Conference wahoo::fishing

    YO Bandit,
                ABU GARCIA, there IS no substitute.
                                                       NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~~~

    YO WORM:
    
     I totally agree! I own 5500c's, 2500 c's and some 521's. I just
    wanted something faster than 4.7 to 1, and based on Steelhead
    experience with their spinning reels, Shimano is a great product.
     By the way, do flashlights give you heart attacks?
    
    The Bandit

    I tournament fish several times a year and I fish apro
    a year. The point is My Shimano equipment is always my first choice.
    
    
    My partner used DAIWA but no more!!!!!!
    
    
    		Lunker Luck,
    
    		Dennis

    You be on track now bro....
                                I've got a vintage 6500c (5:1 I think),
    
     a lite plus, a 1022 plus, and a 521 plus. I like them all however
     the lite plus is a pain if you want to remove the spool. Removing
     the screws is a pain. But I guess you get what you pay for. If
    it's spinning you are talking about the mitchell pro series is great.
    5.5;1 I have had my old mitchell 300's for 15 years and they are
    still crankin'. Good reel and my personal choice for spinning reels.
    FLASHLIGHTS.....AHHHHHHH.....I HATE IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS! Good luck
    with the steelies, I'd like to try it sometime. I hear they fight
    like Mike Tyson.
                                    NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~~~~

    YO,
       Oh one more thing. Diawa is short for diarreah. Yuk. Steer clear
    here!
                                       NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~~~~

    You write one crumy note and you get '5' replies already the same
    day. I ask if the water level had improved at the biq Q (in Ma)
    and no one knows nothing. 
    Dont poeple in Mass fish if its either too hot or too cold? I know
    they dont in the rain.
    Lavender Jack from NH..

    yo lavender,
                 I was in that miserable Monodnock tourney in the rain
    all day eh? The best part of that day was the venison on the grill
    at lunch! I don't care about no stinking rain! (the water level
    is OK)
                                                NIGHTCRAWLER~~~~~~~~~~

    
    
    As a Shimano spinning reel lover from the pre-grafite days, I have
    never really liked thier baitcasters. I recently, last year, went
    to the Diawa MAGforce baitcasters. I have hardly incured a single
    backlash. I think the Diawa batcaster's anti-backlash system is
    far superior.
    
    Thank God for opinions,
    
    Bassmaster,
    
    Dave Sullivan  

    	Has anyone else out there experienced any problems with the
    freeline levelwind on the LITE or LITE+ picking up the line correctly?
    I have been having problems with my LITE+ picking up the levelwind
    correctly and ending up with line PILED on one side of the reel.
    	So, I decided that since the antenna fell on my head a couple
    of weeks ago and I can't GO fishing, I would do the next best thing.
    I took the reel off the rod and decided to see if they really MEANT
    it when it states, "DON'T TAKE THE REEL APART ANY FURTHER!", in
    the manual.  So, I proceeded carefully from there.  I discovered
    something that might apply to others who fish with freeline levelwinds
    in MOSSY lakes.  There was MOSS INSIDE the levelwind mechanism fouling
    the spring pin that picks up the levelwind runner as well as moss
    in the rotating pins of the levelwind outer shaft rotating mechanism.
    So, if you fish MOSSY lakes, watch for this one.  (I kept telling
    you guys that this lake is FULL OF MOSS.)  Now, I know I can clean
    and repair this thing myself and not have to wait for 3 weeks to
    get the moss out of it.  

Re: .9

Wayne,

I posted a note a while ago reagrding the SAME problem with my new ABU 521 
reel.  My line piles up on the left side of the reel.  It seems that after 
making a cast and engaging the reel, the free-floating line guide doesn't 
catch until after 4-5 turns of the handle.  In the meantime, the line piles 
up on the left side of the spool.

I'll take a close look at the line guide mechanism when I strip it down this 
winter.  Thanks for the hint.

-HSJ-

     I don't know if this should go elsewhere but if so, please move it,
    DonMac.
     Has anyone had experience with top of the line Daiwa baitcasters ? I'm
    specifically interested in the "ProCaster" series. I just got one of
    the "ProCaster" spinning reels and it's great ! From what I've seen,
    they look real good, and I'm a little unhappy with one of my Shimano's.
    I love the 2 speed, but the other one (I think it's a "BeastMaster" -
    used to retail for around $ 80 or so) is just fair. It has intermittent
    handle engagement problems when I first use it. Anyway, I need a
    "watch" - some "Star Wars" technology. From what I've seen, I don't
    want a Quantum.
     As a footnote, I purchased an All-Star IM-6 rod (my other ones are
    regular All-Stars) and I'm not sure I like it. It "damps" differently -
    feels a little "shivery." I think I'll stay with regular All Stars. As
    a matter of fact, I think the tapers of the IM-6 "bionic blades are
    nicer than the IM-6 All Stars, but the "BB's" don't feel as good to me
    as the non IM-6 All Stars...
     What I really need are some fish...
    
    Consumingly,
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

    
      Bandit...my main man!  Don't count the Quantum out.  I have two and 
    love them.  I'm not sure of the model number I have but it cost me
    about 85 bills at Zyla's.  It's got a super smooth drag and I like it
    over my Shimano reels.  I have the left handed retrieve also.  This 
    allows the Legend to start Cranking that BUZZZ bait...as soon as she
    touches down.  
      Does anyone else like those left hand retrieves?
    
      Bandit, have you ever had a Quantum?  
    
      Legend recommends you check the out.
    
    							Legend 

     Thanks, LEGEND for offering a SERIOUS reply... I've used a Quantum
    spinning reel on Steelhead, and I liked it - I just didn't like the
    looks of the baitcasters - but I could be wrong. I use left hand
    retrieve spinning and fly reels, and both LH and RH baitcasters (am I
    screwed up, or what ?). For some reason, I like crankin' right handed
    on baitcasters, although I'll admit that with buzz baits, the quicker
    you start crankin' the better. I also like a higher gear ratio, and the
    top line Quantum is "only" 5:1. I dunno, maybe I need another 2 speed
    Shimano. You do get more leverage when you kick it down to 4:1, but the
    6:1 is nice to have for "buzzin'," Rat-l-traps, etc. It's funny - I
    used to catch a few fish on "'Trap" type lures, but lately - nada
    (except for the blue "G" finish 1/4 oz. one). I should probably wait
    for the Fishing Show at the Centrum, talk to some guys and see what's
    out there and then decide...
    
    --The Skoal Bandit (A "Legend" only at "The Magic Lantern...")

    I hate to think that I agree with the Legend, but I'm a Quantum fan
    myself.   Love those lifetime warrantees.  Send the reel off to Bucko's
    with $3.50 and you'll have it back like brand new within a week or so.
    
    
    Quantum's Rippin' reel has a 6.1:1 ration.  Although it is not the top
    of the line and can be had for only $56.99.  I gather from your notes
    that you may not feel comfortable dishing out that insignificant amount 
    of cash 8^).   However, they do provide a "3 reel gift pack" which 
    includes the Rippin' reel, the Crankin' reel, the Pitchin' reel,
    in a nice case with oil and some other toys.  This is available for
    $169.99!!!  
    
    donmac
    
    PS: If you still feel like your getting too much of a bargain, you
         can keep the Rippin' reel and give me the rest.

    Not me I'll take my Abu Ultra caster  with its lifetime warranty over
    the Quantums too.  This abu casts very nicely but is a little pricier
    over the quantum running about 79.  However on sale at BPO you can pick
    it up for about 59.  The nice part is it comes with two spools that you
    can change in seconds.  Try that with other baitcasters.  The ultra has
    a flippin switch too and a gearing that 5. something which is fast
    enough for me.
    
    Brian

     I don't wanna spend the $ if I don't HAVE to, but most of the extra
    nice functions cost money (like a good warranty). I tend to take care
    of stuff and use it for awhile, so I'd rather spend the bucks up front
    than buy a middle of the road reel and end up buyin' a top of the line
    later. Besides, it doesn't make sense to me to buy a top of the line
    rod, then put a middle of the road reel on it. There may not be much of
    a difference, but there IS a difference. Do I NEED "top o' the line ?"
    No. Am I willin' to pay for one if it makes sense ? Yes.
    
    --The Extremely Sick Skoal Bandit
    

    I was sticking up for Quantums in general. I also like the ABUs as
    well.  As a matter of fact I have 4-5 ABU baitcasters and only one 
    Quantum baitcaster.  I had 3 Quantum QMD20 spinning reels, which I
    really like, however I lost 2 overboard a couple of years ago.  I also
    use a Quantum QSS2 ultralght which I think is a great little reel.
    
    Most of my rods are Quantums as well. 
    
    donmac  

    I wanted to point out that many reels, not marketed as having 'quick
    change' spools, actually have spools that are very easy to swap. 
    
    A few years back when 'quick change' spools on baitcasters became popular 
    I asked a Shimano rep at the Worcester expo if they had plans to come out 
    with one. 
    
    He grabbed a reel from the demo table, which was one that I owned, not
    marketed as having a 'quick change' spool, spun the thumb screws, took off 
    side and pulled out the spool, all in a matter of seconds, and commented 
    something like, how much easier do you want it?
    
    Most, if not all, of my baitcaster spools can be removed the exact same 
    way. And extra spools may be ordered although they are not really 
    'marketed'.
    
    Personally, I have not found the need to order any extra spools.
    
    How many folks out there actually use mulitple spools with their reels?
    
    donmac

    Don,
    
    I have a couple baitcasters with "quick-change" spool features and have
    yet to change a spool mid-day.  I do however find it easier to pick
    apart the nastier birdsnests by removing the spool from the reel.  I'm
    talking about the backlashes you get when you switch from a 1 oz to 1/4
    oz lure without adjusting the magnetic brake.  Or am I the only one who
    does this?  Or I am I the only one who will admit to this? :-)
    
    If this were to happen while a topwater frenzy was occurring next to
    the boat, I just might be grateful for the extra spool and worry about
    the birdsnest later.
    
    -SSS-

     Yeah, I have an ABU with an extra spool (probably because it came free
    with the reel. Good idea, but I probably used it once. BTW, if you have
    a reel with centrifugal brakes (Like the Garcia 5500C, Royal Express,
    etc. BE CAREFUL (!!!) when you change spools, or the phenolic brake
    blocks will fall off the shaft spindle. The only reels that are
    "bulletproof" to change are the "mag" type reels because the magnets
    are used instead of brake blocks and don't fall off when you unscrew
    the side plate. Any "mag" reel is easy to swap spools...
    
    The Skoal Bandit

    DonMac
    
    I have the ABU with quick change spool and found I use it a lot when
    changing from open water to heavy weed or lily pad beds.  I keep my
    main spool lined with 12lb trilene xt green and the alternate with 17
    lb xt green.  I like to be able to switch to heavier line for bed
    fishing.  With my Abu you pop the side plate off drop the old spool and
    slip in the new.  Even the line guide slides down so you can thread
    the new line out in seconds.  It literally takes seconds to change
    over.
    
    As far as changing the magnetics, sorry Skoal I have been working very
    hard to not use the magnetics or side to side adjustments at all.  I
    zero both out and have increased the casting distance quite a bit.  I
    only use the brakes under heavy wind and light lures.  It was bird nest
    city in the beginning, but now its great.  Like the pro's say you
    don't need brakes thats what the thumb is for.
    
    Skoal, on your abu did you notice there are extra holes on the side
    plate that the magnets rest in?  Have you tried moving them around?  I
    haven't I was just curiious if you knew what they are for.
    
    Brian
         

     Yeah, if you set all your adjustments to "zero," you will get better
    distance. Most of the time I do it too. On my old Garcias with
    centrifugal brakes, I used to take the brake blocks off completely.
    Takes practice, but casting improves.
     What I was really talking about is that any reel using mags is easy
    and safe to change spools on. No parts to fall off - and it doesn't
    matter if it's Abu, Shimano, Daiwa - whatever. As far as the "holes"
    and moving the mags around, don't do it unless you talk to the company
    first to find out if it's o.k. As long as your reel works o.k., why
    mess around ? What do you think you can improve that the manufacturer
    hasn't already worked out ? Generally, if I don't see somethin'
    described in the instructions that come with the reel, I leave it
    alone...
    
    --The (All Thumbs) Skoal Bandit

    Can anyone explain to me how the ball bearings are placed in a
    baitcaster and why its such a big deal?  In looking at my reels my
    Shimano has two my abu has two, but my brothers shimano beastmaster has
    five.  How are these bearings placed in a reel?
    
    Just a curiousity question.
    
    Brian

    
    
     Brian,
    
     You never stop amazing me with your questions. If it wern't for this
    notesfile you'd still be using your closed faced zebco 6lb test with
    mepps spinner w/rooster tail attached.
    
     Now to answer your question. It's like everthing thing else more is
    better at least they'll tell you that. Each reel is built for a 
    different application. You'll find most of your cranking reels will
    have more bearings than a pitch'n reel because your constantly 
    retriving. It also depends on the reels gear ratio. If you buy a reel
    with 2 bearing and a flipping switch, it won't last very long cranking
    20+ rattle traps. 
    
    "Bassmaster"
    
    Who does not yet have a degree as a rocket scientist and hopes he won't
    need it to write in this file or fish.
    
     

    Brain, look at the parts diagram that came with your reel to see
    exactly where they live.  Ballbearings will make the reel 'smoother' 
    to operate.  5 ball bearings will distribute the work more than 2 ball 
    bearings so the real should be smoother and the bearings should last
    longer  - and stainless steel ball bearings will last longer than 
    graphite.
    
    donmac - a s/w engineer who doesn't do h/w but can offer an opinion 

    I'm looking for comments on the 2 speed reels.  Both Abu and Penn make
    automatic 2 speeds.  They claim you can adjust the automatic shift
    point.  Shimano is apparently the only manual shift 2 speed.  The
    manual shift seems better to me (and Cabellas has em on sale), but I
    thought I'd ask opinions here before I order.
    
    Does anyone use an Abu or Penn autoshift 2 speed and if so, how do you
    like it?  Can you manually force speed changes?  Etc.
    

     I talked to the ABU rep., and he wasn't very convincing. I wouldn't
    buy any PENN freshwater stuff - pretty low tech, and not that great. I
    really like my SHIMANO 2-speed, and I highly recommend it.
    
    --The Skoal Bandit

    I have both an Abu and a Shimano and have to admit I would not buy
    another Abu unless I go a classic.  Although the Abu has a great
    warranty and the quick spool shift, its clunky.  No other way to
    describe it, the profile on the Abu's is much bigger than the
    shimano's.  With the Shimano you can comfortably palm the reel when
    retrieving, with the Abu its just too big.  I suppose if you have big
    hands the Abu might be ok, but for me its too big.  
    
    Brian