I’m in the market for an bait casting reel, probably in the $100 range. It will be used mostly for trolling for pike, but I will be doing some casting.
Should I look at a standard bait casting reel (standard as in round), or a low profile reel? What applications are each used for?
Going to pick one up tonight, so some quick input would be appreciated. Thanks,
Lars
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abu 6500 is what I would get for that. They work for trolling but you’ll never now how far back you are. I use line counters for my pike / ski trolling needs. Precion is not as necessary for pike and skis as for say eyes. One reel for both, I’d go for the ABU.
I would definetly second that one. Get the C3 6500. Very nice reals for the money! 
I didn’t notice that one on Cabela’s website at first. Looks like it’s right up my alley. Thanks guys.
What should I spool it with? Backing and then some 40# PowerPro?
yep or fireline crystal
If you’ve never used a 6500 before, I would make sure you test one at a store, they are very big and not comfortable for casting. A 5500 is plenty for pike and I actually use them for muskie as well. I would recommend a 5600 if you’re going to go with that syle of reel.
Otherwise for regular pike action (i.e. not fly-in Canada pike) a low profile model will work just fine. For $100 I don’t have any recommendations from Shimano or Daiwa, my two prefered choices for baitcasters but I bet the Pfleuger guys could recommend a good low profile reel for $100.
I prefer the Abu C4 over the C3 for the thumb bar. But, both are great reels and they are made in Switzerland not CHINA. And if you can find one they have a line counter side plate that replaces the bait clicker.
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