Would like some opinions on quality bait casting reels in the $50-75 range. Need to hold at least 120 yds. of 20# test. I plan to use for drift rigs for 20-35 pound kings in alaska? thanks in advance for your input.

The best reel for the money that I have found is the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500 C3. I kust picked three of them up at GI Joes for $64.99 each.
KEEP THE RIVERS CLEAN!!!

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dank

I would have to go with K......for the money those are probaly your best bet! Now for more money--the game changes!!

I use the 5500 for steelies, chum, and coho. I have been told they are a little small for kings, haven't tried yet, yuo might look at the 6500 it is a little heavier, a little more line. I believe about $79.00 (not sure on the price). If any of you gentlemen have used the 5500 for kings let me know how it did. I was told the drag didn't hold up and couldn't take the fight of the king. If the 5500 holds up it will save me from buying 2 more reels. Thanks (Left handed 5501)

Doubletake

The best reel for the money that I have found is the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500 C3. I kust picked three of them up at GI Joes for $64.99 each.
KEEP THE RIVERS CLEAN!!!

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dank

I exclusively use 5501's on my casting rods. Only exceptions is a couple 6501's on my plug rods and a couple 6001's on my old plunking rods. I've caught MANY kings, biggest around 55lbs on a 5501. Never had a problem and never had a drag fail. You'll be just fine, and with 20lb test you'll fill it up to about 100 yards. I'd say you'll be fine, but I'd suggest going up to the 6500, that way you'll have extra line and alot less wear on the bearings (due to high rpms of a smaller spool unloading quicker). I use around 12/15 lb test on all my 5501's. So there's my .02 hope it helps....

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My vote is for a Bantam 1000p. Because of the direct drive feature. But with out a direct drive I vote for either a ambassaduer 6500 c4 or the shimano bantam 50(same as 1000P without direct drive). The 6500 c4 is a very nice real also(no direct drive). If you weren't fishing for kings I would go with the 5500 ambassaduer....you will want the extra bit of line for kings that have a mind of there own. I use 20# line almost year round and the 1000P is without a doubt my workhorse..... These reels will also allow you to go to 25# if needed. Needed to add that you should stay away from the reels with a thumb bar = trouble.

Tight lines


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Marty www.steelheader.net
marty@steelheader.net



[This message has been edited by smilesforu (edited 06-01-2000).]