Gear Guide: Casting Reels Under $400

by

By Perry Mack

Abu Garcia Revo Premier Low Profile

Welcome to the fourth generation, and top of line of the Revo series of reels. All the key performance features of the Revo STX are here, with enhancements to produce a lighter weight, more durable, slightly better performing reel. These advancements include the ten stainless HPCR bearings, carbon side plates and carbon handle.

Two models are available weighing 6.17 oz , with 10+1 bearings, holding 175/10 to 100/15 mono or 190/20 to 100/50 braid, and max drag 24 lbs. Choose from right or left hand retrieve with gear ratio of 6.75:1 and 27 IPT or right hand only with 7.3:1, and a retrieval rate of 30 IPT.

MSRP: $300 - abugarcia.com

Team Lew’s®HyperMag Speed Spool® SLP Series

As the name suggests, the Hypermag is built on Lew’s Super Low Profile Platform and is the lightest in their baitcast line. Strength, rigidity and low weight are achieved through the use of a one piece magnesium frame and C45 carbon sideplates. Smooth line control courtesy the anti-reverse clutch, double-shielded stainless bearing, aluminum drag star and 32 mm aircraft-grade drilled and chamfered Duralumin U-shaped spool.

Two models available in right or left hand retrieve weighing a mere 5.4 oz, with 10+1 bearings, #/# mono – 110/12 braid, and max drag # lbs, your choice of either gear ratio of 7.5:1 or 8.3:1, retrieval rates of 30 or 33 IPT respectively.

MSRP: $300 USD - lews.com

Okuma Tesoro Star Drag Reel

New for 2018, the flagship drag reel for Okuma is designed for big fish angling. Constructed from forged machine cut aluminum frame, sideplates and spool, makes it extremely durable and lightweight. A large dropdown gearbox puts large cranking power in your hands to generate a ton of torque. Other quality components include an anodized swept aluminum handle, 4 + 1 corrosion resistant bearings, dual anti-reverse (mechanical and roller bearing) and a self-lubricating gear system.

Two right-hand retrieve models are available in weighing 19 - 19.2 oz, with 4+1 bearings, 320/25 up to 185/40 mono or 495/50 up to 475/65 braid, max drag 22 lbs, and gear ratio of 6.2:1, for a retrieval rate of 46 IPT.

MSRP: $320 USD - Okumafishing.com

The Sport Fishing Gear Guide is available on newsstands from coast to coast, including Walmart, Chapters and Shopper's Drug Mart, or get a digital copy by clicking right here.

Connect with The Sportfishing Guide on social media: twitter; instagram; facebook