I am thinking about buying some new reels, but am set back by the price of many of the new reels on the market. I've always been partial to Abu Garcia reels. They are fairly inexpensive (under $100) and last forever. Are there any suggestions in this price range that are as good or better than the Garcia's or should I just stay with what works?

Nate, go to Acadamy, walk to the reel counter and say "I'd like to see that Pinnacle reel, please" You'll thank me....

I forgot to post that I am looking for baitcasting reels. How much are the Pinnacle reels? Who makes them?

I was comparing the Shimano Curado to the Pinnacle one day and my parnter suggested puting the Pinnacle on a rod and check the balance of it. I already have all Curado's. Anyway I noticed real quick the reel felt to be heavier to one side over the other.
I found this to be a good way to compare reels on the rods. Just an FYI when reel shopping.

Shane

The daiwa advantage is an awesome reel and can be found in that price range on the net. Daiwa reels have a complete free spool when casting and this leads to great distance. I know lots of u guys love the shimano curados but after having used the daiwas, I can never go back to the shimano reels. I have a few pinnacle reels and I dont recommend them. I do use one that is on a 7'6 rod but it just doesnt seem as well made as my other reels. I have had drag problems with it and also had another one that the clutch arm wore down on. Whatever that piece is that keeps the gear from going back. The pinnacles look nice but I just dont think they are as well made as a daiwa or shimano. I have given my shimanos and daiwas much abuse and they keep on ticking, regardless of how ugly they get. Good luck on purchasing your new reel but do some research online before u purchase. Read about what all the reels have to offer and check out reviews. Daiwa is at the top of the game when it comes to new reel improvements and modifications. Their new airbail system and free spool are just awesome and the reels can cast a country mile.

Nate If you can find a way to spend a little more
Take a look at the Abu Turno 3006HSI about 129.00
It is one great reel. Sealed for saltwater use

Yes.

I use 6000/6500 on a dialy basis they get lots of use and abuse with catfish up to 40 lb along with red drum in the 30-36 inch size. They serve me well, everybody has parts for em and nearly anyone can fix em.
Work for me and lots of other people. For the way I fish theres no comparison, or I'd use em.

I would look at the Garcia 3006 HSI or Pflueger President both go for around $129. Can not beat either.

I just got the Bass Pro Shop Pro Qualifier reel it is a small reel and is on sale for $79 right now. So far I like it alot we will se how long it last. We also got the new smaller Extreme reels (green color) reels for my wife since they make a really small one now to fit her hands. Good reels for the price.

The pinnacle baitcasters are great reels for how inexpensive they are. The are extremly smooth and have good drag set ups.

Cabelas is featuring a Quantum Accurist Combo with a tour edition rod. IMO this is the best baitcast reel for under $100. Normal price is $79 for the reel alone. There are two new stores opening in Texas this week. I visited the DFW store day before and found the fishing department stocked well. Grand opening is the 15th.

Shoot, I just got the Pinnacle "Tiny Deadbolt" at academy a few days abck already landed over 30 fish eith it. I bought this smaller sipiing reel to match to my Jery Hancock Custom 8ft rod.
Really havea good match and only about $65 total inculding line!
The Pinnacle reel was $20 and a better $20 reel Ive never seen. Oversized as in stout, bail and 4 bearings and titanium line roller anda Trulon front drag system. Im very happy.
Think ill go buy and duplicate everything one more time.

Just make shure you dont buy the Ambassiter LP series. They make a 2005LP and a 4006 LP. Trust me, do not buy them. I have seen too many of them break too easyily.

What I would recommend is a Shimano Curado, you can get one for only 119.99. They come in three gear ratios. They are good, and last forever. But, you better get them while they are still here, they are about to be gone.

I use nothing but Calcuttas, Shimano's warranty is one of the best in the industry. I have upgraded all my reels to 200GTs and DCs so have a few of the regular 200s (silver ones) for sale if you are interested. 2 of them are brand new, I also have a Pinnacle (used twice) that I will let go really cheap. Abus are nice reels and last forever but once you cast a Calcutta I promise you will not go back to a Garcia. hit me up if you are interested.

Shimano Cardiff same specs as a Calcutta but has more bearings and is only $109.99.