23 replies to this topic

[JHudd11]

Hey everyone I'm new to this forum and I am looking for a new baitcaster to put on a Duckett Micro Magic either 7'3 or 7' rod. I've been looking at two reels in particular, the Shimano Chronarch 200e6 and the Quantum Smoke 150 6:6:1. I've heard great things about both. I will be fishing mainly large-mouth bass and occasionally taking it on a trip for more exotic fish. When I'm not fishing the lakes closer in my area, every once in a while I will drive about 2-3 hours to Lake Fork. In these reel I am looking for durability, smoothness, and overall performance. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
--Jett

[LgMouthGambler]

The one that starts with an "S" and ends in "O" is the brand that will give you all you are looking for.

[Dr. Watson]

x2 for the Shimano, I haven't had any luck with quantum products except for their hot sauce. You should like that Chronarch very much, go try one at your local shop, it's very similar to the older Curado.

[j.bruno]

Shimano

[Hi Salenity]

7.0 Shimano

[unionman]

I own six quantum reels. both spinning and BC. They are ALL top quality reels. Im always outcasting my buddies with ease. Very smooth. Easy to clean and oil. Not over-priced like most high end BC's.

[new2BC4bass]

Im always outcasting my buddies with ease.

Could be your skill has a bit to do with that!

[unionman]

Lol. thx but Im not to sure about that. Just started baitcasting about three months ago.. While I do have excellent eye hand coordination, timing and rythym (all are important in casting). I think it is mostly because of my superior gear. Made a big difference after adding Quantum Hot Sauce, just wait until I get my Boca Bearings in there and some KVD line spray. Then Ill be able to reach out and touch some fish!

[BamaBassChaser]

x2 on the Quantums. I love mine, they cast great and are really smooth. I think TW has a sale going right now on a couple of them.

[unionman]

I just got a tour edition for $110 off!

[smalljaw67]

I don't think you can go wrong with either choice. I have the Smoke 150HPT 7.3:1 and it is super solid and I believe the best baitcasting reel Quantum has ever made. I don't own but I have used both the older Chronarch and the newer one and while they did make the new one a little cheaper it is still a very good reel so whatever chioce you make will be a good one.

[ChiCityBasser]

Great choices and never handled the Shimano but I have 10 Quantums and the Smoke is a great reel and my next B/C as well so I would go with the Quantum

[Mr Swim Jig]

I have been fishing the 1 Qunatum Smoke I have since they came out and I have been very surprised so far. No problems and very smooth and very nice drag. I tried one just do soley to the looks of the reel.

With that said I would go with either reel and I believe you will be very happy.

[Fishes in trees]

In the great Quantum/Shimano debate, here's my take. Since I've taken Bass Fishing seriously, (mid 80's) I've owned numerous brands of reels. In those earlier years, many of those reel choices were determined by economics. Late 90's, I acquired a couple of Quantum round reels, IRON IR4CW, very cheap due a store going out of business. They were a good quality, mid-level Quantum reel at that time. Around the same time, I acquired a couple of Calcuttas. Around the same time, I acquired a boat and was getting into carrying multiple rods so I could switch around between different techniques easier. Both the Calcuttas and the Quantum reels saw regular use. I used the Quantums more for throwing cranks and rattle baits, mostly because of a higher line capacity. By 2004 the Quantum reels were worn out. Noisy, rude clicking sounds, didn't always engage instantly, etc. Now it is 2012 and the Calcutta reels are still in the first string rotation. Matter of fact, they just seem to get smoother with age.

So, while that Quantum is a smooth and good reel now, I have my doubts about longevity due to my experiences with a similar Quantum product. Basically I see it as a matter of pick your poison. Relatively equal price points? I'd go with the Shimano brand based on my experiences. Less money and all you're looking for is a serviceable reel for a few seasons, Quantum becomes more attractive.

[JHudd11]

So is it true that the Shimano Chronarch e and Curado e are the same reel?