PISCIFUN REELS - What Works and What Doesn't | Long-Term Saltwater Reviews

[@AdussFadass]

I’m ordering that power handle for my Thunder!! Great Idea! 💡Thank you!

[@mamihamid8187]

Took my brand new Battle II 5000 for a spin yesterday for the very first time and I hooked a 20lb yellowtail using a Ugly Stik X2 (medium hard) rod kzbin.infoUgkxM68VkfsQhHaabDce1IwOCXuvumcpbZ_k . This combo was recommended on some website and it did not disappoint me. The reel is smooth, the drag click is pretty cool cause i think it adds to the excitement of fighting the fish, personally the drag is my favorite part. I use braid and 300 yards will fill the entire spool. This combo is my main setup from now on although I have to disclose I am new to fishing.

[@alduro6505]

Love your videos. Very professional and informative.

[@Voxguitarsrock]

I've used my sweepfire for like 9 seasons now. Still going strong.

[@paulheron6581]

Thank you for the list of times for various reels. Really helped me zoom in on the. Carbon X

[@ishwithfish]

np👍🏼

[@aleenabeel8232]

Thank you so much for this review..make me educate so much .

[@yllib2012]

There are PLENTY of sponsored Piscifun reviews here. I appreciate your honesty. Thumbs up on the video.

[@howardgreen9718]

Another great video a must watch for anyone who is looking at reels for the internet 👍

[@CHUNKYCATSFISHING]

Absolutely fantastic video thank you for keeping it real 👊

[@akquicksilver]

I've fished an Honor 5000 fishing Sockeye on the Kenai River and it has held up very well. Landed over 2 dozen in the last couple weeks without a glitch.

[@ishwithfish]

edit 2/1/19: i broke my Chaos 40 trying to snare crabs with it :( it could cast 6 oz np, but after multiple heavy retrieves, the auto-engagement on the thumb bar failed and the main gear feels rough. it spins almost as if it's dry inside. i've heard that's a QA issue with this reel, will open it and see if it's salvageable. __________ Did any of these reels make my 'Tested and Approved' list? Find out! Visit www.amazon.com/shop/ishwithfish for ALL the gear I use, review, and approve. These affiliate links directly support future content. Gratitude! 🙏

[@ChrisG9978]

The Piscifun Viper X (current model) is a well-made reel. Light-weight, has a carbon fiber drag system, and holds up better than any reel I've used priced in the under-$50 range. Has the smoothest retrieve and most precise drag system compared to any reel sold on the shelves at big-box stores...absolutely much better than Penn/Abu Garcia/Pflueger models sold at big-box stores, some priced over $100. I put Viper X reels on my sons' fishing rods...they've beat them up, dunked in water may times, the reels still work like new.

[@GregHall9999]

I purchased the Carbon X 4000 .... and probably my favorite reel to use at Ocean Beach ... fast retrieval, smooth, light, holds a lot of line, and awesome drag

[@ishwithfish]

sweet! yeah that reel is pretty nice, how's it holding up in the salt?

[@GregHall9999]

@@ishwithfish I've had it for about 6 month and I've used it to catch trout at Lake Merced, but mostly use it on the beach. All my reels hold up pretty well because once I get home I hose my reel and rod and then spray WD on it. What I like about it is that it is so smooth and has a fast retrieval.

[@superwellplayed]

Do you go to Pacifica Pier? How's it holding up?

[@tronskifpv]

I had good luck with the venom for surf perch. I did disassemble and heavily grease everything before use though. great review!

[@davidsoden493]

Awesome review Ish. I like the fact it is a price point review meaning it does not favour any other brand but allows us all to differentiate our experience with similarly priced reels in our own collection. There is a lot more value coming into the lower price end of the market from the main brands (as you mentioned Pursuit III) so it is going to be more difficult for brands like Piscifun to charge 50-100 dollars for what they are offering. I can’t see them surviving unless they improve quality. Thanks again. Super review. Dave

[@ishwithfish]

thx so much. yep hopefully my inclusion of best-seller big brand models gives you better perspective of how they really perform.

[@gthomas1421]

Loving your work sir

[@emarroquin77]

I have 2 Thunders and I love them. Dontnknownhow it stacks up to the Komodo 200 class but I am more than happy with its performance and like the $100+ savings.

[@austinklein2328]

In case you didn’t know that’s more or less what those numbers mean

[@robbergstrom943]

Thanks for the great reviews! Based on your info I’m going to pick up the Chaos for my son’s (he’s 9) first trip out to the Farallons on a party boat. Low price, solid construction, and relatively low gear ratio make it a great choice and I won’t lose sleep if it ends up on the bottom. Got to find a more torquey handle though!!

[@ishwithfish]

exactly! get him the chaos 50 - good line capacity, light enough, comes with power knob, rugged. if he drops it over the rail, oh well it wasn't a $350 tranx lol. tight lines!

[@Battle-onfishing]

Hell yea bro thats awesome thanx for the tips incant wait to get mine out in water man ..

[@benjaminallen2370]

Very helpful vid, thanks much

[@anglerissues1457]

Haven't tried mine in saltwater but for freshwater it seems much better quality than your cheaper shimanos and abu Garcia's. I haven't had mine a long time though, time will tell I suppose. Great review and video! New supporter..

[@johnnahoi7019]

Thank you for the input . I watched your video at the beginning of 2000 . I ordered The Piscifun Carbon X in the 4000 and loved it . Now I have 4 of there reals and one rod . I really like my baitcasting combo a lot , Its the ,Torrent ,, nice . So any way just wanted to come back and thank you because I would of never tried Piscifun .

[@ishwithfish]

right on👌 they're the best 'online only' brand fishing reel Co imo.

[@VexxJam]

I think both video formats work well.

[@reeceadams384]

Thank you for the information I’m definitely going to get one of those thunder reels

[@ishwithfish]

check out their new Alijos, i have a couple, very nice so far👍🏽

[@reeceadams384]

I will

[@bkcsoccer9]

@@ishwithfish You still like the Alijos? Im thinking of grabbing one

[@RyJitsoup]

I own 2 carbon x reels (2000 & 4000). The weight helps out after casting lures for hours. And the Drag holds up to the Cali Stripers. 👍

[@ishwithfish]

great point, thx for sharing

[@RileyReneau]

If your here to decide between Chaos XS or KK Rover. (or various Amazon knockoffs) I just returned my Rover for a 2nd Chaos. I have a 50 and 60 size. Piscifun is unbelievable quality for the price. I primarily catfish with them in muddy clay water. They just keep on working no issues. I am NOT here to hate on Kast King. I LOVE their Rods. I have just not found a reel I love through KK yet.

[@ishwithfish]

agreed, I'm pretty impressed with piscifun quality👍

[@chazzicili3244]

I got the sweepfire a while back. Used it 3 times and it broke on me

[@emarroquin77]

Thunder out of stock on piscifun site. Happy I have 2

[@ericwhitlow7364]

Just bought a Penn Pursuit 3 in size 3000. It is amazing. Wish they made a 500 and 1000 in that model.

[@ishwithfish]

yeah we need more saltwater fast ratio 500 reels other there. ultralight surf fishing is fun 😁

[@avocado9763]

Very good. I liked it.

[@JOEOLIVASWWJ]

thks for sharing..great info..where do we send it for service...in the USA.

[@jace6555]

Great video Can't find the Handle anywhere any suggestions thanks

[@adriannavales9956]

What size aftermarket handle for the piscifun thunder? 5 x 8?

[@giovannim5101]

Cant get any warranty response called the number on the web no response.

[@huntercheng4472]

Finally a personal overview of the Piscifun Reels! I've been deciding on whether to go for the lower end ones or if i should spend slightly more for other higher end ones.

[@ishwithfish]

like anything, pay upfront, or pay later. you can def catch fish with these reels, but who knows how long they'll last. if you truly love fishing and want lifetime gear, look at shmano or daiwa for spinners and baitcasters, lews for baitcasters, and penn for conventionals. but if you're casual angler on a budget, these piscifun reels will do the job.

[@grandwonder5858]

@@ishwithfish I own 2 Lews reels and they are the worst reels I've ever owned for the money! I bought one from Dick's Sporting Goods 5 years ago but I never used it more than once because the drag is shit and can't even be adjusted! It came with a locked-up drag that goes from 0 to completely tight with a twist of the drag knob and yet it provides no drag whatsoever when the fish is pulling! And it came that way straight out of the box! I have bought $8 reels from Aliexpress before and they have much better drags than that! Not even close! The other Lews reel is much better but for the $60 that I spent on it, it can't hold a candle to the Piscifun Viper II! Be very careful to anybody watching this kind of "honest reviews" regarding products from difference countries. There is a major element of prejudice, bias, and negative psychological opinions about anything that is made in China that the reviewer himself might not even be aware of!

[@ishwithfish]

@@grandwonder5858 actually, there's some quality stuff here and there made in china. this is a sample size, try not to generalize. imo the current $100 lews mach series are great, can't speak for your models. your '!' key seems stuck fyi, is your keyboard made in china?🤔

[@robertlatham7315]

What after market handle do you have on the Chaos? I just got the Chaos XS but need a bigger handle. I contacted Piscifun and they wouldn't recommend anything.

[@ozkersnchez2368]

Will you ever do a review on the Piscifun Alijos?

[@singaporehikers]

Can you do a tear down of the spartan?

[@jamesgordon2892]

The Chaos 50 and 60 Are HOTTT!

[@sherlockbonez]

I have around 15 piscifun reels, they all have worked fine for bass, walleye pike etc. Only one with issue is the carbon x where its tough to get the handle started when it gets wet.

[@keithdoiron9718]

Swear by the stone 2000 series. My go to kayak setup pairs with a 6 "1/2 Med Heavy fast action. Perfect for targeting Stripers and Seabass off the Maine coast. Has the better rubber thumb knob, better spool, and only 50$ if you go on Amazon.

[@ishwithfish]

great feedback, thx! man, now i might have to revisit this reel since i finally got a kayak.

[@tonydillion9807]

Thanks for helping me make a choice for a gift.

[@franciscoayon9470]

What you think of the Piscifun® Salis X Trolling Reel Conventional Level Wind Reel the 5000?

[@ronaldofontano]

How about a video for the kastking reels

[@SOLITARYMAN474]

Great review, didn't know about the New Pursuit probably get one for surf. Have you tested the Piscifun Torrent or the Phantom? Looking at them as an inexpensive baitcaster that will hold 30 lb. braid for frogs.

[@ishwithfish]

I've never tried Piscifun baitcasters, but in the comments of this vid, you'll see a couple positive reviews for the Perseus. I have a Kastking Stealth and Assassin, i don't like them much. My favorite baitcaster is my lew's mach crush, awesome awesome reel (2-3x the price of these e-reels but worth every penny imo).

[@tat2man70]

Had an honor X 2000 i used for a season and a half then the bail became real sloppy and lost tension, spring was still intact, Was really happy with it till then. Bought a carbon x and after it got wet it had a sticky retrieval when finesse fishing. Took apart and cleaned and oiled. Not super impressed with it yet. Wish i could find a reel that would last a decade like the old ones!

[@jimvreyes]

So as for saltwater fishing, you'd recommend Piscifun Honor and Thunder reels?

[@ishwithfish]

if you're specifically looking for 200 size baitcaster under 75 bucks, thunder is pretty decent. i don't think there's a true saltwater spinner in piscifuns lineup except for the spartan. it's not internally sealed or anything, but with care it's a very strong and capable reel.

[@dobie333]

Piscifun Alijos reel?

[@quanloikid1]

I bought a new Daiwa Regal 2500 xia with extra spool. It has 9BB's and cost about $41 delivered. What do you think, I can cancel.

[@sfbluestar]

do you have a video on how the round reels operate?

[@ishwithfish]

I don't yet but plan on using the reel again soon, hopefully I can have a closer look.

[@RadReelingFishing]

I love it, you start out saying a cheap Diawa reel is excellent! Too funny. Great info here, thanks.

[@ishwithfish]

name brand baseline always helps 👍🏼

[@ifishcatfish]

Do u think the Chaos is OEM? There are a 1000 versions of the Abu round reel, and Kast King rover is one of them, but this one looks a little different. It's got to be, but I haven't seen one that looks quite like it..

[@ishwithfish]

I don't think it's oem. I remember scrolling through ebay one day and saw a chinese branded reel that was 90% similar, except different tension knob and a few cosmetic details. I think most of their new spinning reels (newer than Stone) are oem though.

[@ifishcatfish]

If u saw another reel, even one, its OEM. But its refreshing to at least use andifferent design.

[@billallen7716]

How do you spell phego L T?reel

[@emarroquin77]

Any insight on the new Alijos from Piscifun. 30# drag and all aluminum supposedly

[@ishwithfish]

haven't seen it, will let you know if i do!

[@DaiMasters]

I just won one from their Facebook giveaway, it should be here Monday. It's supposed to be a good inshore 300 sized baitcaster. We'll see how it does against these big southeast texas Bull Reds.

[@JuanCarlos-vt2ij]

Piscifun Honor 3000 and with all my respect, I differ with your comment about salt water and why after 2 years of immerse it in salt water while the waves break on me and also given the reel a minimum maintenance. I can say that it is an excellent reel. Only is my personal opinion as a user and of the extreme condition that i still give the reel.

[@ishwithfish]

great feedback, thx!

[@JuanCarlos-vt2ij]

@@ishwithfish thanks to you for your time

[@Orlosthedruid]

Why I choose the "Name Brand" reels over the cheap, Chinese , non established brands. 1. I can travel too any major body of water in the world; and just so you all know, I am ex-military and I have done extensive travelling with my fishing gear, and I know that if there is a tackle shop nearby....I can get parts for my reels. I have gotten parts for my Penn's and Shimano's in the P.I.'s, Korea, Japan, Hawaii, Guam, New Zeland, Australia, Belize, London, Berlin, ports in Sweden, Iceland, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Panama. the majority of the parts I have needed were drag washers, worm gear, follower pin, and line guides on my heavy trolling gear, and on my spinning gear, drag washers, bearings, handles, etc. When you buy a reel that cost over $200...you want to keep it and take care of it, and the parts availability of these reels is unmatched. And to be honest, when you are on a blue water vessel, and you hook into something, chances are its a tuna or mackeral, and big ones tear your sh*t up. 2. My reels are dead easy to work on BY DESIGN. These are commercial type, professional reels, and they do need to be cared for. Luckily, the makers knew that and designed them with ease of assembly in mind. Z series spinners. Senators, etc. 3. Due to the availability of the parts, the same parts are also affordable. I dont think any of the Chinesium gear is of this level...yet.

[@pablo-hp9sw]

Chaos 40 is good for light jigging (tai,inchikus...) 80gr maximum?.....thanks 💪

[@pablo-hp9sw]

In which of your videos do you use it?....do you remember?

[@1000anavales]

Hey ish. Nice review. I own a piscifun thunder and am trying to upgrade the handle. You mentioned eBay? Do you have the name of the manufacturer? Thanks in advance

[@ishwithfish]

i added link in description for you. looks like that listing ended, but i'm sure you can find that model on another listing.

[@AdussFadass]

adie Just got a power handle for my Thunder. It’s the same brand but my knob is more round.

[@1000anavales]

@@AdussFadass Nice!! Do you happen to have a link? How do you like it!

[@louisoctaviojr6876]

I have a Thunder and LOVE IT! Best all around Salt-Fresh reel and was my 1st baitcaster ever. I feel spoiled. But now i want a Alijos for just Salt. Should i get another Thunder or buy the Alijos? Just want your opinion thats all.

[@ishwithfish]

Get the Alijos, 100%. I caught a 26lb sturgeon with it, no problem. Vids on my channel if you wanna see it in action👌🏽

[@louisoctaviojr6876]

Thank you for the time you take to do these videos. Great detail and really help. Also i am looking for the handle too. I have 2- Carbon X, a Torrent, and Thunder. No problems with any of these.

[@M.Redsky]

for ultra light application, which is best: Carbon X 1000 or Daiwa Revros 1000?

[@ishwithfish]

I have the carbon x 1000, it's nice and a little smaller than revros, but the daiwa drag is much better.

[@jasonbrinson20091983]

Piscifun carbon x or one of the kastking reels or a diawa bg??????

[@ishwithfish]

BG, all day. hands down the best reel under 100. carbon x if you're looking for finesse stuff tho, it's actually pretty nice.

[@aquaticweeb1723]

The thunder was replaced by the Alijos

[@RH-qk5lt]

Absolutely. I've put The carbon X thru it's paces. Caught many snook, reds, trout, black drum, jacks and also freshwater bass, walleye, crappie and I can't wait until fall to try it out on king salmon in the harbors of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. The Carbon X isn't a Fuego. Love the Fuego LT! But I've not been able to buy another Fuego anywhere for the $70+ price of the carbon X if you take advantage of Piscifun buy two reel deal. Another one you need to try is the Piscifun Alijoz. That's a fantastic bait caster with big smooth drag, great castability , a bit big but with the drag and capacity...understandable, good feel with Fast jigging, blue water capability. Love the power handle too. I'm not a reel reviewer per say just an admitted reel-aholic and new Piscifun fan. Piscifun?? If you're reading this, Please get the Alijoz 300 8.1:1 available on your web site ! I've been waiting and watching to buy another!.

[@ishwithfish]

Great feedback, thx! imo the carbon x is one of the best 'online brand' spinners I've every used, I just wish it was 30% cheaper since there's limited parts support. I got a couple Alijos 8.1 reels and dig them! I recently caught a king salmon and a white sturgeon with mine, check my recent vids. One thing though - the drag could be smoother. I usually use a lexa 300 for sw stuff and it's drag is flawless, but I noticed the Alijos sticks under moderate pressure. Best to err on the light side of the drag dial so things don't get too jerky. Otherwise nice well-made alternative to my more expensive Lexa, Komodo SS, and Tranx.

[@RH-qk5lt]

@@ishwithfish Yeah, I own and love the Lexa 400 HD . But it's a $250+ reel. vs $100 Alijoz. Every reel conversation is relevant to price. I'll have to check out all of your videos. I live 2hrs from Lake Michigan so I do a lot of salmon fishing. And wish I lived in SW Florida because I travel there to fish every chance I get.

[@sherlockbonez]

I have the alijo for my frog rod.

[@naniche133]

Can I ask you about the Alijos 300 I m very confused, Is it suitable for vertical jigging?

[@ishwithfish]

yes! its a great reel. for vertical jigging i recommend the 5.1 speed with power knob.

[@naniche133]

@@ishwithfish the 8.1 ratio is better with 93cm by tour ?

[@buccboy68]

Piscifun reels are made in China in the same factory as Diawa. The Carbon X is the same frame and bearing material as the Tatula spinning reel. The Viper X is the same frame, bearing, and seal material as the Fuego LT. Piscifun produces high-quality fishing reels similar to reels priced much higher. Manufactured by the same companies that produce Abu Garcia and Diawa fishing equipment, Piscifun reels are built to the same precise standards and are an excellent valued reel for experienced and beginner fishermen.

[@ishwithfish]

not that I don't believe you, but can you support your manufacturing claim? I've heard that before but can never verify it.

[@buccboy68]

@@ishwithfish I googled it. I was looking at them and it popped up but take too long to order and read that there customer service isn't good.

[@haydenralph5637]

The thing you hoked up on in Hawaii was a ulua

[@PaulyV56]

my Rover 40 50 series line lay is horrible . piles up to one side.

[@willietraynor7069]

How many yards of 40# braid were you able to get on that?

[@ishwithfish]

hi, which reel?

[@willietraynor7069]

Ish With Fish the Thunder

[@ishwithfish]

iirc, i think i got about 220 yds of 40 lb daiwa j-braid, and a bit of 20 lb mono backing under it.

[@fordraven5884]

I think the chaos one will be great for catfishing

[@ishwithfish]

uggh yes, exactly this!🤦‍♂️ i forgot to mention this reel is perfect for multiple bait runner style fishing, like catfish, carp, sturgeon, etc. cheap, easy to cast, durable imo, thx for the reminder.

[@alexanderteambillywynn6900]

By far thunder is the best I have dropped mine in the salt several times and it still is kicking. Much more salt resistant than there other reels. When it comes to the drag on it, it’s extremely choppy, pull the washers out grease on them and it’s amazing. I have landed yellows on mine. Good idea with the handle, I just got a carbon fiber one off Aliexpress for 15$!

[@ishwithfish]

right on, agreed! thunder is a sleeper. great recommendation on the drag improvement. that handle is dope, love mine😁

[@Battle-onfishing]

I Just bought one yesterday really exited !!! what dontouvguys have it paired with ? now that i have a reel nees to find a rod for it

[@alexanderteambillywynn6900]

Ricardo Gutierrez depends I fish mine in the saltwater for calico bass.

[@ishwithfish]

i have mine on a trevala tvc66mh for rockfish.

[@alexanderteambillywynn6900]

Ish With Fish good for rockfishing in my opinion, it is a versatile reel. Would recommend the handle upgrade if you are roc fishing, the stock handle feels small for that application. I have mine on a Turners tackle 7ft California rod, 10-30lb line rating. Great casting reel for plastics as light as 1/2oz and flings Diawa SP minnows a mile. 7.1 ratio is perfect for that shit, if you have problems hit me up I have pulled apart many of there reels replaced parts/upgraded. Good luck bud season just opened go get um 🤙

[@quanloikid1]

Would the piscifun spartan 2500 be a good buy new at $63.00 new if it were available?

[@ishwithfish]

i would, it's a pretty durable reel for $60 if you need a high speed spinner.

[@quanloikid1]

@@ishwithfish Would you buy it?

[@ishwithfish]

@@quanloikid1 🤔 know what? nah. with the battle iii coming out, the battle ii will be discounted for not much more than the price of the spartan, with 100000x the amount of replacement parts on market. spend a little more for a discounted battle ii👍🏼

[@quanloikid1]

@@ishwithfish Appreciate the frankness. Thank you, from a lyin' dirty dogface pony soldier(Cavalry). I knew what Captain Fingers meant even if he didn't.

[@gustavomarcato1689]

What's your opinion? Daiwa Revros A 5BB vs Daiwa Revros LT 5BB vs Daiwa Legalis 5BB vs Kastking Sharky III

[@ishwithfish]

in this range the legalis lt is hard to beat👍

[@gustavomarcato1689]

​@@ishwithfish how do you like Shimano NEXAVE HG 3+1BB, 6:2:1? I think I’m going to pick up one of those. Thanks Bro.

[@joshbassett1551]

Do you have the link for the power handle?

[@ishwithfish]

hi, it should be at reelpowerhandles.com

[@joshbassett1551]

Cool thanks

[@marcosprieto2268]

Thanks for the video. Honor xt or Carbon X? Thanks

[@ishwithfish]

carbon x, for an 'off- brand' its pretty decent👍🏼

[@marcosprieto2268]

@@ishwithfish many thanks

[@ericvillano5729]

Any opinions on the Kast King Sharky?

[@ishwithfish]

Tbh ive only heard good things about the sharky iii, except that the drag can be sticky. I've never tried one though.

[@ericvillano5729]

@@ishwithfish Thanks for your opinions, and help. I am also looking at the Penn Pursuit and Fierce, which aren't as pricey as the Spinfisher or Battle.

[@gilangst8244]

So piscifun storm, saltwater or freshwater ?

[@ishwithfish]

no piscifun reel has internal sealing, so be careful with any of their reels in salt.

[@SaltySLICK]

Ish how you like those picifun reels?

[@ishwithfish]

truthfully, i think they're the best ebranded reels i've used. none have failed, they re smooth, balanced, built well enough. the 3 i mention at the end i would purchase if i didn't already have them. maybe even the carbon x of it was on sale below 50.

[@dakotad5479]

Do you ever have problems with your baitcasters slipping while reeling in fish? Every time it happens I tighten my drag and It still slips when reeling In the fish. I own 2 of the alijos and 2 torrents and it's happened with both of them.

[@ishwithfish]

know what? my chaos started slipping and started failing 6 months ago when i tried to take it snaring. my thunder is running perfect though. i just got an alijos, i'll keep an eye on it👍🏼

[@PamelaKivi]

The Thunder is actually the Haibo Overlord reel. Maybe Haibo made them stop selling on amazon?

[@ishwithfish]

or most likely they just order their version of that reel from the same chinese manufacturer, and piscifun couldn't sell enough units to justify the amazon listing. still a solid reel imo.

[@PamelaKivi]

@@ishwithfish I have an overlord going on its third season of constant abuse....its a tank!

[@ishwithfish]

agreed!👍

[@GhettoSuguru]

Dude are you gonna review the curado dc

[@ishwithfish]

prob not since i don't have one nor use baitcasters too often.

[@GhettoSuguru]

@@ishwithfish damn hope you get one to review

[@dakota-7984]

I bought the carbon x about 3 weeks ago and when reeling in it was feeling stuck after about 5 trips. I emailed there customer service and they said to watch maintenance video so I did and as I was taking the drag dial off a tiny piece of metal fell out, so I put the dial back on and it no longer clicks. I emailed them again asking for a refund or replacement and they said I didn’t properly maintain it even tho it was used for about a total of 8 times. I will never purchase anything from them again.

[@ishwithfish]

ah man sorry to hear, thx for the feedback👍🏼

[@HeyitsMartyn]

Had the same issue with the drag dial breaking. Thankfully mine was still returnable via Amazon. Shame really as the rest of the reel was blissful.

[@josephtube24]

Would you ever consider selling the Spartan? I would love to mate that to a rod that I have in need of a spinning reel to hunt for yellowtail at La Shores, California. I just love the color combo of that Spartan, would match my blue Hobie kayak well. Also your input of handling a 35 lb bat ray is amazing, speaks volumes of is toughness.

[@ishwithfish]

hi, you're in luck. a sub sent me this link, looks like they still have inventory of the larger sizes in stock overseas. cheap too! this reel is strong, don't dunk it and keep it greased and i think it'll be a work horse www.aliexpress.com/item/Piscifun-Spartan-Saltwater-Spinning-Reel-Full-Metal-Body-20KG-Drag-Boat-Fishing-Reel-with-13BBs-6/32863844655.html?spm=2114.search0604.3.9.e25c6075nTSGMf&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_3_10065_10068_10130_10890_10547_319_10546_10548_317_10545_10696_453_10084_454_10083_433_10618_431_10307_537_536_5736111_5736011_10059_10884_10887_100031_321_322_10103,searchweb201603_35,ppcSwitch_0&algo_expid=501428e7-d1e6-4a75-bbfb-e116d3e6eea7-1&algo_pvid=501428e7-d1e6-4a75-bbfb-e116d3e6eea7

[@josephtube24]

Ish With Fish man you are the best, thank you got sharing! Im a very BIG fan of your videos, they are so very helpful. The best fun vid I watch of you so far was on the motorcycle in Hawaii where you slipped and fell, not making fun of it but I used to be a motorcycle guy myself so I can relate. Keep up the great vids, your reviews help out alot

[@JOBAHT]

Nice review! I've just searched AliExpress for spartan and thunder and they are both available there. You can probably find all gear that piscifun sells on AliExpress. I think that here in Europe we buy more gear over AliExpress than you guys over big pond. Don't be afraid there is a ton of far east produced cheap gear on that web site, and usually they ship it for free or for small postage.

[@ishwithfish]

good to know! thx so much. you're right, i don't think most people defer to aliexpress as much in the states, so i was going by amazon availability.

[@JOBAHT]

@@ishwithfish after this I've watched your video with that big ray and some other videos with Spartan and I've started considering to buy it for freshwater fishing. I need a reel around 3000 size but if I saw it correctly spartan 3000 and 4000 are almost the same just a 10 more meters of same diameter line fits on larger reel, and there is difference in the shape of the handle.

[@katomba3]

Great review that is time saving :)

[@ericvillano5729]

I've been looking at some Piscifun products on Aliexpress. I'm looking for a decent, "bang for the buck," spinning reel in the 6-8000 series range that won't break me. I would really like to buy something of the quality of a Diawa BG, Penn Spinfisher, or Penn Battle without going broke. Recently I got burned buying a couple Yumoshi reels I was sadly disappointed in. I know you have done an extensive amount of research, experimentation, and many reviews on here, and just wondering what you recommend.

[@ericvillano5729]

A friend recommended an Okuma Safina, and also wondering your thoughts on those. Any suggestions for any good low priced saltwater spinning reel would be greatly appreciated.

[@ericvillano5729]

I need to buy 4, which could be an expensive proposition. One for me, my son, daughter and wife. We would like to plan a surf fishing trip this spring, and would need to buy 4 rod and reel combos suitable for surf fishing for blues and stripers on the Jersey shore.

[@ishwithfish]

hmm so many choices. if you're looking for cheap durable 3000-4000 reels, check out the okuma epixor xt. if you need value in bigger reels, check out the okuma avenger reels. pretty cheap but durable, esp the baifeeder model.

[@ericvillano5729]

Thanks, Ish. Will check them out. Was looking into getting 4 reels (and 8 ft surf rods) in the 6000 series + range. I will check those out, for sure. Thank you, friend.

[@cuddlingpaws6812]

What you think of kastking and piscifun reels, are they good or waste, cause I see good reviews which may be paid with free equipment

[@ishwithfish]

in my overall experience, piscifun makes better reels. still budget class tho. if you have a budget of $60+ tho, daiwa shimano penn will be better.

[@grandwonder5858]

@@ishwithfish BS! My $60 Piscifun reel is actually smoother and lighter than the Penn and Shimano reels that I owned! And I have owned dozens of the Penn and Shimano reels over the years and years that I have been fishing! Trust me, unless you want to waste $200 on a Penn reel, go with a Piscifun reel of similar size because the quality is the same --- except the Piscifun is a little lighter in weight!

[@dookiebutt5011]

plz do a sturgeon vid

[@ishwithfish]

i'm trying ... 3 skunks in a row so far😭 hopefully one day soon🤞🏻

[@briansumma528]

FYI the Piscifun Chaos 40 is going for $49.97 on Amazon not $40.

[@ishwithfish]

you're right, but i think they're a tick cheaper on piscifuns own website? plus they always have an instant 15% coupon, so i think the 40 can had for 40 before shipping.

[@cross_fire_]

I'm looking into the spinning reels. I have a phantom casting reel with the serpent rod. It performs better than some of my 400 dollar combos. I'm about to get a carbon x 3000 and I hope it I is just as good.

[@caliyak_fishing]

Piscifun and Ardent are made in the same factory.

[@ericcruzstealth]

No shimanos?

[@ishwithfish]

this was just a review of the piscifun line👍

[@josephlassiter1412]

My chaos broke in like 5 fishing trips

[@ishwithfish]

dude mine broke a few months after this vid😭 upvoting for awareness

[@Julianmunoz2]

Kastking rover 60

[@biavonmitchell6966]

PT-BR please

[@alex111683]

Piscifun have been the best "ebrand"/clone reels I have used BUT at their price points, they just aren't worth it. Especially when you can get a Pfleuger President for $50, daiwa Fuego LT for $75-90, a daiwa bg for under 100, and okuma epixor for $50-60. They just put themselves in competition with those amazing reels at those price points.

[@ishwithfish]

agreed! i think they price their reels to inflate perceived value a bit, but tbh if they priced everything 20% below market competition i think they would make more money. kind of like how IKEA furniture is priced; its cheap but decent enough that they sell more stuff than anyone.

[@stevensarabia3221]

Just wondering? why you spend that much money on those reels, when you could get a few really good reels with all that money that you through away on untested reels! Personally I like Daiwa and I don't mind spending money on something I know and trust. But thanks for your honest opinion.

[@backlever0852]

He got them sent to him lol if you payed attention to the beginning of the video you would have saw that

[@eves08109]

Speaking of value, the Penn Battle ll is over priced for sure. I wish back in 2015 when I bought it I went and got the Fierce instead which is more appropriate for it's price. The Battle 6000 back then was $120. I think the same size Fierce was $70.

[@Cnacu6o.]

Piscifun Carbon X is best reel ever made? Are you sure?

[@ishwithfish]

lol who said that? decent reel, kinda overpriced imo.

[@grandwonder5858]

There is a reason why many of the Piscifun reels share the same looks and designs as other reels from the world --- most of them are made in the same Chinese factories! Slap a label that says "Made in USA" on any of these reels and put a "Penn" logo on them and this guy is going to say how great all of these reels are! Maybe it's psychological, maybe it's propaganda against anything that is Chinese in the USA! Anyway, I own 2 Piscifun reels and they still hold up despite the abuses I give them and that is all that matters to me!

[@christopherwood2290]

"Propaganda against Chinese"? Most stuff made in mainland China is cheap for a reason. It is garbage.

[@JVRottweil]

My Revo was made in China an so were my Lews. Where are you finding sub 300 dollar reels that are made in the US?

[@elmerparedes1105]

Surprised they didn't send you a Perseus. It's a good baitcaster for the money. Used to for halibut, rockfish, and socal seabass. Piscifun is deff a good "Amazon brand" and is way better than Kastking in my personal experience. Great for begginers and for casual fishers who don't

[@ishwithfish]

tbh im just getting into baitcasters for lures, so up until now, i was only accepting spinners and bottom jigging setups. if they still want to work me after this vid lols, i'll ask for that sample and put it to work.

[@elmerparedes1105]

Deff get yourself one from them if you can. Amazon no long carries them but are still available through Piscifun. With this reel, I prob get only 1 minor birdsnest per 60 casts (due to brake and tensior not being set up correctly for the lure wt.), which isn't bad for someone who predominantly uses spinners.