Hey y'all, just picked up a Cabelas TLR-5 yesterday from the Buda store. These reels have been clearanced out and discontinued in order to prepare for a new model coming in (from what I was told). The reel seems to be very well balanced and sturdy, and is large enough to hold 200yds of 30lb backing with a WF12 line. I'm actually planning on running about 250-300yds of backing and load it with a 10wt floating as a backup to my Allen Kracken on my 10wt TFO TiCrX.

What I was wondering is if anyone has any experience with this reel or knows anybody who does. Even for its size it is just as light if not lighter than some 8wt reels, and I could potentially use it as my salt reel for my 8wt pro II.

Just wanted to know if anyone had any input on the reel.

Thanks y'all!

Well, not on that model specifically, but my input would be to try to determine how sturdy the drag system is.

If you get a fish capable of getting well into that backing, then the quality of the drag system will become more of a determining factor in your success than how much backing it will hold.

I can personally vouch for the Allen Kracken and its drag system...mine has handled 50 pound class king salmon in Alaska and Roosterfish in the Baja...but I would never, ever risk an unknown reel to a trophy fish...just my 2 cents.

Not saying the TLR has or doesn't have an adequate drag system...just saying I would recommend finding out before rather than after. Tight lines!

Oh yea, certainly. I actually have the 12-15wt model of the Kracken mounted on my 10wt (300yds of 30lb backing + 10wt line) and use it for big Jacks, Kingfish, and the like down on the TX coast. It's a monster!

The TLR does have a fully sealed Rulon drag system, and feels just as smooth as the Kracken does in hand, though I've obviously yet to fish the TLR. I have met one guy who has the same reel, and says he has never had an issue. The Cabelas website does have all positive reviews, but there's a whopping total of 3 haha.

In hand it appears to be a very solid reel, my only real concern is that I can't find much in the way of specs or reviews for it. Worst case scenario, I turn around and sell it

Its a good looking reel...and one good jack or king will answer any questions about the drag. I'm betting you will be happy with it.