Who uses spinning reels and what brand/size do you use?

Duane

I ordered several of the Kast King Sharky 3 reels. I've used them fishing the surf, and catfishing. Caught up to a 40lb cat no problem. Reeled in a big ray at the gulf in march bout whipped me, but the reel handled it fine. Also about a 40lb drum in heavy current put up a 15 minute fight, no problem. I've used the 3000, 4000, and 5000. I like the ones with the baitrunner clicker built in.

I've only owned them a year, but they're great for $60. They feel as nice as any Penn I've used. I'm sure the difference would be longevity, but so far no issues.

You just got to major points I was looking at. I favor Penn reels and I want a Live Liner/Bait Runner.

I am as debating the Fierce III Spinfisher VI, but was wondering about the Piscifun Carnivore and KastKing Sharky

I mean, if you want to spend alot, i'm sure that eventually the Penn would be better. But there's nothing wrong with the Sharky 3 after a year of good use.

You are so awesome!!!

If I was 100% adamant about buying a Penn, I would have never asked for advise!

KastKing reels have good reviews. I’m extremely partial to the Okuma Avenger ABF reels.

I love it, bring it on. LOL.

Dieter Melhorn been wearing them out on those new Piscifun Viper X and Carnivore spinning reels, plus they have a feature like a clicker too, if you want to freespool it. Not very expensive either.

Dieter is the reason I was entertaining the idea of a Piscifun reel. I have two Piscifun fly reels, but that is like comparing apples to oranges.

Dieter is awesome. He makes it look easy. I also love the way he is promoting the sport and not the expensive gear.

The “clicker” option is the Bait-Feeder / Live Liner options we were discussing. And I agree 100% with you, they are advantageous to use for cat fishing. LOL

I have three Daiwa BG's,6500,5000 & 4500.Never found smoother drags on any reel at this price point,bout $110-120 at SRMO.They'll horse in beast or let you play them.Probably the only spinning reels I'll ever own for big blues.

I should preface this with the fact that I have:
Penn Battle II 2500
Penn Conflict 2000
Penn Clash 2500
Daiwa BG 2500
Daiwa BG 3000

I think the BG is an awesome reel. I am just looking for a “bait feeder” option.

I even considered the Daiwa Emcast Bite Run. No one has brought it up yet. LOL

I've seen the Emcast but have no experience with it.I'm strictly a tightliner/slip floater with circle hooks

Ok, after looking at Daiwa a little more I found out what these types of reels are favored for carp fishing. A lot of the reviews I have found are not in English. LOL.

THANK YOU to everyone who responded!! I am going to go to the carp section and ask questions.

Interesting conversation guys. I watch Dieter all the time and I agree with the comment about him being helpful by using reels, both baitcasters and spinning reels, that don't break the bank. All this gives context for guys who are either just starting out or wanting to upgrade. When it comes to rods and reels it seems there are more and more options everyday. Like everything else it's a buyer beware system. A manufacturer slaps a catfish on the side of a reel and charges $30 more for it.

I bought some Kast King Brutus reels for channel cat fishing this summer. I want to see what my grandkids can do with a slip cork rig and some punch bait when the blues are on the nest in June. I'm looking forward to using them.

Tight lines fellas!

While the majority of my fishing is from the bank, indulge me and share what size reel you prefer for Blues, if you would be so kind.