Do I need a reel just for SwimBaits?

OK, so I bought one of the smaller slammers last year. I don't plan on investing in a ton of large baits
right now but would like to have a couple to throw throughout the season.

Should I buy a reel just for this application? Like a Cardiff or a Ambassador? Or can I get away throwing these on something like a qualifier or similar?

From previous questions, I'm assuming the recommendation would be to invest in a swimbait setup, if so what should I go with?

These are some of the options on sale right now:

SHIMANO CDF300A Cardiff Casting Reel - about $85
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Baitcasting Reel - about $85
SHIMANO CVL300 Corvalus Casting Reel - about $70

Any specific model recommendations within the above?

thanks for any info.

When you say smaller slammer, do you mean the mini or the 7"?

The 7" (3oz. or so) and up, should have a dedicated swimbait setup. I use a Okuma Musky XH rod paired with a Cardiff 301 for my swimbaits. Never had an issue and plenty of back bone to throw bigger baits. FWIW, I throw baits as big as 8 to 10 oz. on this setup with no problems.

7" 1.8 oz.
9" 2.4 oz.

The Cardiff was the first reel I used to throw swimbaits and it gets the job done. I use a Curado 301E now and love it. I have heard the Daiwa Lexa's are decent too.

You can get away with using a low profile baitcaster for that bait but will wear it out very quickly. A BPS Qualifier would not last long.

I recommend getting a setup strictly for swimbaits.

7" 1.8 oz.
9" 2.4 oz.

.

Woops, I had the 12" weight.

Thanks for clarifying.

Yes I was referring to the 7" Slammer. Thanks for the info.

I used it at the end of the season on a cheap casting setup and it was difficult but not impossible.

I guess I'm on the fence about spending money on a setup just for Swimbaits. Trying to justify the purchase.

I recommend getting a setup strictly for swimbaits.

Thanks jbigun.

Yes I was referring to the 7" Slammer. Thanks for the info.

I used it at the end of the season on a cheap casting setup and it was difficult but not impossible.

I guess I'm on the fence about spending money on a setup just for Swimbaits. Trying to justify the purchase.

Once a monster grabs a swimbait, you'll feel justified. Then the fever starts and it becomes an obsession. You'll be hooked in no time. LOL!

Yes I was referring to the 7" Slammer. Thanks for the info.

I used it at the end of the season on a cheap casting setup and it was difficult but not impossible.

I guess I'm on the fence about spending money on a setup just for Swimbaits. Trying to justify the purchase.

Definitely worth it to make the investment. If you use them under the right conditions you will catch more big fish period. I am no expert but throw them often with good results for 3-7lb fish. I'm still learning how to incorporate them into tournaments which is fun. I experimented this year with mixed results but have found a happy medium.

If the reel is a little under powered just use the rod as the work horse. Work the bait with the rod and not he reel. Had to do this for a while last season when my reel went down didnt have any problems.

Last edited by jcotier on Mon Dec 17, 2012 1:52 pm; edited 1 time in total

I remember the first time i casted a swimbait on my BPS JM Carbonlite reel. HAHAHA i thought the reel was going to explode! Was a very dumb idea... definitely invest in a reel that can handle big baits.

thats a good price for that cardiff

I like the cardiff, great reel for the price. Ive had mine dor 4+ yrs wirh no problems.. Tossin slammers to hudds to spro bbzs

If you are still looking for a reel and considering the Cardiff. Walmart.com has the 400A for $89.00 shipped to store. to me you can't beat that price for a decent SB reel.

The reviews on Cardiffs are good, they aren't the top of the line Calcuttas but I have read that they use calcutta parts insde. Check out tackle Tour reviews on the Cardiff.

I have a curado 300e and like it but picked up the cardiff 400A b/c of the lower gear ratio 5.2 (I believe).

If you are still looking for a reel and considering the Cardiff. Walmart.com has the 400A for $89.00 shipped to store. to me you can't beat that price for a decent SB reel.

Bummer, I don't see that price anymore. For that price I'd jump on it now that I've decided to get a Swimbait setup.

I have plenty of time so I'm going to wait until a good clearance sale comes around.

It is still there for that price

here is the link copy and paste into your browswer. if that doesn't work google CARDIFF 400A and search for Walmart and the $89.00 price.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/15550353?adid=22222222227000632136&wmlspartner=wlpa&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=&wl3=21486607510&wl4=&wl5=pla&veh=sem

I just did it to confirm it was there.