Best Bang for the $...Shimano TLD25 or...?

[bayside]

Looking to re-rig this offseason, and wanted to get peoples thoughts on this reel. $125-175 is my price range, give or take. I have some experience with these reels, and was impressed with the weight and feel of them. Can anyone comment on these or similar models? I'm looking for capacity in the 600yds @ 30# range.

Many thanks and happy holidays!

[SageBoy]

Can not comment on either but I would suggest looking at the Cabela's Salt Striker series reels. I picked up one a couple of months ago and I am very impressed. Half the price of some of the reels you just mentioned.

I'm looking to replace some of my Penn's and will do so with the Cabela's.

[SamRiley]

How much drag do you need and how will they be fished? Also, I don't have hard facts on this but I've heard a few times that Cabelas and Bass Pro branded copies do not always use the same components so be careful.

[bayside]

I'll mainly be pulling umbrella rigs and bars, nothing too heavy (< 20ozs). Not sure how much drag, but w/30# line, maybe 15lbs max? I always confuse myself with adjusting to rod rating/reel rating/line rating. I like these TLD 25s, mainly because of the price. To move up to something more beefy with more capacity is a huge jump $$$wise. Just curious what experiences people have had with them, good and bad.

Bayside

[SamRiley]

I looked at the TLDs for Tuna trolling but didn't think they were up to the task. For the drag you are looking for you should be fine. I was going to go with Penn GLDs but then Shimano came out with the Tyrnos and I fell in love. At $250 they are more than you are looking to spend but with 30# of drag I was more comfortable about the prospect of hooking up with something big. Didn't get a chance to put them to the test but it's scary how much pressure I can put on with a belt and brace.

[bayside]

Very interesting. I wasn't aware that line (Tyros) existed. I thought the TLD was second to the Tiagra for lever drag reels offered by Shimano. I've also looked at the Penn GLDs. But wow, that Tyros looks really nice. may have to up my spending limits.

Thanks