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| I know this topic gets beat to death, and I know there are lots of threads discussing it. I also know I get confused and overwhelmed whenever I try to do a search to research it. I know that some of the better options are offered in a left hand retrieve, but many are not, and I'm not sure which are or aren't.
The question is: What LEFT HANDED reel would you recommend for a dedicated double 10 set-up?
I am including a preliminary list, but I am also enabling the option to let users add options (without recording the username). I am also enabling the option to vote for more than one choice, so if you feel that there are several equally good options, feel free to vote for more than one.
If you decide to reply to the thread, rather than simply vote, please try to include any specs available for the reel you recommend (gear ratio, ipt, weight, level-wind, power-handle, etc.), and a brief explanation of WHY you feel it is the best reel for the job.
My hope is that this thread will not only help me make a decision, but also serve as a resource for all of us lefty's who can't just bite the bullet and buy a Tranx (which is clearly the leader among right handed reels).
Thanks in advance for your input. | |
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Posts: 667
Location: Wisconsin | For EASE, the winch works really nice, just can't get the speed you may want with ease, or at all for that matter. I used my 5.4 NaCL and that worked well, had no issues, but I did not throw them for long periods of time, so I can't comment how I might feel about an all day stint with the 5.4. As for the 401D, well just got that baby this Winter so have not used it yet. | |
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| For Comparison Purposes:
Tranx HG (right hand only):
Gear Ratio 6.6:1
IPT 43
Reel Weight 20 oz.
Cost 499.99
Level-Wind Yes: Disengaging?
Drag 25 lbs.
Brakes ??
Description: The King for speed - not available in LH.
Tranx PG (right hand only):
Gear Ratio 4.6:1
IPT 30
Reel Weight 20 oz.
Cost 499.99
Level-Wind Yes: Disengaging?
Drag 25 lbs.
Brakes ??
Description : The King for power - not available in LH.
Revo Toro Winch (61):
Gear Ratio 4.6:1
IPT 22
Reel Weight 10.8
Cost $279.99
Level-Wind Yes: Non-Disengaging
Drag 22 lbs.
Brakes yes
Description : Slow and easy
Revo Toro 5.4:1 (61)
Gear Ratio 5.4:1
IPT 26
Reel Weight 11
Cost $299.95
Level-Wind Yes: Non-Disengaging
Drag 22 lbs.
Brakes Yes
Description General Purpose: Workhorse
Shimano 401d
Gear Ratio 5.1:1
IPT 27
Reel Weight 11.8
Cost $379.99
Level-Wind Yes - Disengaging?
Drag 15
Brakes ??
Description - General Purpose: Smooth
Shimano 401 te
Gear Ratio 5.0:1
IPT 25
Reel Weight 12.8
Cost N/A - no longer available new
Level-Wind Yes - Non-Disengaging?
Drag 16
Brakes ??
Description - General Purpose: Workhorse
Daiwa Lexa 400 HL
Gear Ratio 6.3:1
IPT 33
Reel Weight 15.3
Cost $245
Level-Wind Yes - Disengaging
Drag 25
Brakes Magnetic
Description - Poor man's Tranx?
Avet SX MC (single speed)
Gear Ratio 5.3:1
IPT 30
Reel Weight 14
Cost 199.99
Level-Wind - None
Drag 9 (strike) or 14 (max)
Brakes M.C.
Description: Burner
Avet SX MC 6/4 (dual speed)
Gear Ratio 6.3:1 high/3.8:1 low
IPT 36High/21Low
Reel Weight 16
Cost 269.99
Level-Wind None
Drag 9 (strike) to 14 (max)
Brakes M.C.
Description - Slow + Burn | |
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Posts: 58
| really curious as to who voted for these high speed reels. 301d, komodo, lexa
i havent used any of them, but am sure there are far better options | |
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Posts: 993
| I used to use a winch but then I used my NACL 5.4 with the new power handle and it was great so I sold my winch | |
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Posts: 426
Location: Perryville, MO | For muskie fishing, I own Toro 61's, a Toro 60HS, a Toro 61 Winch, Calcutta 401 TE's, a Curado 301DSV, a Curado 301e, 6501 C4's, 6501 C3's, a 5501, an Avet MXJ, plus a few line-counter trolling reels. I have very little knowledge and/or experience with the other reels. (The next reel I add will be a Calcutta 401D. I really don't need one, but like others I like more gear than I actually need) .
To answer the question as others have pointed out, it largely depends what you want to do with even a dedicated 10's set-up. If speed is the ticket - most of time where you fish - then I'd pick-up an Avet. But I'm still not the biggest fan in the world of that reel. It does an excellent job of speed, but it requires (for me anyway) a bit more concentration then other reels. (And despite what I've heard a few others say, it does often sound and feel a bit like a coffee grinder, though it has not failed or broken with some significant use.) It sounds like the Lexa might handle the speed thing really well and turn out to be an excellent option, but I'm not convinced it's had enough time on the scene yet to prove itself (but I won't be suprised if it does). If speed is of no concern than I opt for the Winch. Easy reeling. Somewhere in between and I'll use the TE because it manages that well. I probably use TE's most, then the Avet. If you want the best all around reel and a solid 10's reel then go with a TE (after that I'd suggest a Toro 61 as the next best all-around reel). | |
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | Boss - 2/27/2014 1:00 PM
really curious as to who voted for these high speed reels. 301d, komodo, lexa
i havent used any of them, but am sure there are far better options
What he said | |
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Location: Grand Rapids, MI | Propster - 2/27/2014 5:36 PM Boss - 2/27/2014 1:00 PM really curious as to who voted for these high speed reels. 301d, komodo, lexa i havent used any of them, but am sure there are far better options What he said I'm one that voted for a faster reel. Why? I can go slower with a faster reel (the ones on the list I wouldn't consider high speed) but when I need to go fast with a reel that is slow I can't, or I'll wear myself out trying. Sure a slow reel would make them easier but the topic is a dedicated rod/reel for tens and IMO that dedicated set up needs to be capable of speed. I've fished along side normal speed reels and outfished them simply because of the speed my reel was able to produce. That Lexa 400 H 6:1 is really the best of speed and power, super long handle to provide plenty of power and with 33 ipt is capable of good speed. | |
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Posts: 897
| For those using the Lexa's, how long have you owned them and how do they hold up to heavy use with 10's? | |
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Location: Grand Rapids, MI | Can't comment yet on the Lexa 400 because it's new, should have a couple hundred hours on them by the middle of the year. If durability of the 300 H is any indication it will be very good. I've got a bunch of 300's that have over 200 hours each, a couple have pulled their share of tens, and other than cleaning have been perfect. The much larger 400 should be a double ten beast. | |
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Posts: 68
| I think it's pretty funny that the Calcutta 401 TE is leading as the best reel for Double 10's ??????????????? LOL
I guess it's like someone else said a few days ago, One persons idea of Burning double 10's must be a lot different than my idea of burning 10's......... Granted the Calcutta is labeled a fine reel but I worked my butt off burning 10's with mine and I had a power handle on it.. I would not be my first choice at all, IMO I believe the Tranx PG is a reel that should truly win. just saying | |
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Posts: 1660
Location: central Wisconsin | OP stated he wanted a lefty reel. That rules out the Tranx. | |
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Posts: 68
| Thats true, I'm sure the 400 lexa with 6/1 will be as close to a tranx that a lefty can get.....But Lighter thank God lol | |
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | He also didn't say he wanted it for burning tens. That's why the TE is so popular. It's probably the best all around, not for burning. | |
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Posts: 865
| Propster Johnny is correct The question is: What LEFT HANDED reel would you recommend for a dedicated double 10 set-up? Not what is the best all around reel. And usually you have to burn double 10's to fish them correctly.
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | I'll stand by my original statement, in which since we were talking about double tens, I meant "best all around for double tens". And the OP still was not, and is not, talking about burning. And while I agree the ability to add speed has its advantages at times, I completely disagree that you "usually" have to burn them to be effective. No worries though, carry on. | |
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Posts: 264
| Just saw that American Legacy Fishing has a used Daiwa Lexa 300HSL-P. for sale for $129.99 plus shipping.
In case you are interested. Talmooner
Model: LEXA300HSLP-MK
Manufacturer: Daiwa
Condition: Excellent With Box
Price: $129.99
Reel Type: Casting
Gear Ratio: 7.1:1
Retrieve: Left Hand
Reel Weight: 11.3
http://www.americanlegacyfishing.com/used-casting-reel-daiwa-lexa-3... | |
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Posts: 58
| i think the 401d would have more votes, if a power handle were available | |
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Posts: 667
Location: Wisconsin | Boss - 2/28/2014 9:49 AM
i think the 401d would have more votes, if a power handle were available
I think maybe it is just too new, so not many guys have used one. I am hoping it will be a great reel! I did not vote for it because I have not tried it yet. Maybe next year I can give it the nod. | |
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| Original Poster, here.
Thanks for the input. There's no need to argue about my intentions, I'm interested in people's opinions about what makes a particular reel the right or wrong tool for the job.
Here's where I'm at:
Toro Winch makes it really easy, but is SLOW. I do think the option of speed is important.
Toro 5.4, Calcutta te, etc., are solid all around reels, and can be used to pull tens. It won't be as easy as some, and it won't be as fast as some, but it'll get the job done.
Avet SX (or SJX) may be the best option for true speed. Getting the MC version is important, and regardless, the reel does not have a level wind, and there are some concerns about smoothness and durability. I don't think I'm the kind of guy who would overlook some major shortcomings (to me) like no levelwind in favor of a one trick pony that can really burn them.
Lexa 400HL - This may be The ONE, but no one has really had a chance yet to put them through the wringer. Pikemaster says "It ain't no Tranx", and I believe him. But, will it be a reel that can bring in those 33 ipt without killing the guy trying to add some speed? We don't know. It seems to not have a non-disengaging levelwind, which I wish it did. I look forward to people's reviews on this reel as the DCG season gets under way.
I'm working on a comparison of gear ratios, ipt, overall weight etc., but it's a pain to go to each manufacturer and look up all that stuff, so I may or may not get to it soon, or at all.
Keep those votes, specs, and rationales coming.
Thanks,
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Posts: 667
Location: Wisconsin | Anonymous - 2/28/2014 10:10 AM
Original Poster, here.
Toro 5.4, Calcutta te, etc., are solid all around reels, and can be used to pull tens. It won't be as easy as some, and it won't be as fast as some, but it'll get the job done.
Overall I believe you have a fair summary, however, I personally think you are maybe undervalueing(??) these reels. I know you state they are solid all around reels. With these reels you can get a slower action when desired, say for night fishing, or work fast when you want too. Will it "burn", no, but the 5.4 is probably the most versatile ratio, and the TE is a bit slower but is a real workhorse. Your original post asks for a double tens reel, not a reel to burn double tens. Part of my response revolves around the fact that I am not sold on the Lexa, but time will tell.
In any event, good luck with your search! One great thing is should you go with the Lexa, or Toro or whichever you choose, then decide you don't care for it, there is always someone who will buy it. Then you can start the process again!! | |
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Posts: 426
Location: Perryville, MO | Yep...pretty good summary, but Clammer offered a helpful criticism in terms of the "undervalue" of an all-around reel like the Toro and TE. You want speed and a trusted reel...then get the Avet. At least in my experience I would disagree about the durability concern with Avets. I know a few guys have posted about issues, but far more have had zero problems. | |
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| The third post in the thread has been updated with research on individual reel models. I'll make any corrections, changes or additions that are brought to my attention.
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Posts: 146
Location: Alsip, IL | I have converted every set up I own to either a revo toro ( 1 winch and an Nacl) or lexas. Two 300's and a 400. I love em all and have not had any fail. With routine cleaning and lubrication. Those lexas are little tanks for the price. I dealt with daiwas customer service one time for a lost cast control cap and they overnight shipped 2 of them to me! Service is important to me so that keeps me going back. The Luna is another solid lefty option for 10's. | |
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Posts: 667
Location: Wisconsin | mecoltin123 - 3/1/2014 5:45 PM
I have converted every set up I own to either a revo toro ( 1 winch and an Nacl) or lexas. Two 300's and a 400. I love em all and have not had any fail. With routine cleaning and lubrication. Those lexas are little tanks for the price.
I am glad to hear of your good report on the Lexa. Always nice to have another option, and that especially true for the left handed models! | |
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Posts: 865
| I'm confused .. What does looking for the best Double 10 reel mean??? Doesn't that mean a reel that is capable of quickly bringing in the Double 10's across the top of the water column Bulging, and changing speed at will and should be done in a way that is comfortable and will not fatigue your hand and wrist... If that CAN NOT be done I would not classify it as a Great Double 10 reel... My Opinion is you can cast a Double 10 Bucktail with ANY REEL and yes you can reel them in, but at what speed? Will a 4/1 ratio reel that brings in 18-20 inches per turn be a great Reel for Double 10's .....NO.....But it will still work. Just nowhere near the speed these baits really need to produce fish, over and over again.....I call it burning maybe it should be called very fast? lol | |
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Posts: 410
Location: With my son on the water | I will add that everyone is only talking about the reel..... BUT a much more important factor when throwing 10s is the actual rod and reel handle. Flimsy rods don't cut it as the rod bends too much putting all the lateral force on your wrist/hand that hold the rod. This is why guys get sore.
We throw 10s A LOT and I have experimented with about every left hand set up out there. The Revo 51 if you want to palm the reel is the best we have found, we have tried all 3 gears ratios and the HS is great if you are only fishing 3 to 4 hours. The 5.4 works too and is better if you want to fish all day. The winch is too slow.
BUT the game changer is the reel handle. Get a SUPER CRANKER reel handle from Rocky lures. I can set you up with Mark's E-mail if you want it. This handle is almost 6 inchers long so it gives you a great mechanical advantage and makes cranking easy. It also has two handles so you are more efficient and don't miss the handle like happens with single grips.
Lots of good reel have been mentioned but this is what works for me, but the main thing is the handle and you can get one for all these reels.
I hope this helps. Have a good day.  | |
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| bt, that is helpful. Thank you.
Cast, that is not helpful. You have made it clear that you think speed is important. Do you have a reel recommendation - rather than bashing the opinions of others? You have bought and sold just about every left handed reel there is. The original post asks for specific reel recommendations, along with a rationale for why that particular reel is the best tool for the job, and reel specs, if possible. So do you have one that you have settled on as the best tool for fishing large bucktails at speed?
Also thank you to Clammer, hawkeye, Will Shcultz, and talmooner for your specific recommendations.
For the record, I am capable of using a right handed baitcaster, I just don't enjoy doing so and find it counter-intuitive - which side do have your spinning reel handle on?
Also for the record, my first musky set up (several years ago), was a 7 ft. bps "bucktail" rod with an abu 5601 c4. It's murder with a double ten.
My second set-up is an okuma evx 8'6" xh with a revo toro 61 5.4:1. I love that set up as a fantastic all around rod and reel - will throw just about anything. As bt pointed out, though, the tip on this rod is a little soft/slow for pulling tens. It does add fatigue and makes figure 8's difficult with hard pulling/fast moving baits.
Then I picked up a shimano 301e and put it on that smaller bucktail rod. I love it for the smaller stuff.
Then I bought a shorter, stiffer rod for jerkbaits and such, and moved the original 5601 c4 to that jerkbait rod. It works great, and has plenty of speed to take up slack while working baits with the rod tip.
This winter I picked up a 9 ft., TI XH rod that I believe is significantly faster/stiffer in the tip than the okuma. As above, I have a rod that I love for small stuff, a rod that I love for bigger stuff (not pounders or anything, just larger lures), a rod that works well for jerkbaits. I'm hoping that the TI rod will pan out as a good double ten rod, and am in search of the right reel to pair it with, and I've made my decision. . . at least for now.
No one will ever know if that new Lexa 400HL can do it unless some of us give it a try, right? I'm going to give it a try. Do I think it can be fished as fast as a Tranx HG. . . no. Do I think it will pull as easily as a Tranx PG. . . no. But my hope is that with its size, gear ratio, and long paddle handle, it will be capable of bringing in tens a little slower than an HG, and with a little more work than a PG, and that when paired with a Tackle Industries, 9 ft. XH telescopic rod, it will be a set-up that is much more suitable for fishing large bucktails than any of my other set-ups.
Thanks.
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Posts: 146
Location: Alsip, IL | Last year my hottest bait was easily double bucktails in 10 and 13 size. I threw them 50% of my time on the water easily. To me what makes the best double 10 reel is comfort. I like a reel that is going to make my life less painful at 10 pm when I'm done casting. That's why I chose the revo toro winch for my twin 10 reel. I have it on an 8' 6" musky mojo XH and I can throw that rod all day for four days straight. I did it for a couple long weekends in a row in September. I know a lot of guys preach speed to me and that's a valid argument, I absolutely by no means am burning 10's in, but I've had plenty of success with my winch so for me the speed is fine. I find I trigger more strikes with a really quick pump every 5th crank or so, it really makes the hair come alive under water. To each his own but I want to be comfortable and catch fish and for me the winch does a good job of that. | |
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Left Handed Reel for Double 10's