TackleTour

Does it exist? For the longest time I have been using my penn 209, it works well but it is heavy. What are my options for a decent low profile baitcaster under $100? I have no issues with buying used, I just don't really know much about reel brands and models for baitcasters. I always rinse and clean after a session in the pier/jetty.

raindance wrote:Does it exist? For the longest time I have been using my penn 209, it works well but it is heavy. What are my options for a decent low profile baitcaster under $100? I have no issues with buying used, I just don't really know much about reel brands and models for baitcasters. I always rinse and clean after a session in the pier/jetty.

Major brands like Shimano don't recommend rinsing reels after use in saltwater.

Rinsing actually pushes salt deeper into the reel and only causes more problems where you don't want them.

As for finding a good quality saltwater baitcast reel for under $100 good luck. In order to make a quality saltwater reel it requires the use of parts made from materials not affected by salt. Those materials are more expensive so a quality saltwater reel would tend to go well above the $100 mark.

You may be able to locate a decent reel made for saltwater in the used market at that price or below.

The current Citica is a great reel for saltwater use and can be found pretty cheap. A little heavy, but built strong and cast lures over 3/8oz well. A Tatula CT would also be a nice reel to use for those same lures but also cast lighter baits pretty nicely. A buddy uses the CT for 3/8oz and below, and Curado K for anything heavier and this works well for him. Proper lubricants really go a long ways with maintaining these reels in the salt.

JBcrankaddict wrote: Proper lubricants really go a long ways with maintaining these reels in the salt.

That is exactly right! Proper lubricants is the key properly applied. Corrosion protection ahead of use goes a long way!

ShimanoFan wrote:

JBcrankaddict wrote: Proper lubricants really go a long ways with maintaining these reels in the salt.

That is exactly right! Proper lubricants is the key properly applied. Corrosion protection ahead of use goes a long way!

Very much so, and so many companies have been doing a terrible job of it lately. Open it up when you first get it and do it right, or send it off to have it done. Worth it! Sorry to the OP, not trying to go off track on your post, just some advice that applies to whatever reel you end up purchasing.

Thanks for the advice, I will look into the citica. I have a buddy who does reel repairs, he usually takes a look at the reels I get, and puts the necessary stuff for it. BUT he is leaving soon and I need to learn to do it on my own. Time to research that.

Quick update, got a shimano scorpion 1500 and a abu Garcia 4600 c4 locally for $90 for both. Pretty good deal. I'm going to try them out but I think the Abu is better for this? The shimano feels really good in the hands tho.

Curado E300 or J would be my choice, used of course and plenty on ebay.

My favorite inshore reel is a tatula type r, the original model not the ct and I barely spent over $100. Fuego ct can be had for cheap as well on eBay. I use an Abu 6000c3 for live bait drifts so your 4600c4 will work well from a pier.

I've been using a Shimano casitas lately. Holds 150yds of 20lb find wind tamer. Can be found well under 100 right now. There's a local tackle shop with one in the clearance case for 70.

The Blue Tatula Coastal can be found on eBay for just over $100. I think it’s built on the original Tatula frame, with CRBB bearings and a deep spool. It’s a nice reel, expect for those huge foam knobs.

My father-in-law has been using the Revo Orra 2 for a few seasons and with proper maintenance they've held up very well.

daiwa lexa's usually found fs slightly used at $100. If not maybe a shimano slx $99.99 new and its saltwater rated.

maybe a tatula but im not sure about saltwater use.

I am running a super tuned Curado e51 for reds and snook down here in Fl. It has turned out to be a great inshore salt water reel for me.