Best reel under $100?

[MathGeek]

Some spinning reel experience:

We bought 8 Shimano Symmetre 3000's back in 2012 and after 2 years of hard service, they are still doing very well. We chase bulls in the passes and on the beach, so we really put the drag systems to the test. I think we'll buy the 4000 next time for a bit more line capacity as we've been close to getting spooled a few times.

The drag on these reels tops out at 15 lbs, so when a really big fish wants to make an extra run or two after spooking at the boat, it's hard to stop him. Nonetheless, the cost is only $85 at Wal-Mart, so I would rank this as the best reel under $100, because getting a heavier drag in a Shimano reel (Spheros, for example) pushes the price above $100.

We like the Spheros 6000's we're using at the beach. These are designed as saltwater reels and have heavier drags (22 lbs). They break the price point, though at closer to $125.

[Natural Light Kid]

Originally Posted by MathGeek

Some spinning reel experience:

We bought 8 Shimano Symmetre 3000's back in 2012 and after 2 years of hard service, they are still doing very well. We chase bulls in the passes and on the beach, so we really put the drag systems to the test. I think we'll buy the 4000 next time for a bit more line capacity as we've been close to getting spooled a few times.

The drag on these reels tops out at 15 lbs, so when a really big fish wants to make an extra run or two after spooking at the boat, it's hard to stop him. Nonetheless, the cost is only $85 at Wal-Mart, so I would rank this as the best reel under $100, because getting a heavier drag in a Shimano reel (Spheros, for example) pushes the price above $100.

We like the Spheros 6000's we're using at the beach. These are designed as saltwater reels and have heavier drags (22 lbs). They break the price point, though at closer to $125.

Sorry, I was referring to bait casters.

[MathGeek]

Originally Posted by Natural Light Kid

Sorry, I was referring to bait casters.

Thought you might be, but with the vague title, I thought others might look here for spinning reel advice.

[slaunchdonkeyslayor 6969]

I personaly own three reels that are about 99$ and I find that they are all great reels, the first one i got was a dawia exceler its great for a crainkbait reel, i also own a shimano canean, it is a great reel but i had to set my pins before i could fish is, it is not like some reels where you can fish i right out the box, i also own a lews speed spool like everyone else on the website suggests, it is a all around great reel, had i for a mounth now and no complaints at all, the oversized paddles makes it feel great in your hands, very comfortable reel i did have a h20, i was a great reel chought more fish on it then other reel, and thing threw like a charm, but they tend to go out real easy.

[Montauk17]

IMO spend the extra money and get a shimano curado. The new ones are sick.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-2014-Shi...item5409038f22

[smooth move]

i've had good luck with the shimano caenan(sp?) only have one but it's holding up well with normal upkeep.

[Natural Light Kid]

Just ordered a Lews SS1H. Does anyone have experience with these around salt water?