UL 500 sized spinning reels

[hungry_cow]

What are my options for an UL spinning reel in the size range of a Shimano 500? I know they have the Symetre in that size but are their other better options from them JDM or other companies in that size for a nicer reel? Thanks!

[Ranger 619VS]

hungry_cow,

No JDM manufacturer makes a high end 500 size reel that I know of. I am a die hard UL fisherman who uses only top end rods and reels. I favor the 1003 and 1025 size from Daiwa on all my rods event the 5'0 stream models. The slightly wider spool diameter adds in casting distance and line lay. The drags are perfect for protecting light line as well. I find they have better gearing and stay smoother longer then the Symetre price point reels. The Luvias 1003 is the cheapest, then the presso 1025, then the certate 1003 and ending at the flagship model the Exist 1025. Again these are enthusiast level reels and not for everyone. I am sick and know it.....I have a few or each series so any questions don't hesitate to PM me. If the 500 size is your absolute largest then I think the Symetre is the way to go as far as I can tell.


Ranger 619VS/Brian

[mhood]

I've been w8ing on a Stella 500 for over a decade now...

[BigG]

hungry_cow,

No JDM manufacturer makes a high end 500 size reel that I know of. I am a die hard UL fisherman who uses only top end rods and reels. I favor the 1003 and 1025 size from Daiwa on all my rods event the 5'0 stream models. The slightly wider spool diameter adds in casting distance and line lay. The drags are perfect for protecting light line as well. I find they have better gearing and stay smoother longer then the Symetre price point reels. The Luvias 1003 is the cheapest, then the presso 1025, then the certate 1003 and ending at the flagship model the Exist 1025. Again these are enthusiast level reels and not for everyone. I am sick and know it.....I have a few or each series so any questions don't hesitate to PM me. If the 500 size is your absolute largest then I think the Symetre is the way to go as far as I can tell.


Ranger 619VS/Brian

I've been looking at the 1025 Presso for a while, this helps. Guess I had better pull the trigger before they're gone.

[fishonsc]

I have the 1025 presso and the 13 Certate 1003. I prefer the 13 Certate over the presso. It just feels smoother and I prefer the alloy body.

[Redlinerobert]

I've been w8ing on a Stella 500 for over a decade now...

Me too!

[Ranger 619VS]

I have at least one of each of the 1003 and 1025 size Daiwa JDM reels. I loved the 2012 Luvias 1003 model. I just took delivery of a 2015 Luvias 1003 and so far it is a great reel. I have it on a G. Loomis TSR801-2 blended rod I caught over 30 yellow perch on it yesterday. I think it runs a close second to my 2012 Exist 1003 / G. Loomis TSR801-2 GLX combo. I have the Certate 1003 on a SR781 IMX and while it is a great reel, I still like the Exist and Luvias more. I guess to each his own.........




Ranger 619VS/Brian

[hungry_cow]

Is the Daiwa 1003 size in between the Shimano 500 and 1000? The 1000 seemed just a little bigger than I would like for and UL reel.

Is there that big of a difference between the Luvias and the Certate? I am looking for something at least the quality of a Stradic but don't need the best there is as I just panfish when I want a change of pace from bass fishing. Thanks!

[Ranger 619VS]

No the 1003 and 1025 reels are 1000 size. They are shallow spool models so they use less line on the spool. I used 500 size reels for UL years ago but the 1003 and 1025 size have replaced them all. The Luvias is probably close in quality to a Stadic. I find them better in my opinion. But again I am a HUGE fan. Like everything else though buy what you like and can afford. I gave up dedicated bass fishing years ago for lure fishing with ultra light gear. I enjoy it and take it pretty seriously.


Ranger 619VS/Brian

[bradbellflower]

The older and current Luvias models do have bushings that can be replaced with bearings to bring the bearing count up to the level of the Exist line. There will still be other differences but if price is a factor, they are great reels. Once you go to longer rods than the normal 4.5-5.5 foot UL rods, the larger 1000 series reels do seem to match better, balance wise, if that's important to you.

[Jayce]

Look into the new shimano nasci 500.

[earthworm77]

The Nasci 500 is your best bet....a great little reel.

[reason162]

Look into the new shimano nasci 500.

bumping this old thread for a question: the symetre 500 FL is the only symetre w/o X-ship. Is this also the case with the Nasci? Where would you place the Nasci in Shimano's USDM line...is it equivalent to the Stradic FJ? Definitely looking to upgrade my symetre 500, though tbh there is absolutely nothing wrong with this little reel. Swapped to carbontex drag and it's landed over a dozen bluefish to #15 w/o a hiccup!

[Pen3]

The Nasci is price around $70 so i assume it is in there Symetre line. Same 4/1 Bearing count, but with Shimano's latest tech.

[reason162]

The Nasci is price around $70 so i assume it is in there Symetre line. Same 4/1 Bearing count, but with Shimano's latest tech.

Thanks for the response! They look as if they have identical specs...but maybe I'm missing something. If the 500 sized Nasci has X-Ship (which the 500 Symetre does not), that would be a worthy upgrade indeed. But as you said, same price point probably means just a silver version of the Symetre!