Best $300ish baitcaster for skipping jigs around docks

[Bigguy]

I am looking for a new baitcaster to skip docks with 1/4 to 3/8 jigs. I will be pairing it with a 6'8" my expride. I want it to be on the smaller side for ergonomic reasons (I have a tat type r! that is not comfortable). My first two choices are the sv105 and chronarch ci4. Which of these two would you go wih and why? If the answer is neither then what would you go with?

Btw I use 15 - 17 flouro.

[Fishinfanatic115]

If you're not making long casts, you can probably get away with a 50 size, if you're looking to maximize ergonomics. A Core wouldn't be a bad option, since they're discontinued and will be on discount if you can find one. If you're willing to go JDM, you can probably get a Metanium HG or XG, or even a '15 Aldebaran HG for under $300. Shipping and duties might push the number, but they're both top-tier reels. I can speak for Met HG, and I loved it for skipping jigs under docks.

[silversix]

Grab an Alphas SV and save $100

[Demoman]

JDM twing zillion 9:1 has constantly been blowing my mind for skipping jigs.

[Cracker]

I would go with Daiwa, just because of the magnetic brakes, it is easy to skip.
Never could figured out how to skip with centrifugal brake system.

[5bites]

Cracker is on point imo. Mag brakes (esp Daiwa) is the way to go. Personally I use t3 1016's. Love them and think they're very underrated but everyone knows how fantastic the 1016 spool is. Ive yet to try an sv reel but I'd really like to give the alphas a shot.

That said I did recently buy a 13 Fishing concept a. It skips very well. Very compact reel. I prefer magnets over centrifugal but this reel does work for me.


Looking used would be a good idea. A good used steez could be the way to go.

[poisonokie]

Cracker is on point imo. Mag brakes (esp Daiwa) is the way to go. Personally I use t3 1016's. Love them and think they're very underrated but everyone knows how fantastic the 1016 spool is. Ive yet to try an sv reel but I'd really like to give the alphas a shot.

That said I did recently buy a 13 Fishing concept a. It skips very well. Very compact reel. I prefer magnets over centrifugal but this reel does work for me.


Looking used would be a good idea. A good used steez could be the way to go.

OR a spankin new SS SV! It would be hard to beat a T3, especially with an SV spool.

[Nitroman77]

Been using my SS SV SHL for the last couple week skipping 1/2oz jigs and it does a fine job..
Its also got 25lb Abrazx loaded up on it..

[Teal101]

Grab an Alphas SV and save $100

Cant be beat at $200 for the ultimate skipping reel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6NxIFMtRT4

[Rippin-lips]

JDM twing zillion 9:1 has constantly been blowing my mind for skipping jigs.

He said his Tatula isn't comfortable to him. He wouldn't like the Tws Zillion since it's built on the same frame.

[silversix]

Grab an Alphas SV and save $100

Cant be beat at $200 for the ultimate skipping reel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6NxIFMtRT4

yeah, hell its even cheaper. $185 at degitaka and free shipping. Unbeatable.

[IAY]

I would go for the Chronarch Ci4+, since I really enjoy the bearing supported pinion gear, when I want to lock the drag down to really pull the fish out of cover.

[stingray23]

How are you guys avoiding backlash? I'm always hesitant to skip with a baitcaster because of it.

[IAY]

How are you guys avoiding backlash? I'm always hesitant to skip with a baitcaster because of it.

Learning from tons and tons of backlashes, to get somewhat educated thumb and wrist stroke

[Teal101]

How are you guys avoiding backlash? I'm always hesitant to skip with a baitcaster because of it.

An SV spool and constant thumbing. For Daiwa I set brakes on 7, cast control just past tight enough to stop side to side spool movement, cast with a low angle so the bait doesnt dig into the water, and keep the thumb on the spool every so lightly to keep an even speed. In other words, practice. The SV spool makes it super easy, but skipping with an R+, ZPI, etc spool is no issue.