant.

[@ifishcatfish]

I said all of that in the video already

[@georgedixon8105]

Next for Shimano is a Stella with a magnum lite spool to get the weight down similar to the Vanquish 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ifishcatfish]

the stella has heavier body too, not just rotor. And i don't think shimano wants to turn it into Vanquish. They already have a vanquish

[@NorthweSteelheadJunkies]

​@ifishcatfish you realize shimano had two main lines of spinning reels; finesse series that includes twin, exsence, vanquish, vanford. The power size includes the Stella, Stradic, and SW series.

[@enginsama]

I think Sedona (500) still a good reel even they downgrade bearing, inside parts. Small size, line capacity, color (if anyone loves metallic colors) also adds few meters of throwing distance imo. With some discount i probably buy another for later usage. Thanks for the video, it's fantastic as always.

[@ifishcatfish]

Because of all of those fools pumping it, the sedona is not even cheaper in united states. In japan its cheaper but not here. So u buy inferior reel and dont save a dime.

[@SETSO-4L]

Definitely agree on the Legalis part. It feels better than my Ballistic MQ.

[@ifishcatfish]

thanks Brian, always good to see you in the comments buddy! How are u doing with the 1.5#8? I remember u did pretty good with the little ones!

[@SETSO-4L]

Brandon* and haven’t had a chance yet. Been too cold for our bass over here. I’ll be giving them a shot in the spring when bass start prespawn and see if we have any takers. Just too cold at the moment.

[@ifishcatfish]

@ even here... I had to crush the ice with the boat today to get some space where i can cast..

[@SETSO-4L]

@ dang, how’s the weather usually over there? I’m thinking of vacationing out there and seeing if it’d be worth moving out to Tennessee. I have some friends out there in the car community and I also see fishing is great out there plus the scenery is beautiful. Some of those friends have told me it’s very cold in winter and very humid in the summers.

[@ifishcatfish]

@@SETSO-4L its been very cold this year. U will see in my next video.. I've only lived here a couple of years

[@TomasJanicek]

Very interesting that you don't get reels like daiwa iprimi 24, the previous version was legalis with screw in handle. I presume the 24 will be the same as JDM legalis 24 just more sexy colors to go with presso rods :) Keep up the great work Viktor 👍 (Btw the surprise I got when opened complex xr 2500 drag to find 1 felt washer, I was very confused :)))) so no change needed.

[@ifishcatfish]

I heard that in later models... I don't know if it was a result of people bitching or just a different version for Europe, where u dont have bass on the first place. In shimano's website it says that the carbon drag was developed for bass anglers ..

[@mbnz0174]

Thanks for your reviews. I ordered a Legalis 1000 from Japan based on your recommendation. Vanfords are my go to reels for most of my fishing which is light inshore saltwater, but I didn't want to spend that amount of money for the small amount of ultralight fishing that I do.

[@77snair]

Would you mind telling me where you ordered your JDM legalis from...which website etc?

[@ifishcatfish]

Money!

[@wholybatman]

@@77snair Digitaka

[@101dragonsthe]

​@77snair I bought mine on Amazon for 85 dollars. I would buy the diawa legalis vs the shimano sahara as the sahara is heavier and bulky body. The bail on sahara is cheap plastic and has so much slop in it. I return the sahara.

[@mbnz0174]

@@77snair fishingshop kiwi

[@Resif_LRF]

Thanks for targetfull advices

[@audriulis]

Great video 😁👌🏻

[@kouvue3953]

You’re the man “ still saving me $”.🐟on

[@Henry-xh8ec]

I'm looking forward to the 25 Luvias ST SF models. Will have to try one in a 1000s or 2000ss model.

[@ifishcatfish]

ST SF should come in some Presso accents, so we can put a 130 gram reel on a 42 gram Presso Air AGS. That will be crazy

[@quliq9519]

Something new for me :D

[@offset191]

Do you have a size recommendation for the 23 legalis for the 4 piece 6’0 presso? Ideally I would buy the 1000 and 2000 and try them out, but I don’t want the hassle with overseas returns. Love the videos!

[@ifishcatfish]

1000 and 2000 is the same reel, but if you haven't bought the 4 piece presso, don't buy it. Very stiff.. like a bass rod. I recommend 6'6 2-piece...

[@offset191]

@ Thanks for the tip! I was looking for a more compact option that I can easily bring on the plane but it seems like there is not a great travel option in my lower budget.

[@ifishcatfish]

@@offset191 thats not an ultralight rod for sure. I had it and sold it immediately. But I don't have experience with that type of rod..

[@georgedixon8105]

Great review but one reel will beet them all in compared to price to quality comparison and saltwater ready is the Daiwa Fuego. 2000 is my preferred £60 to door on Allie.

[@ifishcatfish]

Fuego is not a real reel.. i talked about it in the video. 7:05

[@georgedixon8105]

@ you sparked positively regarding the Fuego saying it was similar to another you liked but mag sealed for extra money, but I got mine for £45 of Allie in there sale, it’s not quite as good as the Vanford but a 1/4 of the price.

[@mishutkin101]

What do you think about the new ultegra? Is it worth upgrading if you have the old one, and what are the differences

[@ifishcatfish]

Watch my 2024 Vandorf review to see what chanhes they did to the vanford. The ultegra will get the same changes

[@santoshkamble2207]

Cross cross line lay helps in non cinching line under pressure

[@ifishcatfish]

Everything helps for Something, no? If you wana go there... I like the frame of the reel made of Carbon, not Aluminum, but you can say Aluminum is stronger. The truth is that Daiwa has NO CHOICE. If they want to keep pumping this MQ like its something REAL, then they are STUCK with X wrap. And if you are stuck with something, you try to convince yourself that its not too bad. I catch big fish often enough and I can confirm that the line gets cinched a little. The next cast is a little shorted and then back to normal. I don't want to lay the line on my reel all the time just because once in a while i catch a big fish and the next cast is a little shorter

[@jimfournier9065]

I always look forward to your buying guides. Even though this year not much has changed, I did pick up one thing, I must have had my head in the sand! You say make sure to get the JDM Legalis from Japan, are there some made somewhere else? What is the difference and how can I tell it is from Japan? Thank you in advance for all the time and work you put into these videos, it is very much appreciated Victor!

[@ifishcatfish]

Some subscribers bought the new Legalis from Europe, and basically got the same reel as the US exceller - no screw on handle, and riveted knob instead of adjustable. So at least as of right now, only in Japan.

[@jimfournier9065]

@@ifishcatfishthank you!

[@jw-vx8im]

​@@ifishcatfishthere is a legalis in Australia not sure if its the same as the jdm. Ill look into it

[@TVslee]

Another great guide. I've watched this three times already - the first time I just listened while I was driving and laughed out loud over the Sedona/Revros/bad KZbinr comments. Regarding the taller spool advantages, the spool stroke of the Shimano reels (Ultegra and up) is 13.5mm, while the Daiwa spool stroke is 13mm. Query what kind of real world advantage that translates into when it's only 0.5mm. I've certainly never noticed anything but I don't fish as much as I'd like, so I'm wondering if you've noticed a meaningful difference in that department. By comparison, the spool stroke of the Shimano reels below Ultegra is only 12mm, so there is a more significant difference there including with the Daiwa reels so technically that would be another advantage of the Legalis over the more expensive Miravel.

[@ifishcatfish]

Which daiwa reel spool stroke is 13mm? I never measured this but the Ultegra seems to have a taller spool than the legalis, just looking at them. Also, the importance of tall spool is much lower than the importance of having an oscillation worm, so definitely in terms of line lay the Ultegra is on a higher level even then Exist..

[@TVslee]

@@ifishcatfish Your eyes are correct. The Ultegra and up have 13.5mm stroke (per Shimano specs) on the 1000 and 2000 spools. I haven't seen Daiwa publish their spool specs, but I measured my LT2000 spools (Legalis, Caldia, old Tatula) at 13mm, so they are just a tiny bit shorter than the Shimano C2000 spools.

[@ifishcatfish]

@ its kind of difficult to have long stroke in a small locomotive gear, because you would have to make a HUGE locomotive gear. If you want to increase the travel of the spool by 2mm, you would have to increase the diameter of your locomotive gear by 2mm, but that is a huge marginal increase of weight. Which is why they make these gears plastic.. By the way, daiwa still makes reels with oscillation worm! Their carp reels and surf fishing reels DO have oscillation worm, as those reels have huge spools and u cant lay down the line properly without oscillation worm..

[@chanceb954]

please review/breakdown the 2025 Shimano Ultegra. very curious to see what improvements were made, I hope the drag clicker is metal now

[@ifishcatfish]

I already did. I said in the video what they changed. If you want to know exactly what they changes, just watch my 2024 Vanford review, as they are doing the same change to all their reels.

[@pedroetayo]

The Sahara 5000 was three meters under salt water until I found it after 24 hours, it is still perfect with simple cleaning.

[@ifishcatfish]

i don't want to get into debate, but i don't believe that. U can clean the gears but u can't clean the bearings. At minimum you antireverse bearing is FxxD up. Either that, or Jesus does exist, and this was a miracle.

[@johnthefisherman]

i would like to dd when it comes to the fuego : its a nice reel if your wadeing out in a lake or river to fish . that magseal saved me some issues past few years. Sedona is a region or place in new arizona as far as i know

[@ifishcatfish]

Ha! Makes sense!

[@shellcrackerlover5889]

I have several Luvias reels, a Ballistic reel and several high-quality ABU from Japan. I'm starting to think the Daiwa Legalis is all you need. I recently ordered one and I'm not skilled enough to really appreciate the Luvias 1003 over this Legalis.

[@ifishcatfish]

there is VERY LITTLE that the Luvias offers over the Legalis, and it is mostly weight. The funny thing is that a properly lubed Legalis has LOWER resistance than a $250 Luvias.. (vanilla Luvias. The ST Luvias is a different thing)

[@Fishing_lokam]

Exceller❤❤❤

[@ifishcatfish]

tight lines!

[@Fishing_lokam]

@ 8 lb is fine

[@FinessaYT]

I come back 4 days after to confirm they have just announced the exist sf😂

[@ifishcatfish]

ST SF? They already had SF..

[@Eddiegoesfishing]

Victor, I have a question for you, but first of all I want to thank you for sharing your knowledge on ultralight fishing with us. I own both Daiwa Legalis (2021) and Shimano Sahara for a few years due to your suggestions and I've liked them so far. My question is if ordering the 2023 Legalis from amazon is safe? It says on the product description that it's sent from japan but there's several vendors which I have no experience and i just want to make sure I'm getting the screw in handle and serviceable knob. Thank you in advance. P.D. You should have added to this year's buyer's guide the clickbait words, "Secrets Revealed" it would have given you 3 times the views. 😂

[@ifishcatfish]

Nothing is 100% safe. Going fishing assumes the risk of dying in a car accident. That said, i buy from daiwa Japan sometimes. I just bought the Airity ST for $305 with free shipping. A bunch of people did. Will see what we get as today i see the airity is back to $400..

[@Eddiegoesfishing]

@ifishcatfish Fair enough, I guess I worry more about my money being well spent. When you say you "sometimes buy from Daiwa Japan", you mean through amazon or some other tackle distributor? I ask these questions because I'm not in the U.S. and prices are higher compared to prices in the U.S.

[@ifishcatfish]

@ I buy online like everybody else but i don't tell people where to shop precisely because sometimes there is a problem with the order, and then people ask me what to do and I cannot express how much I don't need that..

[@Eddiegoesfishing]

@@ifishcatfish well, I'll figure it out then. Thanks for your time and tight lines!! 🎣

[@thatonebeone]

Airity ST SF and exist SF there's no night and day difference besides the price tag and as you mentioned before the new exist just has the newer parts and stuff and I'm just not too much a fan of a reel that's all chrome shiny.. I wish SLP works will do them black like they doing for the new certate they offering a custom black version Shimano needs to bring lighter weight reels for their next cycle I'd love a stell around 150 grams for my rods that's 50 grams under.. so fun fishing under 200 grams combo and I fish saltwater only 🎣🐟 I cast for 1 hour non stop and I don't get tired unless I grab my 5000 reel for big monster halibut 20 cast of that I'm tired 😂

[@ifishcatfish]

I don't think the EXIST ST SF will be chrome. The Luvias Presso is Presso color. I am certain the EXST ST SF will have the name 2026 PRESSO LIMITED and will have the right Presso colors. But under the skin it will be an Exist ST SF, because there is nothing else that i could possibly be.

[@thatonebeone]

@@ifishcatfish yup at this point the presso is already out.. it just needs a bit of color change to match the presso rod color scheme.. the current presso reel is so ugly lol

[@ifishcatfish]

@ maybe they don't mind that the Luvias Presso is ugly. The Exist SF Presso has to look more expensive in comparison

[@kietnguyen4479]

Hey man can I get some advice on what rod to get please? I currently have the vanquish 2000 and looking for a very light weight, light-UL power that I’ll be using for some bass (smallmouth) fishing. I have a few in mind but can’t decide which one to get. 1. The Olympic Corto UX (6102L-HS). 2. Shimano Soare SS Ajing (S64L-S). 3. Soare XR (S510L-S). 4. Olympic Bellezza UX (652UL-T). I have been losing sleep over what to buy 😂 I would greatly appreciate it if you can offer a suggestion, thank you so much!

[@ifishcatfish]

i like the last one the most, even though its the cheapest. But the Corto will be the most sensitive and lightest and on paper the best. I just don't like extra fast action.

[@ronmb81]

Hi Victor, quick question on the legalis. Does it have magseal? Great video btw, cheers from Sydney Australia 👍🏼

[@jw-vx8im]

I doubt it. Probably can service yourself

[@wholybatman]

No, that would be the Fuego.

[@ifishcatfish]

correct. Magseal is precisely the difference between Legalis and Fuego. Even then we are talking only about main shaft mag seal. High end daiwas have mag seal on the line roller, on the main shaft bearings and maybe soon at new spots..

[@wholybatman]

@@ifishcatfish I learned well from you, Victor.

[@AguirreFitzcarrdo]

Have you seen the new black luvias ST SF coming out soon?

[@ifishcatfish]

Didn't u see it in the video? I talked about it! 24:01

[@abrahamjoseph6707]

Are you going to do a different buying guide for higher models?

[@abrahamjoseph6707]

Victor GOOD. Other you tuber BAD

[@ifishcatfish]

i covered everything up to 1000$. Do u know any reels over 1000?

[@abrahamjoseph6707]

Sizes in c3000 to c5000

[@abrahamjoseph6707]

Nice informative detailed review Vic

[@ifishcatfish]

Oh.. i see.. No, I haven't bought any big reels in a long time, i don't follow the field there..

[@iskandarputera1321]

Will you review the 25 luvias after it is released?

[@ifishcatfish]

of course! But .. i investigated this reel.... I promise you it will be exactly what I said in this video.

[@joshualabelle8109]

hello i love your videos and after watching this one im thinking about picking up a legalis, not trying to sound rude but i am curious where do u buy it for 60? on digitaka the lowest prices is 80 and i dont know of any other places to get this reel

[@ifishcatfish]

save your top retailers in favorites and check from time to time. It used to be $60, then after my review of the reel the 1000 and 2000 models sold out and when they came back they were $80, but them more inventory came and they came back down to 60. After i published my guide the price jumped again, but i am sure it will come back down.

[@thesonorandesertangler]

I wonder if the new Ultegra will be good for UL fishing

[@ifishcatfish]

I covered the new uktegra in the video

[@thesonorandesertangler]

@ifishcatfish Shimano released a new one for 2025, but I'm not sure if it's available yet.

[@ifishcatfish]

@ I covered the new one in the video.

[@marinatedcheese-g3q]

What an amazing vid. I have a few question, do you think getting the legalis is worth it when the exceler is 18$ cheaper? Also do you think what you wrote in 15:30 is valid for the Gekkabijin MQ, Gekkabijin X and Soare BB? Im debating if the more price for them over the legalis is justified. Thank you for your work!

[@ifishcatfish]

where is the exceller cheaper? Usually it costs more to get a worse reel. I personally prefer the Legalis anyway, because the exceler has a riveted knob that will develop free play with time and u can't adjust it. And the screw on handle. I don't care for $18 and i hate being annoyed by little things. But handle and knob is not a big deal so if want to save $18 its probably just fine. Gekkabijin MQ is the same as the other reels reels. Gekkabijin X is just an expensive Legalis anyway. Soare BB is an interesting one. The Soare XR is a Vanford version and a much better reel than the Ultegra. But the Soare BB is actually just a black painted Ultegra with a couple extra bearings under spool and knob. Usually i don't like the expensive versions because mechanically its a waste of money, but the Soare BB looks very nice in my opinion. But you would be paying more money to buy a better looking Ultegra

[@marinatedcheese-g3q]

@@ifishcatfish Hmm so the meaningful upgrades are the SoareBB/Ultegra. New ultegra is way expensive to justify the price. I think Ill get a Legalis. Also for saltwater Do you think the GBX is like a Fuego with it's magseals? appreciate the response

[@darrenw8573]

Do you know of any spools from cheaper models that fit on a 21 Ultegra 1000? I would like to have an extra spool to switch between light and heavier rockfishing, and am not as concerned about weight savings for heavier rockfishing.

[@ifishcatfish]

no cheaper models will have the same spool because they don't have oscillation worm and have a shorter stroke. No higher end models will fit either. The only reel that I know that is built on the Ultegra platform is the SoareBB, but that reel is more expensive than the ultegra.

[@Maaammon]

A friend gave me a sahara 2500shg and I last week ordered a tatula xt rod the ultralight variant with solid tip. Will this setup be okay?

[@ifishcatfish]

well.. u got the right products, but the wrong models. Don't buy reels with HG in the model number and don't buy rods with solid tip

[@hldemi_fishing]

For Legalis would you rather buy 2000S-XH or LT2000D ?

[@ifishcatfish]

No X or H in the model of any reel, for any type of fishing. Dont care if its bass, carp of catfish, X and H are always bad

[@RiverSpinner]

Hi Victor, I really appreciate your videos and the time that you sacrifice to make this very informative content available for us. I have a big dilemma now and maybe you can help me. Currently I am a happy owner of a Shimano Vanquish 1000 SSSPG paired with a Shimano Soare Xtune S58SUL-S, but I am a bit afraid that I'm stressing this reel too much... (fish size, have a look at my videos) I am now considering a change to a 2022 Shimano Stella 1000 SSPG. The difference between the two reels is 25 g. What is your opinion? Will the vanquish resist or should I change? I don't know how the 1000 SSPG Stella feels also I am afraid of a higher inertia. Or should I wait for the 2025 Stella? (if there will be one this year.)

[@ifishcatfish]

The stella has near zero resistance, but if you want something stronger, i recommend the twinpower. It feels every bit as good as the stella. That rod is not exactly made for big fish either. Maybe just leave this rig alone and make another rig for larger fish

[@erickescobedo4820]

Do you think the $80 upgrade from Luvias st lt to Airity st lt is worth it? It will mainly be a spooning rod for trout 0.8-2.5g

[@ifishcatfish]

'WORTH' depends on how much money u make, what family u have, whats ur disposable income... it is 100% subjective to everyone. There is a big difference between the two reels though.. Airity is Exist, and Luvias, while very nice, is just a plastic reel. There is a pretty big difference between them. Not in terms of resistance, but overall refinement

[@spectreoflight82]

@i_fish what about the usa version of the Legalis I see from places like Bass Pro Shops or Fish USA, it's silver and blue. Is that one not as good? Didn't see a video on it on your page.

[@ifishcatfish]

yeah.. thats the old version, old, heavy rotor. New version is so much better.. The old one is still pretty good though, but the new is lighter and better

[@captainrylenaviation29]

Interested in Daiwa presso limited reel if they even going make 1.

[@ifishcatfish]

One Orange Exist ST SF coming up.

[@petikepetikepeti]

Hello Victor. I Would like to ask for your advice. I recently bought a Daiwa 23' Legalis 2500 (europe). Right out of the box it had a clicking noise coming from the reel handle and it had resistance from the spool (pretty noisy one). I contacted the dealer and requested that they change the reel, they did. I received a new reel and it has no significant resistance in the spool, but the clicking noise from the reel handle is the same. My question would be if you have encountered something similar in the past with this model? Or it is just me that had 2 faulty products sent to me. Or this reel is just like this. Mind you, it is not exactly the same if I have a good understanding, because this reel has a folding reel handle not fixed. Do you think it can be solved or should i just send it back ? (If you wish i can send you a video wherever you want.) Thank you in advance!

[@laurorodriguez9063]

Great informative video Mr victor quick question I search for shamano Sahara 1000 size but some of the 3:32 models have the FJ in the model number and some one doesn’t do you think both of them are the same one?

[@ifishcatfish]

the new one has a black handle, the old one has the gold handle. Just make sure u get the new one.

[@clintoriggle1053]

Have you put your hands on a Daiwa Sol? I bought a 1000, but I have to wait for ice out to put it to work. It weighs 5.3 ounces

[@ifishcatfish]

No, but its just another Vanilla Luvias. More magseal for saltwater. This reel was developed specially for Australia for saltwater. It is severely overpriced Luvias. It is pretty though. Are u from united states? Maybe send it to me for a video..

[@olov87]

Hi started with Ul-fishing last year with (Daiwa 22 PROREX V LT 2000)spinning reel, not sure if it is EU market only. would be cool to hear what you think about the prorex reels, have a litte bit problem with short casting have a 0.12mm 4 braid line and a (daiwa prorex S 0.5-5g) rod, fishing Trout and Perch with it thinking about to change the line any tips to improve the combo. thx for making the video 👍

[@ifishcatfish]

i covered the prorex in the video... i think its a waste of money.. As far as recommendations for your combo.. this entire video is nothing but recommendations, just pick something from your budget..

[@zbassr2106]

What brand and type of line do you use for cold weather fishing?

[@ifishcatfish]

I use ester in any water

[@zbassr2106]

@ifishcatfish can you recommend a brand? I'm trying to weed out the least performing brands for winter fishing

[@ifishcatfish]

@@zbassr2106 Varivas, Sunline, YGK, Gosen.

[@DANNY_01.]

Victor thank you for this video but if i was to buy a 71 TZ NANO blue current would i rather have the new complex or wait for the 25 shimano soare xr (if it releases)?

[@ifishcatfish]

Complex XR or even the new 2024 vanilla Luvias... would look great.

[@DANNY_01.]

@@ifishcatfish honestly i think the soare because its a golden accent and i never tried the complex but i have tried the soare and tis very different feeling to me to the vanford

[@ifishcatfish]

@ sounds like your mind was made up already .. : )

[@jamesmjychang3440]

Spoil your self with a vanquish

[@johncowan5924]

Lol whatever you feel comfortable with will outfish the guy next to you ... getting comfy with what you have is key

[@ifishcatfish]

Thats great. Do u have any other keys?

[@0-One-AI]

Abu Garcia zenon ?

[@ifishcatfish]

does not feel like daiwa and shimano. And its not even cheap. But even if it cost as much as the legalis, i still take legalis

[@0-One-AI]

@@ifishcatfish What do you think about the sandy-like feeling when turning the handle on Legalis and most other Daiwa models?

[@ifishcatfish]

@@0-One-AI I have never seen a daiwa with a sandy feeling. Are you an older gentleman? If you are talking about the daiwas from the 1990s, i recommend go get one of the new ones. Top of the industry currently.

[@perthonabudget]

Is the 2021 Legalis CS any good?

[@ifishcatfish]

it is very good even today, and better than any of those other brands. But the new Legalis is even better with the new lighter rotor... big weight difference, big inertia difference.

[@ProjectD00135]

I'm looking at buying either 2 Vanquish or a Stella and a Vanquish I fish mostly Crappie/Bluegill and Bass Im no tournament fisherman though just young enthusiast. I like your fishing philosophy with ultralight. You have said previously the Stella is definitely the best feeling reel and you use the 1000sspg size. Im sure C2500 of either could handle any bass Im likely to come across. My question, is it really such a bad thing to get the 2500 size reel if they are still on 1000 size body and Shimano doesn't make a 500 size body. Essentially Im trying to find the best combo of sizes like Stella C2500/ Vanquish 1000 or just Vanquish 1000/Vanquish C2500 will I really notice the reeling feel of a Stella compared to a Vanquish. Should Probably note I already have Stradic C3000XG and ScorpionDC 150HG.

[@ifishcatfish]

What rod are u gona put the stella on? Are u gona put an 800$ reel on a 100$ rod? If you buy a high end rod, the stella will be too heavy for them. The stella is the best reel overall, but not an ultralight fishing reel. If you have this kind of money, make a rig for bass with the stella, and make a separate rig for panfish with the vanquish. I don't even understand what the problem is.

[@ProjectD00135]

@ I came to similar conclusion. would probably put Stella on ML expride and currently looking at Soare/World Shaula TE/ Trout one NS for a Vanquish. Just haven’t gotten a chance to really fish high end gear on the water have never fished 1000 size either

[@torment6369]

@@ProjectD00135 Go vanquish. Everyone I knew that has or had a stella stop using it when they got the vanquish. I myself have the 1000 stella paired with a abu eradicator and its a sweet thing to fish with but I too wanna pick up a vanquish after hearing everyone else talk about it. You can't go wrong with either though. The differences are minimal unless you are extremely picky and those people tend to lean with lighter weight reels. I will say though the stella drag sounds way more satisfying compared to the vanquish.

[@comfortablynumb9342]

I recently bought a 2000 size Legalis LT at a local shop. I filled it with 8 lb braid and I am going to use it for flounder and redfish in the Chesapeake Bay this year. I used a couple of Revros last year and they were fine. They'll get used again this year too. They're tougher than you realize. I caught a stingray about 30" across with my 2000 size Revros and 10 lb braid. No problem besides the 20 minutes battle. I also caught a bunch of redfish and flounder and trout with those reels.

[@ifishcatfish]

Seems risky. Thats what Fuego and Nasci are made for

[@TheZeppelin14]

I'm trying to decide which to buy between a Vanford or the Cardiff. I won't buy any other brand over Shimano.

[@Marcus419OO]

Cardiff for looks but the vanford is better imo

[@TheZeppelin14]

@@Marcus419OO I do like the look of the Cardiff better for sure.

[@Marcus419OO]

@@TheZeppelin14 I fish does a video comparing that family, from what I remember the biggest difference is better price with the vanford and better drag.

[@ifishcatfish]

These two reels have the same drag actually, both have perfect felt. Cardiff comes with one extra bearing under the spool that doesn't do much, but also comes with this obnoxious round knob that i had to replace before even going fishing once. At the end its a wash, as i said in the video. If you know what rod it will go on, i would indulge in getting the one i think will look better

[@TheZeppelin14]

@ Cool, Thanks for the info, I think I will probably end up getting the Cardiff.

[@miaz8885]

Do you ever had the gekkabijin lt? I'm concern because I just ordered it base on its spec and price it looks good.

[@ifishcatfish]

Gekkabijin is based on Legalis.. so obviously a good reel, but you are paying extra money over the Legalis for nothing. No need for concern.. worst case u paid 20-30 extra dollars

[@miaz8885]

@ifishcatfish I'm talking about the gekkabijin lt and not the gekkabijin X lt which is just legalis with machine cut gear and magseal The gekkabijin lt only weight 163g± and seems to have more bearing

[@sK413x_88]

Privet Master, can you tell me, why would the Legalis from japan, much more better, as the US/EU Version, if they both made in Vietnam?

[@ifishcatfish]

you said 'much more better', not me. I know what i said. I never said better, i said some features, like screw on handle and adjustable knob are MISSING. on top of that its $20 more than the JDM. So you see, the term 'more better' just doesn't fit. You are just buying a reel that costs more money and is missing some cool features.

[@sK413x_88]

@@ifishcatfish but are the difference so huge? im from germany, and if im ordering stuff from oversea, i have to paid custom taxes, thats why im asking my friend

[@ifishcatfish]

@ I told you exactly what the differences are. If you don't know what those parts are, then don't worry about it. Its subjective, some people are picky. Here the JDM Legalis is cheaper than the Exceler, so it makes no sense to buy a more expensive reel with less features. But if ur prices are different, just buy the cheapest version of legalis. Except Revros. Thats the one reel not to buy

[@sK413x_88]

@@ifishcatfish thank you

[@trentonedwards9158]

Where would the shimano soare ci4+ fall into this list?

[@ifishcatfish]

that reel was in this guide in 2018. After 2019 it was discontinued.

[@trentonedwards9158]

@ would you still recommend this if it was a good price? What reel is a good comparison to it?

[@karolgrabka6013]

Does the cardiff xr comes with fleece on brake or carbon?

[@ifishcatfish]

Felt, is the english word you are looking for. Yes, comes with felt, like the Vanford. The other versions come with carbon

[@karolgrabka6013]

@ifishcatfish oh ye didn't notice i wrote it wrong :) thanks for clarification mate 👍

[@holy9680]

What do you about Daiwa Iprim

[@ifishcatfish]

some sort of Legalis, for sure, but don't know what the exact differences are. But the JDM legalis already has everything that it needs! You can add the bearings in the line rolled and the knob, if you are into that sort of stuff, and i sell those for like 3 buck in my shop, but honestly those are accessories, its not something important like the support bearing of some of the gears..

[@t.a.7970]

I wish Shimano would make an ultralight baitrunner. The 2500 is just a bit too large for my needs. Whiting, bream and the odd Flatty.

[@ifishcatfish]

Hmmmm... I dont know about that... A 4000 size Twinpower baitrunner would be perfect for me. Only 250 grams and can tow anything up to 100 pounds.

[@t.a.7970]

@@ifishcatfish 4000 is way oversized for what I regularly fish for. I have pulled in 80cm flattys on a 2500 baitrunner with no problems at all. I mostly live bait for bream. Sharks and rays break me off but I really don't mind too much.

[@ifishcatfish]

@@t.a.7970 its not practical. If u are doing it for kicks, then its different. I fish for carp all my life and while I have landed many carp on ultralight, I still don't go carp fishing with Ultralight. I want to land 10-12 carp, i don't want to spend 30 min fighting every single fish

[@t.a.7970]

@@ifishcatfish Other than big Barramundi I don't think I have ever taken more than 3 minutes to land a fish. Ultralight is plenty enough to handle Big Bream and Whiting. A big Flathead may take a bit longer to get in but it's never excessive. I do use an old Abu Garcia 6500C for my Barra rig with 8kg line but that is what I consider sport fishing rather than food fishing...even though Barra is the best eating fish we have around here. I would still love a 2000 size baitrunner rig. What do you do with the carp? Where I am they are an invasive trash fish no one would ever dream of eating.

[@cruelty5780]

when i saw 100-200 dollars range is ultegra i was like hell nah 🤣

[@ifishcatfish]

You are amazing. I wish I knew about reels as much as you do!