Agree with Saibling. It seems $100 is the magic number to climb in to the quality reels from most of the major manufacturers. At that point is seems to be about preference for the most part.

If you buy a reel on eBay and have a problem during the warranty period, I guess you would deal directly with the manufacturer, right? Have you ever had that experience?

Lew's Speed Spool.

Lots of very good reels mentioned. I would not get a Kastking. I have two, one from 2015 still works great, and the same model from 2016--it was grindy and clunky right out of the box. Opened it up and one of the gears was in diagonally, fixed it and it now runs fine.

I also have a Daiwa Aird, and two Daiwa Lagunas which all run great and can be found at times less than $50.

Wish I could comment on the H2O Mettle, but they don't make Left Hand retrieve.

Another one not mentioned (I have three and they are my favorite reels)

Well, after doing my homework, I ordered a new Lew's Speed Spool LFS Reel, SSG1SH, on eBay from catfishsupplyco (73971) for about $83, to be delivered to my door on January 25.

Among other things, I like the frame design with the line guide further from the spool to avoid sharper angles and less friction of line coming off the spool, for longer cast when needed. Also a strong aluminum frame, which will take more stress without flexing and pulling gears out of aleignment.

I have a Diawa Tatula with the T Wing that flips up to cast, and can cast it a mile. Could have gotten another one from the same seller for almost the same price as the Lew's Speed Spool. But I had a Speed Spool years ago, loved it, so decided to give the LFS a try.

Now, I have to pick out a good 7' MH casting rod to match up with the Lew's reel, so will shift my attention to doing that. Will start by looking at a local Academy for convenience, 15 minutes from my house.

Thanks again for all the help. Greatly appreciate it. And if you have a rod to recommend, please speak up.

AbuGarcia Veritas
St Croix Mojobass
Falcon BuCoo

+1 great reel best at throwing crankbaits

Buy two AG Black Max reels, and have $ left for other gear.....been fishing them for a while....best value in fishing gear today.

Take a look at the Dobyns Rods Fury series. These are Dobyns' entry-level rods starting at $109.

+1

Bingo! For spinning check out the Daiwa Revros 2500. Both are fine reels for the money!