Shimano SLX Baitcaster Review...Is This Reel Worth $100???

[@nicklee39]

*Awesome reel, **enjoyable.fishing** recommend especially for the price! No problems so far. Reeled in a 14lb laker yesterday and performed great. (5-10 min reel in time) Love the drag adjustment.*

[@HookNReel]

Man I’m so glad you did the review in this specific reel. I’ve been wanting to get it and now I’m definitely going to get it

[@TackleJunky81]

Use that discount code bro! 👊💪

[@HookNReel]

I’ll definitely do that. Appreciate it man!!

[@empoweryou1]

I've had mainly the Pro Qualifiers for the last 4 years. Lov'em. However, I bought a $99 SLX this spring and have been using it extensively. I think it casts farther and with fewer backlash episodes. It is noisier than the PQs but so far it's been great.

[@proteusxavier9477]

Very fair review. Always important to compare reels in the same price bracket. Been a big fan of SLX components on some of my mountain bikes, so I can trust the quality on many other similar Shimano products.

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate the comment buddy!

[@harrywhitton4107]

love this reel to this day, i bought one a couple years ago, i lost it, bought another second hand. found it again after 2 years today!!! love it, my favourite bait caster.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 👊💪

[@dant8213]

I always like reviews from someone I feel i can trust that wont just say it's good to sell reels or get views. Thanks man!

[@TackleJunky81]

My pleasure buddy! I appreciate the comment and thanks for watching!

[@andrescruz9448]

Got mine on sale for $80 and was new to baitcasters before the summer so I basically learned how to use a baitcaster with this reel. For the price and what it is you can't complain unless you get a lemon or something

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@RhinoVenturesOutdoors]

Thanks for the review Jim! I agree, at that price point, it would be hard not to jump on the Pro Qualifier on sale. And get two of them! Rumor has it I'm getting a Curado DC for xmas. Will be my first Shimano.

[@TackleJunky81]

That's awesome man...you'll love it!

[@jessegross1269]

Good video and info review , I like the lews orange crush combo and the green 1 before it also combo ! Great combos and I use them for everything but I might try going with this reel you showed bc I'm looking for a new one for different type of lure fishing . Thanks again for showing me these types of reels !

[@TackleJunky81]

My pleasure Jesse!

[@thesovietonion4671]

Thinking about buying this reel, I bought the curado k and I fell in love with shimano

[@TackleJunky81]

You'll dig it! 👊

[@dbillgaming7250]

You ever gonna snag a DC?

[@TackleJunky81]

@@dbillgaming7250 I have the slx, curado, scorpion and metanium dc.

[@dbillgaming7250]

@@TackleJunky81 was talking the other guy but that’s bad ass bro I have 2 SLX dcs and the rest are same as yours next up the Antares DC 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@thesovietonion4671]

@@dbillgaming7250 probably a year or two, I want to work with my dad and get some money

[@ifishcatfish]

I have 60 - 70 reels and have to agree with ur opinion of the BPS pro qualifier. Feels like a 200$ reel. At first i thought it was made by Shimano for bps. Then i learned it was made in korea in the same factory than makes lews and abu garcia and i was impressed. I actually dont like lews and abu that much. Definitely cant be beat when its on sale for $50

[@TackleJunky81]

The PQ will always have a place in my arsenal. Appreciate you watching buddy!

[@Ranger374_]

Great review Jim! Been using my slx for awhile and love it! Hard to beat the price for a quality shimano reel. Keep up the great work buddy!

[@TackleJunky81]

Thanks Tim. I'll have to get the XT next.

[@Ranger374_]

@@TackleJunky81 sounds good Jim, I'm sure that one is just as good from what I've heard about it. 👍

[@greenpighunter6930]

Caught a 9.9 LM today test my new SLX 6.3 today testing it out at my pond. It works.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@outdoorexperience8723]

GreenPig Hunter what gear ratio is best for all around use?

[@greenpighunter6930]

@@outdoorexperience8723 If I had to choose one gear ratio for all around use it'd be a 6 something. I run 5, 6, 7, & 8's and a 6.3 or 6.5 is not giving up much to any of them.

[@outdoorexperience8723]

GreenPig Hunter I just ordered the 6.3:1. I hope it goes well

[@themondoman2827]

Pro qualifiers are so underrated I looove mine

[@TackleJunky81]

Agreed! Solid reels! 👊💪

[@willtrax71]

Great Video my Friend and I’ve been watching for a Pro Qualifier I can afford on the EBay for several Months now since watching yours and Devon’s over on Debo’s Fishing do the Reviews on that Reel. I’m an older Guy and look for Reels that will last the test of time and the Pro Qualifier seems to fit. Stay safe my Friend Semper Fidelis

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you buddy! The Pro Qualifier is a solid choice. Hopefully they go back on sale during the holidays. Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@Radeo12]

Great video!! Totally will love the slx when it comes in!!

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 👊

[@Stang95Bang]

Definitely my favorite fishing channel already and now I know you have the SLX on the TCS just like me, it's even better

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate the comment buddy! 👊💪

[@Stang95Bang]

@@TackleJunky81 💪🤙🏼

[@ferrante250]

If you liked the SLX, you should try out the SLX DC. It’s great. 👍🏼

[@TackleJunky81]

It's on my list! 👊💪

[@bigtimfish01]

I was impressed with mine. Handled a 28" redfish nicely.

[@randymirando4214]

Sick reel. I got one and couldn’t believe I paid a 100$ for it. Can’t wait to get the dc version

[@TackleJunky81]

For sure! 👊💪

[@mikeschultz6383]

Randy Mirando the DC version is sick I love mine it’s my go to reel

[@bigjackKin]

Great Review. You are recommending the "Pro Qualifier" but all I see available now is Pro Qualifier 2 and it's reviews aren't stellar. Are you endorsing the newer version? Enjoy your videos. Tight lines TJ

[@TackleJunky81]

Thanks Jack! I used the original for years and then the PQ 2 this past season with zero issues. It appears to be the same reel as before, but with different gear ratios. I'd imagine just like anything else a lemon may go out from time to time which might be some of the bad reviews or user error in some cases, but a few buddies of mine have these reels as well and have used them hard all season with zero issues.

[@TackleJunky81]

@Bennybass It's hard to say, but if I had to pick one I'd go with the SLX. When tossing lighter baits the rod is just as important.

[@dagarhart]

How do you like it compared to the DCs?

[@TackleJunky81]

I haven't used the SLX DC, but I'd definitely pick the Curado DC over the SLX...more than double the price though.

[@lukelackermayer]

what camera did you use to film this? Amazing quality video love the vids.

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate the comment! Gopro 5

[@juslikewater]

I have the 151xg and I love it now . When I first got it they over greased the spool bearings and it cast like crap 💩 but once I cleaned it out it was solid. It’s now my backup reel to my SLX DC because I saw your vid and had to have it. Still attempting to skip like you but I need way more practice 😆

[@TackleJunky81]

I'm glad you're diggin it bro...keep practicing! 👊💪

[@chadtindell4388]

Hey tj I just got a metanium dc and I love your reel cleaning videos so do you know how to get to the side cover bearing to service it where the dc unit is?

[@TackleJunky81]

I'm not familiar with that reel bud, sorry.

[@camhester4251]

i picked it because tactical bassin said it's good and it's on sale for $75 so why not , i wanted another Diawa cc80 but they are sold out Shimano we'll see !!

[@Tokes_Outdoors]

Been wanting for this review!

[@TackleJunky81]

Hope you enjoy!

[@w4rriorf1shing51]

Waiting you meam

[@Tokes_Outdoors]

@@w4rriorf1shing51 oh, is that what I meant???

[@Tokes_Outdoors]

@@w4rriorf1shing51 and if you want to be spellcheck police, then you need to look at your comment because you meant mean not "meam" 😁

[@roberttaylor9589]

Would this make a good beginners reel? I haven't used a bait caster in 10+ years and I always have had a problem with it getting a rats nest.

[@WadeLife]

Just bought the Shimano DC SLX 150HG

[@Go_Fishingoutdoors]

Thx man just got the reel and excited to use it

[@TackleJunky81]

Right on! 👊

[@ErnieTamayo]

Hey TJ...would love to get your thoughts on the Lew’s Pro Classic. I picked one up last week for $69 at Tackle Warehouse. Unfortunately I haven’t had much time to play with it. As always...appreciate your insights!

[@TackleJunky81]

I'll have to pick that one up. Appreciate you watching buddy!

[@jimmied2838]

I picked up the SLX about two months ago. Great reel for the price

[@TackleJunky81]

For sure! 👊💪

[@willjunkin732]

Great video. I have debating on getting the pro qualifier and or the Slx. I have a quick question for you. I have seen you use floricabon alot. Do you ever use braid and if so what for.

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you Will! I mainly use braid around grass. I fish a lot of wood and braid and wood don't mix well together.

[@robin_lundahl]

Would you recommend it to heavy swimjigs ? Or shadjigs with 15-20 grams jigheads? Thats 1/2 - 3/4 oz.

[@TackleJunky81]

I've tossed 1/2oz underspins on it with no problem at all.

[@stonyfloyd1438]

By far my favorite reel!

[@mikekiss5757]

What do you think about the kast king speed demon elite over the slx

[@BT-xm4cq]

Great review TJ looks cold up there, better you than me lol sunny south Fla. fishing is great water temp 80s

[@TackleJunky81]

🤣🤣🤣 Real funny! Low was like 12 the other day, lol Appreciate you watching buddy!

[@shtty17]

I have the SLX HG and SLX XT. I don’t run high end gear so I can’t compare it to other reels at higher price points. But man I haven’t had a single problem yet. XT casts a country mile when dialed

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@dropment5408]

Just bought this reel in the 8:3:1 configuration and going to be using 10lb test for texas rigs.

[@TackleJunky81]

Nice!

[@outdoorexperience8723]

Dropment what ratio should I get for best all around use?

[@dropment5408]

@@outdoorexperience8723 the ratio is just retrieve speed so 7:3 imo would get good. Its all the same price so mine as well get the fastest.

[@fabfishing7422]

Awesome reel for sure! Definitely looks sweet on that rod 💪 Excellent review my Brother!! Good seeing the red rocket.. probably for one of the last times 😢 Xpress lightens that sadness though 😎

[@TackleJunky81]

Thanks buddy! You might see the ole red rocket in a few more vids before she goes, lol

[@fabfishing7422]

Shaaaaaweet 😎

[@upstateangler9575]

I live the SLX its my go to reel . I think I have 7 of them and one SLX DC as well . They look killer on this TCS rods too . Love the wider handle and grips and fits very well in hand . The next reel to try is the DC for your self . It is slightly bigger then the normal one .

[@mitchelreynolds2686]

UpState Angler I’m debating getting either the SLX or SLX dc, is it really worth the extra money?

[@TackleJunky81]

I'm gonna pick up the XT as well! 👊💪

[@upstateangler9575]

@@mitchelreynolds2686 watch @TackleJunky81 s review on the Currado DC . It has the same breakimg system and to be honest I think the SLX feels better in hand . The Currado DC I have as well and thats a bigger reel . The difference is in the gears is why the SLX is $60 cheaper

[@owenj.1669]

Great video! Would this reel be a good one for flipping?

[@TackleJunky81]

I don't see a problem with that.

[@hunternixonfishing2500]

I feel it’s the best reel for the money! It reminds me of my old pro qualifier reels! Great review

[@TackleJunky81]

It's solid for sure! 👊💪

[@lexingtonlad5745]

I want to use this for pike. Would 50lb braid be OK on it?

[@perfectator]

Does a lew’s reel like the mach smash cast way further than this?

[@lilstuckbeatz1964]

What about the shimano tranx 200? Is it the best 200 sized baitcaster?

[@bertraminc9412]

What brand and model rod is on the SLX again please sir? Is it a Shimano rod as well?

[@TackleJunky81]

Okuma TCS 6'9" MH/Mod-Fast

[@bertraminc9412]

@@TackleJunky81 Thank you!

[@ChocoYGO]

American legacy fishing has slx rod/reel combos for 130 I think. Hard to beat that combo tbh. Slx rods are better than the dobyns Fury line IMO and for less money. For the price of a fury you can basically get the full combo going slx.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@jamesbarron1202]

Out of those reels u mentioned, which has the highest line capacity? That's important to me because I use 20 lb to 30 lb mono and that eats up a spool fast. I'm fishing heavy cover for big Texas bass and don't like being broke off. Daiwa's tend to have more line capacity on most of their reels compared to most Shimano's

[@TackleJunky81]

I'd imagine the Tatula CT.

[@Mikzone-zb6jk]

I just bought the slx 150 xg seems kinda flimsy plasticky feeling to me lol and I'm scared I'm gonna break something on it adjusting the brakes...... my first shimano....

[@LittleBirdie888]

I'm new at throwing a bait caster and I bought the Shinmano slx. The problem is my open face $19.99 combo at Walmart can cast the same distance. Why is that? My brakes are set at 3. I do have low memory line so I wouldn't back lash as much. Just not seeing a difference. I might take it back and try a Lew's Carbon Fire. Would kindly like some help. Thanks

[@TackleJunky81]

It's not about distance, it's more about the weight of lures and the lb test you need to use. Spinning gear is best for lighter line and lighter lures...it's much tougher to toss a light lure with casting gear. Bait casters are meant for heavier line with heavier lures for power fishing. I usually like anywhere from 6lb to 10lb test for spinning gear with lures up to 3/16 or so and for casting gear I like 12lb to 20lb test with lures from 1/4oz and up.

[@LittleBirdie888]

TackleJunky81 thanks for your reply and make sense. The braking system is throwing me off a little and it’s not an easy access. Would have liked a knob to turn instead of opening up a latch. What I do like it’s small and light. The rod is a Fenwick HMX which pairs up nicely.

[@BassGeek]

Yeah I need to pick one up to test for certain. Just been putting it off. Great comparison.

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you brother!

[@JoshKyleFishing]

13 fishing inception. Incredible reels. On TW best seller list

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@dogvsraptor1980]

Spend the extra $30 and get the SLX XT, it's totally worth it and almost on the same level as the Curado K.

[@TackleJunky81]

I'll be getting that one as well. 👊💪

[@dogvsraptor1980]

TackleJunky81 I’ve not thrown the OG SLX, but the XT is buttery smooth. Been using it for squarebills, chatterbaits, and spinnerbaits. Solid reel.

[@phatdogfishing7545]

Where did you get your vest jacket? Love it

[@TackleJunky81]

The brand is Gill.

[@phatdogfishing7545]

Thank you. Love the videos you put out.

[@TackleJunky81]

​@@phatdogfishing7545Appreciate you!

[@shanet9149]

Thanks for another great review. I took your advice got my Pro Qualifier 2 in the mail today. Looks like a sweet real out of the box. What do you typically use the Pro Qualifier for? What kind of line do you run in it? I'm looking at 15 pound fluoro.

[@TackleJunky81]

I've used everything from 10lb fluoro to 50lb braid...review coming soon.

[@shanet9149]

@@TackleJunky81 I will be looking forward to that. Thanks for all the advice really appreciate it.

[@TackleJunky81]

@@shanet9149 My pleasure and thanks for watching!

[@ncbuckslayer8244]

Just bought a SLX 70xg what would be the best rod to put it on for spinner baits/cranks. And what line would you recommend

[@TackleJunky81]

Hmm, that's a fast reel with a shallow spool, not what I'd use for either, but for spinner baits I like a shorter rod like a 6'9" MH with a Mod/Fast action. Usually 15 to 17lb test, but that spool won't hold a ton of line with a bigger diameter.

[@ncbuckslayer8244]

@@TackleJunky81 oh ok. So what baits should I designate that reel for? I have other reels that are slower I can use for my spinners

[@TackleJunky81]

@@ncbuckslayer8244 I have the curado 70 that I mainly use to pitch, you can get away with heavier line as a pitch is much shorter than a cast. Good jerkbait or top water reel as well. You can use it for whatever you want just remember it has limited line capacity and a reel that fast will lack power.

[@dnaguntraining25]

I know you a busy guy but can you do a review on googan line

[@butbetfishing]

what is fishing line you use it?

[@ilfishing3208]

Out of those which one would you choose?

[@TackleJunky81]

SLX is a solid reel, but I'd go with the Tatula CT, unless I'm wanting to toss lighter baits then I'd stick with the SLX.

[@peteippolito1197]

Great video, I'm thinking about purchasing this reel. Can you please tell me what rod that is?

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you Pete. It's an Okuma TCS 6'9" MH Mod/Fast action.

[@billcoerver4583]

Have you done a review on the Daiwa Steez... Thinking about getting one.

[@TackleJunky81]

I don't have one...yet! 😎

[@victorsimonsen921]

have the pq2 and the slx like the slx better the pq2 seems to backlash more and is harder to throw light baits on

[@TackleJunky81]

Personal preference, but I haven't had any issues with the PQ.

[@johnnysfishingchannel3841]

One question, does it make that sound when it casts that Shimano are notoriously known for

[@TackleJunky81]

No, this is not a DC reel. They do make an SLX DC though.

[@johnnysfishingchannel3841]

TackleJunky81 ok thank you.

[@carlfrase8097]

The SLX is quite, but the SLX DC is the one that makes the buzzing sound while casting

[@dougshelton7656]

Piscifun Phantom X reel review. Hopefully it's one you will be reviewing next year.

[@TackleJunky81]

Yes sir! 👊💪

[@trevorsmith642]

Is it a good reel for someone just getting into bait casters?

[@TackleJunky81]

For sure!

[@5.7.0bassin2]

I love my pro qualifier i am having a issue with it at the moment im not sure how to explain it but its almoat like the anti reverse is messed up if i get hung in grass and go to snap it out the reel will then pop and let line out ill see if i can make a short video and send it to ya on Instagram

[@TackleJunky81]

Ok

[@Chibecca]

When does the pro qualifier go on sale for $50? It’s on sale for $70 and right now.

[@TackleJunky81]

The classic sale which is usually Feb or March.

[@Chibecca]

Thanks for the reply.

[@TackleJunky81]

@@Chibecca 👊💪

[@drakeaamold9758]

God is good

[@bobbyswain7049]

Did it replace the Citica? I loved that reel....the older 200E is my fave

[@TackleJunky81]

I honestly don't know bud.

[@drakeaamold9758]

God is good

[@austinfusilier5114]

What rod did you have it on?

[@TackleJunky81]

Okuma TCS 6'9" MH/Mod-Fast.

[@backyardbigns7867]

Have u ever reviewed kistler reels

[@TackleJunky81]

I have not.

[@glennbowers9373]

What size rod should i pair this with?

[@TackleJunky81]

What do you plan to use it for?

[@glennbowers9373]

Just some small freshwater ponds with largemouth bass and crappies

[@TackleJunky81]

@Glenn Bowers I doubt you'll be able to toss crappie lures with this reel, but for bass a 7' MH Fast would be a great option.

[@LittlePickle47]

what rod is that? it looks cool

[@TackleJunky81]

Okuma TCS

[@LittlePickle47]

@@TackleJunky81 thanks

[@fabfishing7422]

Unable to watch right now buddy but I will catch it later for sure...no doubt a good one.. left a 👍

[@TackleJunky81]

#mydude 👊💪

[@lexingtonlad5745]

I throw 100g pike lures on this with no problems.

[@Bass23]

Good Review 👊👍

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you!

[@zoomzoomgt]

How about the quantum accurist s3??

[@sdclipz9566]

What’s that rod called man?

[@TackleJunky81]

Okuma TCS

[@solidrockoutdoors]

Review the Lews LFS ITS 100 bucks too

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@thomasliebel1833]

can you review the 13 fishing origin tx

[@TackleJunky81]

I'll check that one out. 👊💪

[@reellifewithcinco7858]

Have you ever upgraded drag discs on any reels?? #tacklejunkies have notifications on!

[@TackleJunky81]

I have not. 👊💪

[@reellifewithcinco7858]

Maybe a new video idea

[@sadblackboy4217]

Definitely go get a kastking mega jaws elite for 80-130$

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@sadblackboy4217]

@@TackleJunky81 hell yea ur awesome cause you know how good it is!

[@jacenchrisbaker]

I think if you're going to be buying a Tatula CT at retail, you might as well look at the SLX XT. I think the 30 extra bucks is well worth it for the SVS breaking alone. I own a Tatula CT and an SLX XT, both in 6:3:1, and while they are the lowest end reels I own/use, they both are WORKHORSES and I feel confident in using them for years to come.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@censai8382]

I’m trying to get this for Christmas

[@TackleJunky81]

😎

[@enkarum]

Ask for the dc I got one and it’s worth the extra money

[@censai8382]

Sorry we can’t afford that 100 is getting expensive thank you though for the recommendation

[@mikeschultz6383]

Censai Santa clause is skipping your town this year

[@exitar1]

Absolutely 👍

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@nohjeloc5462]

You ROCK✊️✊️

[@jimmylarge1148]

Bantam mgl and scorpion dc

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@jimmylarge1148]

Is that a Hellyeah!?

[@TackleJunky81]

@@jimmylarge1148 I'll check them out, I have a bunch on my list for next year already.

[@leepao6302]

I got the SLX MGL this pretty good, much lighter than all the other SLX model, but sadly this reel will never be in the USA Review Shimano SLX MGL

[@c.shoefish]

Sixgill deluge. $50...can't be beat, in my opinion, it feels like it should cost more. At the $100 price point, Abu Revo X is my personal favorite

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@gwsweet440]

Am I the only one here to see if it makes the noise before I get it

[@TackleJunky81]

It's not a DC reel so no noise, lol

[@gwsweet440]

TackleJunky81 dang is going to have to get the slx thought after watching this

[@TackleJunky81]

@@gwsweet440 Use my code to save 10% at Tackle Freaks...code is TJ81

[@pondfishingwithdylan6223]

Shimano curado k

[@doinitoutdoors184]

You dont have big hands you have a small reel

[@jacksondoughty]

Mid