Who makes the best baitcasting reels? - I know I found one of the worst reels on the market!

[@blakecanada1011]

Hands down the only $40 reel that I’ve used is the Abu Garcia black max, I’ve had that reel for 4 years and abused the hell out of it every weekend and hasn’t failed on me yet, still just as smooth as the day I’ve bought it and has a damn good drag on it!

[@jonathanpena57]

Thanks for your input baby

[@jigsawalwayswins8636]

Amen brother

[@fishingthe262]

This is a great video. I bought the original Kastking Legend Royale a couple years ago out of curiosity. It was a decent reel for $40. It had dual brakes and actually has a brass main gear. It casted well and the drag was solid, despite being cosmetically cheap. Heck it even held up to 20 pound class chinooks on Lake Michigan. Now they charge double, use cheap gears and only magnetic brakes. For my money it’s tough to beat a Shimano Citica. The things are rock solid and come in around $149. Perfect reels for the weekend warrior.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Shimano is a strong company with great products!

[@tbaz1990]

A main reason why I watch KZbin videos on products is for honest opinions. So I appreciate this. Great video 👌

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks T Wells I appreciate it!

[@russellbelanger565]

I'm actually glad you did this. Most amateur anglers can tell the difference between junk and quality but there are still guys out there that will fall prey to the industries marketing tactics. The best advice novice tournament anglers can get is this: you don't need 20 rods to compete. Save your $39 and put it towards a reliable high quality product that you can use for years to come. In years past, I've bought some garbage thinking it will fill out my rod locker at a lower cost. I can honestly say it was a tremendous waste of money. 3-4 quality setups is much more valuable than 10 garbage rigs. I should add that I've never bought anything this bad! haha That Screeching sound... Oh My.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Good points made Russell!

[@davidregan9872]

Russell I bought a Quantum reel years ago that I spent around $70 for, and it was JUNK! My wife just got me an Abu Garcia 5500 C3 for my b day. I'm hoping it works good for Steelhead!

[@daleporter9162]

As my grandfather used to ALWAYS say..."you get what you pay for."

[@TwiztedFishingTv]

Great buyer beware! Good lookin out on the honesty!! I have been approached by a few of these companies, I've just not found it worth biting. I have bought cheaper off brand reels on my own and tried them out, some work out, others not so much. Kast King and Piscifun seem to be the best of the cheaper brands so far. That's based off using both for the season, price and decent customer service. Just how many seasons they hold up we will see. Thanks for the excellent review!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Piscifun just sent me there product as well so I am looking forward to testing out the line up

[@fyffeal]

I bought a piscifun just to see what it was about and it was complete junk. Yet on youtube it is highly promoted for the reasons you spoke of. what I hate is that they are promoting to kids and beginners that don't realize that they are getting ripped off. selling cheap shit to people that don't know better is terrible. glad to see somebody finally speaking out about it. good for you. I just subscribed!!!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

LOL I just got an email from Piscifun and they sent me a rod and reel to try out....video to follow :)

[@fyffeal]

Thanks for the heads up. ill be watching for it. the one I got was a phantom and the clutch was broke right out of the box. somtimes it would engage in the middle of a cast and other times it wouldn't disengage when the handle was turned. maybe I just got a bad one but all said, its still a plastic Chinese reel, and for only $30 more I got a shimano slx which is very solid...... thanks for the update. tight lines

[@ZacharyGalloway]

Thank you. I have seen these reels and there line promoted on some other channels compared to Lews and Shimano. Always knew this was the case because if a product is good it will sell itself. So many of these Company's using these "predatory" tactics to get some of these people to sell out. Most of these people promoting these never use them at all. Video=Payment and repeat with every company offering. Thinking back to when i was younger i would see these videos and beg my mom and dad to buy these items and waste there hard earned dollars on junk. Thank you as you are the first person to step up and tell the truth. Hands down favorite youtuber in the world right now.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks for your comment! You make some great points!

[@BeaglerBassFishingOutdoors]

Wow.. that reel is not even good enough to be a paper weight... Your sarcasm is about my level!! Cool vid!

[@BravoBassin]

love your tackle wall in the backround brother! and good video on this topic as well it is good information on things you need to watch out for when having companies trying to get you to use or promote there products.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Suer do, Thank you for the comments!

[@BravoBassin]

@@SmallmouthCrush Ya man always enjoy your videos keep up the good work and hope to run into some day on the water.

[@omarhill7345]

I have a old kastking baitcaster reel that cost me $40 and it never sounded like the reel you have and i still have it and it’s never let me down,i take it apart and clean it every year. The only thing i don’t like is you have to put the cast control knob tight to slow down your rate of fall for the lure your using (fixed that problem,the O-ring was just a tad to big).

[@tommymckiddy189]

That was the absolute worst sounding reel I've ever heard! Fishing that thing would drive me crazy.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

YUP! Grinderrrr

[@teddybroosevelt6826]

No the youtuber was the worst.

[@rafterwind]

no doubt that reel was junk But do you have to spend $200.00 for a quality reel that will last? Hell NO. Pushing products goes both directions

[@brettanderson2849]

All the lews speed spools run 80-100 and are some of the best reels I use. They handle small squarebills, weightless worms, 10xds, and everything else I throw perfectly. I would recommend for anyone on a budget

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Yes Lews make a great product!

[@BigBearFishing]

I agree 100%! If a company wants you to review a product, the product in question should be reviewed honestly. Honest reviews are the only way to figure out if it is a good product or not.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Yes for sure! Thanks for the comment!

[@BigBearFishing]

@@SmallmouthCrush You got it man! Happy New Year!

[@shawnbeck2303]

Quantum Pulse Bait caster reel! $39.00. Ugly Stick medium heavy $36.00. $75.00 tops. Great cheap combo. Shawn

[@andrewzellar777]

Been away for a little while for the Army so I am catching up on the videos! Been binge watching and this video cracks me up!! So many products have hit the market that are just junk. I love these videos. A video on industry and help/advice for a new or newer tournament angler as far what circuits to fish would be great! As always Great Video!

[@andrewzellar777]

Also, I like the bass pro line up for baitcasters. Have had great luck and success with all the different models, the spinning reels are a little more suspect.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Andrew, I remember you commenting in some of my earlier videos, so I appreciate it!

[@MrMosebysLobby]

it sounds like 2 turtles that were smoking 50 years getting it on loudly. that fucking grind is unbearable. Ill stick with my way outdated Daiwa PT10 Tournament Edition with my Megabass Destroyer

[@SmallmouthCrush]

LOL

[@MXRyder09]

Growing up fishing for many years and spending a lot of money on inexpensive or gadgetry lures I realized, maybe a bit late, that you usually get what you pay for. I wasn't until I matured and advanced in my career that I felt this way and no one wants to waste time and money on inferior products. I appreciate an honest review, and so should the manufacturer of this product so they can use your input to better their product. As far as replacing your reels next year I have been happy with Diawa spinning reels. You could always bring your favorite reels in store too to get a side by side comparison. Great video!!!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Very true!

[@buellrichmond2842]

I just recently bought a Daiwa Fuego for 69 bucks, they retail for 99 dollars. I'm extremely happy with it. I have some used 200 dollar reels that were made in 2015, 2016. I think the Daiwa Fuego is way better than those. What would be a good high end reel in the 200 dollar range?

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Shimano Curados are great in that range

[@ryanbauman353]

This might be off topic but who mounted your fishing sonars and what mounts did you use? They look to be working in 100% efficiency while being mounted extremely sturdy and not needed to be tightened up after every other run like many other mounts made.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Mechanic Ryan did the work...he is too good to fix my stuff now every since he made the all american

[@xDx0xUxGx]

Had to chuckle about your $200 reel comment considering it took me 2 months to talk myself into a $200 combo...

[@CookingandFishing]

The problem is a lot of these people confuse "promotional" staff with "professional" staff, and "sponsorship" with discount codes. They get a free POS reel and they think they've arrived on the scene. I started getting emails like that from OEM companies when I had 2k subs...offering free lego reels and discounts on string cheese braid...no thanks! An army of youtubers/influencers looking to flush their credibility down the drain for garbage gear and discounts on garbage gear...it's a sad, sad reality in the tackle industry today.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Very good points! I agree

[@edseegert71]

Love your videos dude. Your by far one of the best fishing channels on KZbin. The sound of that reel was insane lol. I literally had to turn the volume down, it was like fingernails on a chalk board! Not trying to nitpick, but I've noticed when you're in the studio the audio is in mono, but any other time it's in stereo. Just wanted to let you know. Keep up the the great work and we'll see you on the water.😉

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks for the compliments and the comments!

[@HawgSnatchin]

Review is spot on and they asked for it. Unreal people latch on to junk and get taken advantage of like that. Thanks for the candor Travis and keep it coming… big part of why I love your videos

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Snatcher! Will do

[@texoma_outdoors]

I had reservations about the equipment of a relatively new company as well. I waited read lots of mostly positive reviews and finally ordered a couple of the reels they are discontinuing in favor of the newer models. They were dirt cheap this way and I've been pleasantly surprised, it's good equipment for the money at regular prices. The only thing that has been sour in my experience was when one of the owners tried to bully people to order more on black Friday. Threats that essentially said "we're known now so we're jacking our prices to match or surpass other established companies". Just rubbed me the wrong way. Great video as always @SmallmouthCrush

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks James!

[@KrisD93]

You are the man Travis. Nice to see a quality fisherman put these guys on blast and give us the truth of how marketing works in the fishing industry. Looking forward to more of your vids! (I still cant believe they expected a good outcome approaching you. They should've known from your previous videos that you are a tackle nut, and everything needs to be the best LOL ! )

[@SmallmouthCrush]

THanks Kristian!

[@richshackelford5793]

Keeping it real Travis, if it good say it's good if it's a piece of shit say it's a piece of shit. I will take honesty over greed any day

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Right on Rich!

[@bobbylee9000]

I returned 7 different reels (Piscifun)+(13 fishing origin) in the past 4 months through Amazon. You are spot on with the phony ratings. These reels do not perform anything like the listing states or the reviews show. After a few uses you know they are going to break. I am especially disappointed at 13 fishing origin reels. Bought 2 of them, both did not function as listed. Thanks for your vid

[@60hmariner]

I am a Shimano guy. I have tried other great reels like 13 fishing concepts, diawa and some others. But I always come back to Shimano specifically the E models. Love them, had them for years and they still kick ass, they are hard to find these days so when I do find one I buy them up.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Shimano knows reels that is for sure, thanks the comments!

[@livinglife3230]

Can’t go wrong with shimano. I’ve tried daiwa steez and tatula reels, always come back to the aldebaran and metanium baitcast reels

[@laurenezzyk7349]

No lie the pflueger president spinning reel is solid and only $60

[@SmallmouthCrush]

I used pflueger in the past and had good experience with their products.

[@staleek100]

Im right with you Lauren Ezzyk. I have 3 President XT spinning reels and they are great! Sure they're not quite as light and smooth as my Shimano Ultegra, but I can use them all day without any problems with the bail or drag and the cork handles are a big plus for me comfort-wise.

[@davewilliams8031]

I own 4 they are great

[@BigDaddysPlati]

I agree I love how smooth my Pflueger is.

[@Bassandbackpacks]

Been fishing with only those for 20+ years. Best reel for the money I always tell people I have one that about 20 years old and still smooth as silk.👍👌

[@bigfishbucketlist]

You've put a lot of my thoughts into words perfectly. When I first started getting into bass fishing, I saw the jerseys, pro staffers, and thought "Wow! Look at all these amazing anglers!" I wanted to be just like them. I developed as an angler, got into kayak fishing, and participated in my first club series in 2017. Thinking I was going to get destroyed by all the "pros" in their $3k kayaks, I won the first tournament I entered with my $800 paddle kayak, 4 rods to my name, and no company attached to my name. I went on to win AOY that year and came to the realization that a lot of that stuff is noise. I continued to develop as a kayak angler (am still working to get better every day) and began searching out a pro staff position. I reached out to many companies I had never heard of looking for an opportunity to get my "foot in the door" so to speak. I was offered many pro staff positions and declined them all when I came to the realization that the offers were a joke. They will offer pro staff positions to literally anyone based on their ridiculous terms (for example minimum purchases to be made annually for a 10% discount). I also learned that I couldn't promote products I didn't truly believe in just because of a freebie or discount. I have lost respect for some great anglers because they have attached their name to garbage brands and it's just not worth it! I am now on 2 promotional staffs: Jackson Kayak and Eagle Claw. Why? Because Jackson makes my favorite kayak and Eagle Claw makes my favorite hooks. Also Shimano makes my favorite reels, Seaguar makes my favorite lines, and I'm still testing out rods to determine my favorite but I like Shimano and Dobyns the most so far out of what I've used. Duckett used to be my favorite rods and currently make up most of my arsenal but I think I will be moving away from them in future purchases. Long story short, be honest with yourself about what gear you like, only attach your name to a company you believe in, and don't do it for the discount. Great video. Subscribed.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Big Fish! Great comments and I enjoyed your story! Thanks for the sub!

[@hobo7070]

Great video. I appreciate the honesty. There are A LOT of junk and “knock off” reels available. Online retailing has made it easy for dubious companies to sell junk. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. I’d rather save and buy a quality reel that will last 20 years than a budget reel that needs to be replaced every year (if I can get a year). I’m glad you didn’t sell out to the corporate money.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks HOBO I wish that wasn't the case and it worked well but not going to be the deal

[@Retro-2-now]

I use Kastking products and they have outlasted some of the high end stuff I’ve owned. So, you can get good reels between $40-$90 but there are companies out there that sell crap

[@s10v8dude]

I agree, I started off with a Blackmaxx and a couple of kastking reels. I learned that I liked the extra control of the dual braking system. I then picked up a Lews Mach crush and liked it so much I ordered 2 more. They were on sale for half off, no brainer. I still use the 2 kastkings and they have held up well, but I keep eyeing the higher end Lews haha.

[@TheTravelingFisherman]

Those reels are trash! I've used majority of them, was a brand ambassador... Shimano for the Win

[@OfficialFedHater]

@@TheTravelingFisherman Kastking and Piscifun are very good reels for the money. No, they're not Daiwa or even Lew's, but they're not trash. They're definitely great for the money for people just getting into fishing, or who can't afford to put a high dollar reel on every rod they have.

[@TheTravelingFisherman]

@@OfficialFedHater i stick to what I said, trash

[@OfficialFedHater]

@@TheTravelingFisherman You're free to be wrong.

[@baseballgod8065]

I am never trusting amazon reviews ever again. Thank you!

[@andrewsmedley2747]

Here is a few baitcasting reels I have found served me well for 4-5 years of fishing, about 60 days a year on the water. Lowest price - Abu Garcia Silver Max $50. My personal recommendation for someone wanting to buy their first baitcaster, simple, cheap, decent quality. Middle price point - Bass Pro's Pro Qualifier line up (about $100) or Abu Garcia Revo S ($80-140 on amazon). These I have found the most "bang for your buck". Once you break in a Revo S, I find it casts about 80-90% of a curado when adjusted appropriately. Last - Shimano Curado lineup (>150$), if you want something that is smooth as silk to cast and performs under constant abuse this is your reel.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks for the tips Andrew

[@jo24pafisher]

Shimano Caenan Gen1 was 79$ and was basically the same exact thing as the curado, caius, citica, saltyone.... they all share the same frame, interchangeable side plates, parts, gears handles... the only differences are frame material, color, handle/grips, bearing quality... I’ve personally interchanged parts to have a green and silver side plate with a black frame. Even the Caius at 60$ was pretty damn good for the price.

[@jasonperry5456]

Keep pumping out the videos. I enjoy them.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Jason!

[@coltonblombergfishing4445]

This is fucking awesome! I love how honest you are man glad I can trust you.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

LOL thanks!

[@1961fireguy]

Try the Lew's Custom Lite reel! It is a fantastic reel and as the name implies, very light. It is in the high 200s but it is a high quality piece of equipment. Keep callin' em as you see em!

[@cesarmedrano3344]

Hey man, nice video! These telemarketers are crazy out of their mind and the thing is that most selling websites (Amazon, etc.) don't seem to regulate that. I had a similar experience, but with a laser pointer; when I received the laser pointer I noticed that it was junk and it was not even the one I ordered, so I wrote a 1-star review. The seller directly contacted me and offered me three new laser pointers for free as long as I remove my comments. Well, I didn't remove my comments and I even reported the seller to Amazon. Buyers, be careful out there, and this goes for everything you buy, not just fishing reels.

[@Dyshof]

I'm here in CH no sound except on the boat....what's happening?

[@andrewthomas4399]

I liked the video man it’s nice to get an honest opinion. I myself partnered with Ark Rods, but not until after I had been fishing with the rods for awhile.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

That is the way to do it!

[@GuppyGTmoney]

i have two chinese baitcaster for $20 each. compares to my LEWS speed reel is so bad but i still used it for jig and swimbait . but i will never use for lighter lures.

[@wdaniels87]

Thanks for being honest! Way too many youtube/instagram anglers are all about "pro staff" and pushing whatever product they get 10% off to promote. I watched a livestream last night about a guy telling us how he only pushes products that he believes in 100%. Then he says he doesn't own the clothing companies rain suit because they cost too much for him to buy (even though he's on their "pro staff").

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Lots of crazies out there!

[@bassnbucks3238]

Awesome video man I just subscribed!!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks JC

[@jigsawalwayswins8636]

Completely agree, I had this reel and got one crank in xD Left a poor review, however I will at least say they gave me my money back and let me keep the reel, so hey money back plus a paperweight ain't too terrible xD Only $40 baitcaster I'll use is a Abu Garcia black max. Did just upgrade to the new Daiwa Lexa Wn 300H and that reel is a piece of work. Great video, dont fall for the schemes. You have a new subscriber, I respect that

[@DoubleD501]

Thanks for the honesty!! Especially in today’s society where everybody’s out to make a quick buck👊🏻

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Dale!

[@dennisnicholson952]

The drag on that reel sounds horrible! Thanks for the warning. As far as I'm concerned, I'd rather have a lower end Shimano spinning reel like the Nexave FE that I'm planning to buy, than any Godsmack or whatever brand for $29.99. You know that these companies are headquartered in China and ,I would say, are probably using the sort of business tactics that are commonplace in their homeland. So, I wouldn't be too surprised or taken aback at their approach. I have seen this Godline on Amazon and some of the reels at lower prices and I am not at all impressed. Okay, enough rattling on; thank you for an in-depth and informative video. To end, I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thank you Dennis and Merry Christmas to you as well!

[@InfantryOutdoors]

Just Subscribed to you bro. I like and agree with this video. You gotta stand by the products we use and refer. Especially as creators. Got a couple crap reels this year from one company as well. Well just wanted to say hello and great job!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Infantry Outdoors! I appreciate it

[@Fishin203]

Shoulda just told em to pound sand. There’s too many people trying to take advantage of us for their garbage products. Been there before. Appreciate the honesty

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks!

[@toddhilenbrant7700]

Great video, all your videos are awesome. Stand up man, for not promoting junk!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Todd!

[@fann510]

Great review Travis. Tell it like it is. Nice to have some honesty.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Richard! I try!

[@davethompson3350]

best product review ever!! :) fell out of my chair laughing when you got to the water, seriously though, I don't think they will send you the spinning reel now :)

[@SmallmouthCrush]

I know right, I was hoping I could break one of those on a giant smallmouth !

[@stellerate]

I love it when he said "this reel is awesome!"😂😂😂

[@josephknudsen7130]

No they should send the spinning reel, just for the comedy. Who knows they might send him one where he has to reel the reel towards him/backwards to retrieve line and market it as "revolutionary"!

[@anthonyjimerson9261]

I bought a Sakana for my first baitcaster. Reasoning is I’m VERY new to the fishing world. Having gotten a few better ones since then, I now know that you 99% of the time get what you pay for with this stuff. I use my other reels and have no issues (aside from backlashes due to my own mistakes). I use the Sakana from time to time and have nothing but issues with it.

[@tommelin7634]

FINALLY, I found someone who will give an HONEST REVIEW of equipment and not just say what the dealers/manufacturers tell them to say or pay them to say. WARNING, this is going to be a long one but if you're new to baitcasting, you will get some valuable advise, well, it's "valuable" in my opinion. I use KZbin to review almost everything I buy, at least the things I really want to know I'm getting the best for my money. The problem is that A LOT of the people here get free crap sent to them by the manufacturers or paid outright. Now, common sense tells me that I should take everything they say with a grain of salt. I mean, think about it, I know if I was CEO of one of these manufacturers I wouldn't send free reels to someone who's going to give it a bad review and these guys know that, so I tend to be skeptical. I also don't trust reviews posted on manufacturers sites, they control what they keep and what they delete, they may keep all reviews no matter how negative but I just don't trust 'em. I go to KZbin and FORUMS. Forums are where you stand the best chance to get opinions from guys who actually bought their equipment and use it because they like it or don't use it because they found it was junk. Not that there can't be liars or manufacturers reps there too but they're usually "weeded out" by the real forum users fairly quickly. I've bought new starter reels, Abu Garcia Black Max and it's a really nice starter, it won't stop backlashes which is the biggest problem for people new to baitcasters and they can REALLY ruin your day. You need to practice, in your yard and in the water but when it comes to fishing equipment, the old saying is true, you get what you pay for. It's just sad that top of the line baitcasters are well over $200 and can be over $400. That said, a 10yr old reel that was top of the line 10yrs ago sells on ebay for much less and still a great reel. Now, they are making "affordable" reels that have top of the line features without top of the line prices. For instance, the Shimano SLX DC has GREAT reviews and guys in the forums love 'em, most agree that, while not impossible, they are hard to get a backlash. The same is said about the Diawa Tatula SV TW and these are just a couple, there are a few others, it's just these are the best I can afford right now. These are both in the $150 to $190 range, a lot more than I'd like to spend but if I can stop backlashes or at least reduce it to one per trip, it's well worth it. I know this is lengthy but I wanted to share my experiences and "wisdom" in a place where "honesty" is appreciated and like I said, I'm just an average fisherman who probably catches fewer than average fish but I love not catching fish almost as much as I love catching fish. I just know that baitcasters are difficult to master especially if you start out with the wrong equipment, evidently the reel in this video is, what I like to refer to as, PRETTY GARBAGE. I trust your review and WILL NOT be buying one. Baitcasters are great reels and can be a lot of fun, they can put plastic baits that weigh next to nothing out a long way if you've learned to adjust them and cast them. If you don't know these two things or you've bought the wrong reel, you'll HATE them. Thank you for posting this TRUTH, for your honest and for caring more about what your word is worth than the equipment you can get sent to you. The best thing I can tell anyone new to baitcasters is, research the reels, there are great starter reels, affordable reels but you have to research what's best for you and what you can afford. Give used reals serious consideration, they've made a lot of improvements but a great reel 10yrs ago, if it was taken care of, is at least a damn good reel today. Most importantly though, no matter what reel you choose you're going to have to PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. One last thing, when you're first starting, pull out 50yrds or so of line and put tape over the rest of the line so if you do get a serious backlash that you can't get loose, at least you won't have to cut off an entire spool of expensive line. If you've read all this, you're probably the only one but I really hope you've gotten some help. I chose to post this here because it seems "honesty" is valued here.

[@tphvictims5101]

Mine is arriving Thursday from Amazon. I have abu revo inshore some Diawa and penn. I’m expecting the worst. I think you are ON THE MONEY with your observations.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Let me know your thoughts when you get it!

[@jordanp5163]

Bro, love how you’re keeping it real and not selling out to promote crap products. Maybe the googan squad can follow suit as well

[@jordanspalding6446]

Jordan P you’re exactly right. Googan squad just purchased the rights to sell those Chinese knockoffs. Basically just a middle man

[@payevhizmoney]

What model rod was that you were using? Also how heavy of a football jig head?

[@SmallmouthCrush]

It was the 744 Champion. I was using a 1/2 ounce fotoball jig

[@tommelin7634]

I just posted a "full length novel" to try and help people new to baitcasting but I wanted to post this to say "THANK YOU VERY MUCH"!!!!!!!! Honesty is getting to be a rarity these days, everyone has an opinion these days and they want to share it which is great but if your opinion is purchased by the company it's not really "your" opinion then, is it?? I realize I'm "late to the party", since this was posted in 2018 but you're an honest guy and you refuse to promote junk and I TRULY appreciate that. I've thought about making videos just to show a regular guy, who gets at least a minor backlash once out of every 10 casts or so, who does't catch a lot of fish or the biggest fish but someone who just loves to fish. I've considered showing how equipment works when someone who ISN'T a pro bass fisherman is using it. I noticed you do the same thing I do, look at the reviews with some skepticism. Personally, I like to get my reviews on forums from guys using the equipment. It's really nice to see someone with some self respect, morals, whatever you call it, it's nice to see.Thanks again and PLEASE never sell out, your word is worth more than ANY fishing equipment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@darrenmiller6278]

Myself I use Johnny Morris signature series and Lews speed spools. Both are between 100.00 to 200.00 dollar reels. Recieved 2 models of Kast King reels at Christmas and they are little noisy but really impressed with casting distance and handle fish fine. Of course that's all casting reels. Spinning reels I always come back to a shimano. Good video and very nice of you not to name company. Maybe give them a chance to fix those issues.

[@Mikeymvb]

Hahaha dude I literally was cracking up watching this video!! Especially you fishing with the reel. Absolutely hilarious.

[@Mikeymvb]

U could barely keep a straight face talking about this reel🤣

[@Stratollac]

Thanks for shedding light on this issue. I’m sure there are other companies doing the same thing, but it’s ridiculous how open and in your face these people were. They didn’t ask you for an honest opinion: they asked you to produce a video that was positive about their products full of links and marketing bullshit. The fact that they expected you to do this within days of receiving the reel tells me that no one associated with this company knows anything about fishing. The most they can expect in the amount of time they gave you is initial impressions. And that’s obviously what they’re going for since spending any actual fishing time with the reel is likely to lead a person to realize that the product is just junk. I’m sure some of their reels survive and function nominally, but there’s obviously no thought given to design or quality control. Anyway, thanks for a glimpse inside the insanity that the internet has spawned regarding the promotion of cheap “brands” of gear created by marketers and sales people who know and care nothing about fishing.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Your comment is dead on!

[@Fishingwithdave2024]

I just started using the 13 fishing reels. I used one last year and wasn't the happiest with it. Gave them another shot with there higher end line and I'm pretty impressed. For spinning reels I use the creed gt and for casting I use the inception. Love love love these reels. Spinning reel is 89.99 and the casting is 119.99

[@sacalaitslayer327]

😂😂😂 I love this Travis I needed this after a long day of work great guy!!!!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Bradford! Glad you liked it!

[@jasonboose9486]

Thanks for the reply. You are better than 40 dollar junk. I use alot of bass pro shop extreme reels. They are pretty good reels for the money. Been using them since 2003. Keep up thegood videos Travis.

[@mikedove7541]

Thanks for posting. It is about time someone called out this type of Junk!! You have hit on a topic that needs to be talked about more. This is the problem with so called " experts " with so called youtube channels . They get behind whatever company makes them a quick buck. So sad because a lot of younger anglers buy into this idea of "Great Cheap" products and waste their money. It is starting to remind me of the old days marketing " As seen on TV". Keep up the good work Travis!! I will be behind you if you want to make a few more videos calling out the Junk or I would even go so far as saying Fraudulent products . Chief Dove

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Chief!

[@charlespoling3331]

Travis my thought on casting reels is that most reels around $100 and up are pretty good out of the box. The only thing that separate the good ones from the great ones is putting them through a few years of hard use. Sadly this form of testing does not work in today's market with everyone wanting the newest reels.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

$100 bucks is a good price point

[@biggiesmalljaws]

The only difference between $100 reels and $200+ is the amount of maintenance it takes to make em last 4 years. You just have to clean and oil and inspect the parts on a $100 reel more often and expect to replace some stuff on them over the course of those 4 years. I personally love Lew's because their customer service has been 100% transparent with me and extremely helpful at diagnosing problems and getting me the right parts fast. But, I made the decision of upgrading to high end reels because I value my time and like the fact that I only have to do a little maintenance vs a lot 😂 My advice (which isn't worth much) find a company you like and stick with them. Build a relationship, make some phone calls and don't be afraid to talk to them about their products. I had to call Lew's about a new 2018 BB1 Pro cause I thought it was broken out of the box due to the new spool clicker they added to the model. Long story short after using that reel for a couple months Lew's got another call from me about just how awesome the reel is and how happy I am with the product!!!!

[@charlespoling3331]

@@biggiesmalljaws yeah I have 8 casting reels now all lews and for the most part they are pretty good. I'm going on year 3 with 5 of my laser pros and oiling them is not helping much anymore. I'm trying figure out if upgrading the bearings is worth it or just replace the reels.

[@dv6000hp]

Glad you read the emails! Great video! Craptacular reel! Keep the vids coming bud!

[@bassintime6879]

Good info! I was really surprised at the way Guntersville treated you but the good bite has been on and off here for the last month. You should have made a trip to the coosa river to catch some spots!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

I hear yeah! Would love to fish the Coosa River sometime!

[@russb296]

Love it! Refreshing to hear honesty! I do know of some fishermen that like the Godline braid though.... They said the only major downfall to it is that it is not as small diameter as the higher end braids on the market

[@russb296]

I pick up older style Chronarch and Green Curados for under $50 used all the time that are mechanically close to new. Matter of fact that's exactly what I would suggest these young fisherman that don't have a lot of money do if they want to get into a baitcasting setup. Rather than waste their time purchasing a piece of junk reel that will do nothing but deter them from wanting to learn how to use it.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Very good idea....those old green curados are great!

[@SoSaysYou]

I've used their Godline braid, grey color. It's decent braid. It's a little softer than normal braid, and not quite as sensitive as a better known brand. However, I have not lost a fish on it and did not have any backlash. I have caught 3-5lbers with it and have not broke off. I just replaced it after a year because I felt I needed more sensitivity. I'll never buy their reels though. Love the channel.

[@l.i.archer5379]

I discovered AngryFish AGW9 braided line that is a 9-strand line that is round, smooth, and thinner than other braids. Strong, too.

[@DwayneMcguire]

lolhaha good video Travis,,,,i got great reels under $200 with Diawa ct bait caster$160 and Diawa fuego $100 spinning ,,,big key thing you said is the time using the reels

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Another solid company!

[@DwayneMcguire]

@@SmallmouthCrush the right one will hook up with you in time I'm sure 👍🎣

[@zackhill776]

I have a blackmax Abu garcia that I got for $89.99 and I myself caught several of bass can't even fill it when I am casting or reeling it's strong

[@robbyanderson224]

I dig the video. Mostly because I am a budget fisherman. The KastKing Assassin and the Piscifun Torrent are great reels for those looking for reels under $100. I would love higher priced gear but as it's not my profession I can't justify it. Keep up the great videos. Liked and subbed.

[@timothythompson2678]

Under load it sounds kinda like a duck call! Any idea why Shimano has been building spinning reels without the option of turning off the anti reverse?

[@SmallmouthCrush]

LOL, I wish shimano reels still had the anti reverse......I miss mine. I assume it is to reduce cost.

[@gmoneymerkz441]

Pretty sure its to keep them more water tight

[@timothythompson2678]

@@gmoneymerkz441 it hasn't really helped in my experience. Every time my Sedona has been dunked it temporarily seizes up.

[@johnnylsx3384]

So I'm a big spinning reel guy too but I'm venturing in to the world of baitcasters. Im seeing a lot of el cheapo, but looks good products. Reviews like yours are helping out guys like me. Being that Im new to this style reel Im thinking of going with a top of the line KastKing, 13Fishing or Enigma. Im sure any are better that that pencil sharpener they sent you!

[@fishingmojados1121]

The audio didn't kick in until 14:08 or was it just me?

[@garyricky8744]

Have 6 Garcia 5500 still use the first one from back in 1976 when they first came on the market ,have caught thousands of different fish on them up to a 50 lb muskie . Just clean and oil them and replace the paw and worm gear when needed . Now they sell for around $80

[@datN.O.Colombiano]

I bought a Pflueger Monarch from Wal-Mart for 40 bucks and that thing is money every time. Never backlashes. Always casts great and I fish at least 3 days a week. Been using her for about 5 months now without issue.😊

[@ChrisFondren55]

Just curious. Has there been any more correspondence with this company since the video has been posted? They were soooooo eager for you to do a video. And now you have

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Nothing....but they did comment in the comment section. It's a few post up

[@daveversion2.2]

I have not been bait casting for very many years…..but the reel that always performs and casts the smoothest with no birds nest is my Abu Silver Max.😊

[@tacticaltugg6379]

the daiwa fuego ct is a really smooth and sturdy reel and in the uk costs £75 roughly

[@JLeeChron]

😂 Manson, this is your best video so far. I about crashed my truck when you got into that pig. I hope they keep sending you stuff. 15:25 bwah ha ha

[@SmallmouthCrush]

LOL thanks!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Keep it on the road!

[@matthewcarvill5936]

definitely would be a cool series to do for over the winter discussing the fishing industry and where it stands and some of the dirty laundry with companies maybe call it "Industry Talk" or "F.I.T" (Fishing Industry Talk)!! Also would like seeing the video you mentioned about over the winter upgrading and buying all new reels for next year, how and why you're selecting which brand, breaking down your selected ratios. basically your entire process of what you're doing and why

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Awesome comment, will be making those!

[@JoelMannerino1]

Shimano, 13, abu, kastking, h20 express, shakespeare, penn, ....for over decades, had no problem .. read on a few problems but the few who bought defective reels, my 1st curado dc didnt work at all the way my buddies did ...simply defective...exchanged it...and been abusing it ever since ..im also beating up my concept z too and still no issues what so ever. Some reels of charactersitics (especially the cheaper obes though not always the case) its hard to say the whole line up is bad. I always do an autopsy to see what went wrong and always try to revive my reels just for my own sake

[@SmallmouthCrush]

I would love to look into the reel but I am mechanically inclined to know what's up......I would never be able to put it back together right either.

[@JoelMannerino1]

@@SmallmouthCrush totally understand man. If you were to ever do so, record it. Thats the only way i was able to put my citica back together. The diawa twichin bar reel was tough one. U dont recommend it. Thumbs up like, subbed! Honesty is key now a days... tired of crappy companies trying to profit off of junk

[@terrywolford7880]

LOL. I think you showed a lot of patience but it is what it is. You did your part above and beyond. It was quite entertaining watching you pull in those fish on that noisy reel! It does prove a great fisherman can even land a fish with the crappiest reel on earth! As they say in the south "Bless your heart".

[@nathankostbade1593]

thanks it is good that someone is being honest

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thanks Nathan!

[@randywilliams1564]

You sir .. are awesome lol. This is fantastic. I actually bought one of those (or one from a similar company) a while back and it lasted about an hour lol. Good job dude!

[@randywilliams1564]

I was at the Costa series weigh-in too, I live in Gville.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

WOW....I am getting some feedback from others that have tried these low quality reels and have had some bad experiences! It sucks paying $200 bucks for a reel but I guess if you want quality you almost have to now days.

[@randywilliams1564]

You get what you pay for. And face it, rods and reels take a beating. Buying cheap equipment isn't worth it.

[@kodymackie6808]

This company got what they wanted, reel in the thumbnail, 10 min plus video, using it on the water, and a run down of the reel, they’ll be emailing a thank you shortly! Fucking hilarious!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

I know right! I am just waiting for that email to come! Perhaps they could send me the spinning reel to try :)

[@TheNutty0101]

Love the video and glad you did the right thing by pointing it out.

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Thank you!

[@nategaccione509]

Like the review. If people are getting into baitcasters and are looking for a starter “cheap reel” then go for a lower end model with a reputable company. I will say however after buying 1000yds of godlike I’m impressed with at least that product.

[@BayJoua]

My first bait cast reel was the abu Garcia silvermax. Best starter reel before I start getting into shimano. Worst baitcast reel I had was the quantum Escalade.

[@case8987]

Jesus Christ I lolllld so hard when I heard that reel screaming when you hooked that fish. My god 😂😂

[@livinglife3230]

Funny video! How did the Costa Championship go?

[@SmallmouthCrush]

It was a tough one!

[@ChadLeton]

Come on KURT help this guy out already :) The duel purpose reel that functions for fishing AND can call in ducks at the same time! "Awesome baitcaster for the money...he's going to buy more" LOL. More industry specific videos will be perfect during the off season. Keep taking us along for the HONEST ride of a competitive tournament fisherman and guide!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Will do Chad! Thanks for the comments!

[@jhenningfish9831]

BPS original Pro-Qualifiers. $100; as low as $49.99 during spring sale. As good as any $140-175. Offered in 6 ratios left and right. Magnet and friction brake. 10bearings(?) Were great for entry level. Casting distance is about 75% of a good Lews. Have moved up to Lews and Shimano. Ardent makes a decent spinning reel.

[@kushcrumbleshatter]

I agree, i still have a Pro Qualifier from about 5 years ago an it is still goin strong, i have most of Lews top tier reels i love them too.

[@paullandenberger3437]

Can’t help but laugh so hard every time you reel in a fish with that sound 😂😂

[@ФедорЗагинайко]

*This reel is perfect for me **enjoyable.fishing** recommend the price, the look, the drag. Just a little bit noisy if tension knob is not right on the click. If well ajusted...no backlash ! Love it !!*

[@tinamortensen1220]

The reel he shows is garbage! You must be with company!!

[@kerryparks6744]

I bought one and it sounded the same. I told them something was wrong with it, so she sent me a new one. The new one sounded better, but locked up on the third cast. Both reels went in the trash!

[@SmallmouthCrush]

Yes that is unfortunate....Buyer beware I guess!