Inexpensive Cranking Reel

[BB144]

I had originally wanted to put a Zillion 4.9:1 CC on my 765CB Glass, but won't be able to afford one...

My second choice was a Revo Winch, yet I don't want to spend that much without getting the reel I really wanted... So it looks like my budget is going to win this round as I'm in search of opinions on inexpensive CB reels.

The main two I'm considering are BPS Pro Qualifier and the Daiwa Exceler. I am a fan of Daiwa reels, but feel their lower end reels need some work. I've heard a lot of great things about the PQs and just wanted some more input. I know both both of the inexpensive reels should be able to throw the 3/8-3/4oz cranks I'll be using it for just fine, but how to they compare in other areas like smoothness, durability, etc.

Thanks!

[robertrinaustin]

The BPS PQ is a nice reel and is currently on sale and they've got the reel trade in to bring it down another $15. Another option that is a little more $ is the KVD PT. It's currently on sale for $139 and you get the trade in discount on top of that. It's lighter than the PQ and so far I've been very happy with mine after 6 months of fishing. I picked up another on the Spring Sale. I don't have any long term experience with the PT, but so far so good. The PQ has been a work horse for me. I've got one that is probably 10 years old now and it's still working great. My only complaint is I wish it was lighter. It's a long day throwing DD22s with that reel on an 8' rod.

[Tokugawa]

Vote #2 for the BPS PQ.

Or just save a while for the CC. You'll thank yourself later.

[Heavy Action]

Save your money for the crazy cranker. If not you will end up owning the PQ and maybe another reel or two and still wish you had the CC. Never settle on tackle "needs". I promise you it's more expensive in the end if you short cut yourself from what you truly want.

[johnD]

All depends on what you call inexpensive.
You can pick up a curado 200E5 on flebay for $145 tyd..American bass outlet has them for that price also.

[BB144]

Thanks for the replies!

robertrinaustin, Thanks for the info on the PQ! I'm not a big quantum fan and won't waste my money until they prove they can build a reel that'll last though!

Tokugawa and Heavy Action, I know I should save up for the one I really want (and I usually do!), But we've got a trip planned to AL this spring and there's just so much I need: 3-4 spools of line, the crankbait reel, half a dozen rod covers (as I'll be fishing out of someone else's boat and carrying my gear back to my room each night), not to mention lures and terminal tackle and a spinning rod for my new Certate 2000 (which I wasn't really even planning on buying this early, I just couldn't help it, lol). I'll be working this summer and then I can save for the CC I really want.

Thanks for the recommendation on the PQ too!

JohnD, I'm not a big fan of the Curados, I find them very uncomfortable to palm. For around that price, I would've went with the Revo Winch, but I still don't quite have the money to spend almost $150 right now. Thanks for the recommendation though!

[Pmedicbm]

Youu should be able to get a PQ for around $75 if you take a trade in with you.. Otherwise, I'd look at the Citica E in that price range.. Just a few dollars more, but you'll get a really good reel that should last you a long time...

[damian_megabass]

Daiwa Exceler Crankbait Casting Reel. $80

[robchik04]

What about a Shimano Citica E?

[breezy]

If you want to stay in that price range I don't think you can beat the Pro Qualifier. I have several BPS reels and haven't had any issues out of any yet (going on 2 years). I've heard some people voice concerns about parts availability for the BPS reels, but since the PQ shares so many parts with the Revo reels I doubt it would be an issue.

[slipperybob]

I have my cheapo Shakespeare reel...just for cheapo fishing.

[tracker01]

Vote #3 for the BPS PQ.

[aznevolution8]

How well do the Citica E's perform? I'm debating on getting one for jerkbait and topwater and cranking. Can I just use a 7.0:1 speed reel for these applications and just reel a little bit slower for the cranking???

[BB144]

If you want to stay in that price range I don't think you can beat the Pro Qualifier. I have several BPS reels and haven't had any issues out of any yet (going on 2 years). I've heard some people voice concerns about parts availability for the BPS reels, but since the PQ shares so many parts with the Revo reels I doubt it would be an issue.

Vote #3 for the BPS PQ.

Thanks for the input! Breezy, I'm not too concerned over parts availability, but I do believe you are correct that many of the parts are interchangeable between the BPS, AG, and Pflueger reels.

What about a Shimano Citica E?

Youu should be able to get a PQ for around $75 if you take a trade in with you.. Otherwise, I'd look at the Citica E in that price range.. Just a few dollars more, but you'll get a really good reel that should last you a long time...

Like I mentioned earlier in the thread, I would have looked at the Curado, except I find them horribly uncomfortable (I know I'm in the minority on this one), and that goes for the Citica as well. I just can't explain it, but I can't find a comfortable position for my hand when palming. Also, the Citica is a 6:1 reel and I was looking for a high powered reel for med-deep cranking; something with a lower gear ration and a little more torque.

How well do the Citica E's perform? I'm debating on getting one for jerkbait and topwater and cranking. Can I just use a 7.0:1 speed reel for these applications and just reel a little bit slower for the cranking???

I do have to say the Citica is a nice performing reel for the price (I do have one). But I definitely wouldn't fish deep cranks with it, and especially not a 7:1 reel. Big, deep divers like DD22s or LJ DDs will wear you out on a higher speed reel. The Citica should be fine for cranking shallow cranks like square bills and such though.

[njbasscat]

I would consider a used reel. If it's a crazy cranker or winch you want, look at the for sale section here as well as ebay. Some great deals can be had.