reel recommendation please

[bunkatabunka]

Im looking for reel recommendations for a new baitcaster. something comparable to a abu garcia ambassadeur (reel i need to replace, nothing but problems with the abu). looking for something reliable and casts well. $100-$120 range, and no freshwater reels. its going on a 7' shimano teramar, all around boat rod for fluke, casting light tackle for bass, tog etc. thanks in advance for the help!

[The Sporting Life]

Hi,

Have you looked at the AVET SX's Conventional .....has 14 lbs. of drag at full strike?.....Great Reel for Fluking, Stipers, etc....also, there's the SXJ...

Regards,
Tom

[Capt. Lou]

Spend a few bucks more get a Penn Fathom #12 ! I've been using these reels since they came out several years back own 6 in different sizes now they been excellent on all fronts . I own several,competitors reels some very costly but $ for $ these fathoms hard to beat ! I'm sure many sponsors carry them u should give them a hard look !

[MrAC1980]

Your gonna be limited for a decent baitcaster around 100bucks. Here are the ones I use and recommend:

Quantum Accurist 100
Quantum Energy PT
Avet SXJ Non-MC (doesn't have levelwind)
Daiwa Lexa 300H
Shimano Tranx 300A (way over your budget but def worth the look)
**Each of the above need a power handle upgrade from Jigging World to turn them into Monsters!**

[bunkatabunka]

Does anyone have any experience with the Shimano Calcutta 400? Im looking for a level wind reel preferably

[hammer4reel]

Penn fathom with a levelwind is a well built reel.
would go with it it in a 15 size if doing mostly fluke fishing.
if doing more bass I would step it up to a 20

[Gerry Zagorski]

I've owned several Calcuttas, they are were work horses but that design has to be going on 20 years old now. @ $240 there are newer, less clunky and lighter weight low profile choices out there with cast control and infinite anti reverse that are way better for casting and are going to feel a lot better....

If level wind is a must @ $240, the Daiwa Lexa would be a much better choice in my opinion.

[Riz]

the calcutas are solid reels but its gonna be more than your 100-120$ budget . lots of good choices on above posts

[catfishonthelake]

I do plenty of both saltwater and musky fishing and many reels work very well for both. If you want a solid all-around level wind the Abu C4 will get the job done. If you want it to last more than 3-4 years, buy the Calcutta 400B. Despite being a model that's been around for a while it's an incredible all purpose reel. It has enough drag for muskies and enough line pick-up to handle any inshore NE species. I've had one for 15 years that has caught stripers, muskies, fluke, flathead catfish and has been completely caked in mud on several occasions. I sent it in once for servicing and it still works like it's brand new. I used the Lexa and Luna with less than stellar results. Luna's are famous for the ARB bearing busting which makes for a very annoying day on the water when it inevitably happens.