Just bought a new rod... need help with reel selection

[JerseyFisher]

So just a few minutes ago I found a deal on ebay, and a got a used (bought march 2010) St. Croix Premier 7' MH M Crankbait rod for $84. I've been looking for a solid crankbait rod for a while now, and I finally got what I was looking for. Early in the week a was about to buy a St. Croix Mojo Crankin' rod w/ an Abu Black Max for $75 but someone got to it before me. So now that I have the rod... a need a reel.

To me it seems there aren't many quality low profile reels w/ low gear ratios in the value price range (~$100). Would I be able to get away with cranking in the 10' to 20' range with something like a Citica or Revo S, or would that cause a lot of strain reeling. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated either on what reels to use (I wanna stay under $150), or if I really need a low gear ratio to supplement the crankin' rod. If I can get away with it I would mostly buy a Citica 201e.

Thanks Guys,

Jack

[Jrob78]

I've not used them but the only reel that immediately comes to mind is the BPS Pro Qualifier. I know they are <$100 and come in cranking gear ratios, people really seem to like them. Daiwa unveiled a low speed Exceler at Icast also but I'm not sure when it will be available.

You can probably find a Curado E5 for $150 on ebay.

[JerseyFisher]

I would love the Curado E5 but they only make them in right hand.

[BigBassin144]

I'd look for a Revo Winch on ebay.

I'd say you would be ok with a 6:1 gear ratio reel for the shallow end of 10-20', but you'll definitely need a low gear ratio for the big 16-20' divers.

BB

[keithdog]

Hey Jersey, I just bought that same rod a month ago. Your gonna love it!!! I have mine paired up with a BPS David Fritts 4.7-1 ratio and I love it! But, that reel isn't sold anymore. But you can buy either a Pro Qualifier or Rick Clunn in lower gear ratios. I have a couple Clunn reels and they have served me very well. I've never used the Pro Qualifier but I do know those who own them love how they handle and cast. I don't think you can go wrong with either reel.

[nofearengineer]

Originally Posted by JerseyFisher

So now that I have the rod... I need a reel.

Man...this guy understands me!!!!!

SYMPATICO!!!!

[geezer1]

I'd go with the Citica.

[nmanley]

I use the Citica's on my two cranking stick and have NO problems cranking 20+ lures with them. It's about getting the bait down to the bottom and being erratic to get a strike.
Also I can swap out to lipless baits on them and have enough speed to work them like they need. I recommend not limiting your versatility with a 5.1 cranking reel. Just my opinion.

[BigBassin144]

If you can (and want to) wait until ICAST products start hitting the shelves, I've heard there is going to be a 4.9:1 gear ratio Daiwa Exceler. I'm assuming it will be the same price as the current one.

BB

[Bassboss]

About all I can think of with a low GR under 150, if the flooger trion, as far as name brand reels go. Other wise look at some store brands, namingly BPS. The PQ I hear is a good reel for the cash, and it has a low gear ratio too.

You should also try getting a citica, than replacing the gear with a curado E5 gear, for a low gear ratio.

edit: Didn't know they were coming out with a low GR Exceler, I'd consider that too!

[dave0943]

The Citica is a great reel. I just bought a Pro Qualifier not long ago and love it. Not the
most expensive reel I own, but performs up there with them. Love the dual brake system. I've had zero birds nests. I have both brakes dialed down and use the thumb. I can cast 1/4 oz jigs a mile. You can't do wrong with a PQ. I like my Cabela's Prodigy and Revo's as well.

[DaveW731]

Bought three of them, different retrieve ratios, different line capacities. Use them for everything from Scum Frogs to crankbaits.

[JerseyFisher]

Went ahead and bought the BPS PQ with the 5.2:1 gear ratio. I still kicking myself for not buying a few weeks ago when it was on sale. But I was able to use a $20 off any order over $100 coupon, to get the final price of the reel and 2 Norman DD22's to $101. Looking forward to pairing it with the rod and seeing how it works.

[Rebbasser]

Jersey, let us know how you like the reel-I have the Fritts reel Keith mentioned but have been eying the PQ as an upgrade.

[walkeraviator]

I love my PQ... i like BPS reels a lot... Rick Clun, Johnny Moris Signature, and pro Qualifier are all great reels that fit in my budget... i will never be able to spend Revo ror curado money til i make captain somewhere...