Tilefish reel recommendation

[Skolmann]

Originally Posted by aduma1107

Dave from Reel Seat is who you should get in touch with.

+1 Dave is the man to talk to about tilefishing rods/reels & rigs.

[JayO]

The Reel Seat is the place to visit. Single speed, 4.0 to 4.5 ratio has worked for me. I use a Penn Baja and JM PE8. Dave carries the Fin Nor as mentioned already, and also the Maxel Ocean Max for a little more than your limit. Bring your current rod down to compare to the rods he carries too. Good luck!

[DeniseNCC1701]

Thanks for all the great responses, I appreciate that! Looking forward to picking up some new schtuff.

[jjdbike]

What do you guys think of the Okunma Makaira MK-15II SEa loaded w/ 50lb flat hollow for tile fishing?

This reel will also be used for other deep drops trips & possibly jigging for tuna (e.g., Yankee Capts out of Key West, Mid range trips out of San Diego CA etc). I like to two speed option incase I'm lucky enough to hook into a tuna.

Honestly the Makaira is a little pricey for me so I'm also considering the Penn Baja for price, durability and ease of servicing. One downside is I'll lose that low gear.

What are your opinions of the Makaira vs the Baja? I'm also considering the Ocean Max.

Thanks!
JD

[Mike S.]

There is an aftermarket low gear set for the Penn fathom should you decide to go that route. I have one in my fathom 12

[LUCKY RIG'R]

I have been using a Penn Baja Special loaded with 50# masterbraid and am happy with it. It is one of the taller reels so not so good for smaller hands. This year I'm going to a Maxel 09 or 10 for my primary. But, I would ask Dave too.

[Garone Custom Rods]

I would not go with the Mak 15. Too wide and also heavy. Great reel for chunking and lite trolling but not a good choice for jigging or tiles. I would go with the maxel.