Pinnacle1

Kluo: Thanks for your interest. Pinnacle's new Tournament Class bass rods are application specific, with designs/lengths/tapers made for handling a wide variety of bass fishing techniques. There are 15 different models within the series. Each high-modulus graphite rod features proprietary Double Helical contruction, where layers of carbon tape are wrapped around graphite prepreg in opposite directions. That allows for the elimination of glass "scrim" and resin, making for an exceptionally lightweight, sensitive blank that's also super strong and powerful. Fuji components throughout, including New Concept Alconite guides and high quality Fuji reel seats. These rods are truly state of the art, but they'll retail for about $100 less than our competitor's top-of-the-line rods. They should be available to the general public in late fall 2010 or early 2011. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

To enter each phase of the "Sneak Peak" Pinnacle Tournament Class Rod Giveaway, you'll need to submit your information via private message every two weeks (we'll be selecting a total of 3 winners at the end of each two-week phase of the contest). At the end of each two week phase, we'll announce the winners of that phase, and remind you that the next phase of the contest will be starting. The current phase of the contest is open to entries through May 30, 2010. The winners of that drawing will be selected/announced on May 31. We'll begin accepting entries for drawing phase #2 on May 31, 2010 (the winners of that drawing will be selected/announced on June 14. Remember, when submitting your entry, be sure to supply: full name, e-mail address, regular mail (shipping) address, and your favorite angling technique. Good Luck! Pinnacle1

deermaster: Thanks for your recent post. We're glad, but not surprised, to learn that you're impressed with your Pinnacle Platinum Plus baitcaster. Hard to beat, especially for the price. Don't worry, that reel should serve you well for multiple seasons. Be sure to keep an eye out for our new Tournament Class bass tackle, designed by top BASS Elite Series pros. Professional-grade, custom quality reels/rods at affordable prices. The lineup will debut at this year's tackle trade show in Las Vegas, and should be available to consumers in late fall 2010 or early 2011. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

Actually, the contest was slated to start "officially" on May 17, 2010. We first announced the contest a few days prior to this in our original post, so there was a little confusion there. We began to receive entries immediately after our initial post. That being the case, we decided to accept those entries submitted by BR members prior to the official May 17 start date. The ongoing (first) two-week drawing phase of the contest (May 17 - 30) will conclude on May 30. We'll select three (3) winners on May 31 for that phase of the contest. Then, we'll be running four additional contest drawing phases every two weeks (May 31 through June 13, June 14 through June 27, June 28 through July 11 and July 12 through July 28). You can enter each phase of the drawing during the dates listed above. In total, fifteen (15) rods will be given away over a 10-week period -- (three rods every two weeks). Good Luck, Pinnacle1

Enter Pinnacle's Sneak Peak Tournament Class Rod Giveaway Three New Tournament Class Perfecta Rods to be Given Away Every Two Weeks! How would you like to be among the very first consumers to fish with (and own) one of Pinnacle's new state-of-the-art Tournament Class Perfecta rods, designed by top B.A.S.S. Elite Series and FLW touring pros? While these feather light, hyper-sensitive, super strong rods won't be available to the general fishing public until early 2011, we're giving some away FREE to a select group of lucky Bassresource.com users NOW. We ask only one favor in returnthat each winner post a brief personal review of the rod he or she receives at the Bassresource.com Fishing Rods, Reels, Line, Leaders and Knots forum (just telling us and other BR forum members what you think). We're that sure of the quality and performance of this exciting new lineup of professional-grade rods! We'll be giving away a total of fifteen (15) Perfecta rod models (three rods every two weeks), over a period of ten weeks (May 17 through July 11, 2010). Each winner will receive one (1) Pinnacle Perfecta rod designed specifically for your favorite bass-fishing application (i.e. worm/jig, drop-shot, Carolina-rig, Senko, cranking, flipping/pitching, spinnerbait, buzzbait, topwater swimbait, frog or spinning/finesse) a $144.99 to $169.99 retail value. To enter, simply send a private message (PM) to me (Pinnacle1) containing your full name, e-mail address, regular mail (shipping) address and favorite angling technique. Three (3) NEW winners will be randomly selected every two weeks. Once the initial drawing concludes, you'll need to re-enter to be eligible for the next drawing. The specific start date for entering each drawing, as well as the winner selection date for each drawing phase, will be posted at this section of the Bassresource.com forum. *Note: By entering the above contest, your e-mail address will be automatically added to the Silstar/Pinnacle opt-in e-mail list. Any information you provide will be kept private by Silstar/Pinnacle, and will NOT be shared with any third-party vendors. Three winners will be selected every two weeks during the contest period, and winners will receive notification from Silstar/Pinnacle by e-mail. Participants will need to sign up again to be eligible for the next drawing period (entries from the previous 2-week drawing period will NOT carry over). Following notification, each winner will have 3 days to respond in order to claim his/her new Pinnacle Tournament Class Perfecta Rod (MSRP: $144.99 to $169.99, depending upon specific model).

Enter Pinnacle's Sneak Peak Tournament Class Rod Giveaway Three New Tournament Class Perfecta Rods to be Given Away Every Two Weeks! How would you like to be among the very first consumers to fish with (and own) one of Pinnacle's new state-of-the-art Tournament Class Perfecta rods, designed by top B.A.S.S. Elite Series and FLW touring pros? While these feather light, hyper-sensitive, super strong rods won't be available to the general fishing public until early 2011, we're giving some away FREE to a select group of lucky Bassresource.com users NOW. We ask only one favor in returnthat each winner post a brief personal review of the rod he or she receives at the Bassresource.com Fishing Rods, Reels, Line, Leaders and Knots forum (just telling us and other BR forum members what you think). We're that sure of the quality and performance of this exciting new lineup of professional-grade rods! We'll be giving away a total of fifteen (15) Perfecta rod models (three rods every two weeks), over a period of ten weeks (May 17 through July 25, 2010). Each winner will receive one (1) Pinnacle Perfecta rod designed specifically for your favorite bass-fishing application (i.e. worm/jig, drop-shot, Carolina-rig, Senko, cranking, flipping/pitching, spinnerbait, buzzbait, topwater swimbait, frog or spinning/finesse) a $144.99 to $169.99 retail value. To enter, simply send a private message (PM) to me (Pinnacle1) containing your full name, e-mail address, regular mail (shipping) address and favorite angling technique. Three (3) NEW winners will be randomly selected every two weeks. Once the initial drawing concludes, you'll need to re-enter to be eligible for the next drawing. The specific start date for entering each drawing, as well as the winner selection date for each drawing phase, will be posted at this section of the Bassresource.com forum. *Note: By entering the above contest, your e-mail address will be automatically added to the Silstar/Pinnacle opt-in e-mail list. Any information you provide will be kept private by Silstar/Pinnacle, and will NOT be shared with any third-party vendors. Three winners will be selected every two weeks during the contest period, and winners will receive notification from Silstar/Pinnacle by e-mail. Participants will need to sign up again to be eligible for the next drawing period (entries from the previous 2-week drawing period will NOT carry over). Following notification, each winner will have 3 days to respond in order to claim his/her new Pinnacle Tournament Class Perfecta Rod (MSRP: $144.99 to $169.99, depending upon specific model).

ENTER PINNACLE'S TOURNAMENT CLASS ROD GIVEAWAY! Three New Tournament Class Perfecta Rods to be Given Away Every Two Weeks! How would you like to be among the very first consumers to fish with (and own) one of Pinnacle's new state-of-the-art Tournament Class Perfecta rods, designed by top B.A.S.S. Elite Series and FLW touring pros? While these feather light, hyper-sensitive, super strong rods won't be available to the general fishing public until early 2011, we're giving some away FREE to a select group of lucky Bassresource.com users NOW. We ask only one favor in returnthat each winner post a brief personal review of the rod he or she receives at the Bassresource.com Fishing Rods, Reels, Line, Leaders and Knots forum (just telling us and other BR forum members what you think). We're that sure of the quality and performance of this exciting new lineup of professional-grade rods! We'll be giving away a total of fifteen (15) Perfecta rod models (three rods every two weeks), over a period of ten weeks (May 17 through July 25, 2010). Each winner will receive one (1) Pinnacle Perfecta rod designed specifically for your favorite bass-fishing application (i.e. worm/jig, drop-shot, Carolina-rig, Senko, cranking, flipping/pitching, spinnerbait, buzzbait, topwater swimbait, frog or spinning/finesse) a $144.99 to $169.99 retail value. To enter, simply send a private message (PM) to me (Pinnacle1) containing your full name, e-mail address, regular mail (shipping) address and favorite angling technique. Three (3) NEW winners will be randomly selected every two weeks. Once the initial drawing concludes, you'll need to re-enter to be eligible for the next drawing. The specific start date for entering each drawing, as well as the winner selection date for each drawing phase, will be posted at this section of the Bassresource.com forum. *Note: By entering the above contest, your e-mail address will be automatically added to the Silstar/Pinnacle opt-in e-mail list. Any information you provide will be kept private by Silstar/Pinnacle, and will NOT be shared with any third-party vendors. Three winners will be selected every two weeks during the contest period, and winners will receive notification from Silstar/Pinnacle by e-mail. Participants will need to sign up again to be eligible for the next drawing period (entries from the previous 2-week drawing period will NOT carry over). Following notification, each winner will have 3 days to respond in order to claim his/her new Pinnacle Tournament Class Perfecta Rod (MSRP: $144.99 to $169.99, depending upon specific model).

Pinoy_Basser: Thanks for your recent post. Below are answers to your VS10 reel questions from our customer service department. If you want to obtain any replacement drag washers for this model, please contact Don Cooper at our authorized warranty/service center in SC (Tel: (803-794-2221, e-mail: service@pinnaclefishing.com). Pinnacle VS10 1) It is not uncommon for drag washers to become stuck to the drive gear (main gear) over time. This is a common occurrence in older reels cleaned or overhauled here in our service center. 2) Generally, a stuck drag washer can be lifted free by working its' edges with a small flathead screwdriver (like a jeweler's screwdriver). Be careful not to scratch the drive gear when working the drag washer free. Once free, clean the drive gear surface of any remaining material dirt, etc, and inspect the drag washer. If your drag washer is not torn, deformed, or badly discolored (soaked or wet looking) it will generally continue to perform well. 3) We do not recommend using drag grease on Pinnacle drag washers. They are designed / made of materials that perform better without grease. Your reel will maintain higher drag force with the drag washer not greased. Any drag washer of similar size and thickness will work as a replacement. There are numerous drag washer materials out there to choose from. Again, we would recommend a material that does not require grease. 4) The VS10 dates back to 2001 and uses a 4-pin Spool Inertia Break system. It is a basic centrifugal break system with 5 settings controlled by removing the black block on each of the pins. Removing all blocks is no (zero) breaking. Leaving the blocks on all pins is maximum breaking. The blocks do not come in contact with a break drum; they simply change the spool's inertial properties.

T-Rig: Thanks for your recent post. Unfortunately, Pinnacle Fishing does not have a distributor in Europe, and we are not set up at present to ship to dealers/consumers there. The company does not have plans to do so in the near future. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

Wormdirt: Thanks for the positive feedback on our products. We're not the same company as Pinnacle golf, however. Two totally separate entities. We make fishing tackle only. Our parent company is Silstar Corporation and Pinnacle is the primary brand of the reels/rods we offer. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

MattinOK: Thanks for your recent post. The Extant spinning reels are still available in our current product lineup. Not sure what you can pick up an Extant online for from a private seller, but I can tell you that the MSRP for the Extant Reels range from $44.49 to $49.99 depending upon the specific model. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

Rigman: Sorry to hear that your Slyder reel is not as smooth as you would like it to be. Keep in mind that "smoothness" is relative, and that this reel offers a level of smoothness comparable to competitive reels in its price class. If you believe there is a defect of some kind, however, we suggest that you send your reel in to our customer service department to be checked out under warranty. We recommend that you do not take apart the mechanics of the reel to make repairs yourself, as this would normally void the factory warranty. We will make an exception in your case, however...so, please feel free to send your reel in. For your information, the Slyders bearing locations are as follows: One ball bearings on each side of the spool, a third bearing under the spool tension control knob, a fourth "one-way" bearing underneath the star drag (anti-reverse bearing), another ball bearing on top of this anti-reverse bearing (on the main shaft), and a sixth ball bearing on the inside of the "Finesse Wheel." If you would like to send your reel in for review/repair, please send to: Silstar Corp./Pinnacle Customer Service 3002 Dow Ave., Unit 416 Tustin, CA 92780

Excellent advice all-around. It definitely takes a little time and practice to find the best mag control adjustment. This varies according to the individual angler, skill level, casting style, etc. You are correct in paying attention to the spool tension control as well as the mag setting...many anglers neglect to do so, and it does matter. Of course, an "educated thumb" is even more important. Most of all, don't get frustrated if you experience a little backlash in the early going. No reel, despite some manufacturer's claims, is 100 percent backlash-proof. And keep in mind that even the world's best bass fishermen (I just fished with some B.A.S.S. Elite Series anglers at the California Delta) experience a "professional over-run" every now and then. Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

247bassin': Thanks for the positive feedback. We're glad to hear that you're pleased with the quality and performance of Pinnacle tackle. We strive to deliver smooth, highly functional gear at affordable pricing. Also happy to hear that you recently picked up a Vision Slyder, and that it's serving you well. We've been receiving a lot of praise from consumers on this mid-year introduction. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

Thanks, Wickyman. But, once you see (and fish with) the new TC reels/rods, I think you'll agree that they far surpass Abu's offerings in quality and performance. On a separate note...just saw the note under your photo about being a "new dad." Congrats on that from all of us at Pinnacle. Tight Lines, Pinnacle1

The Rooster: Thanks for your latest post. Most of the existing model baitcasters will be replaced come 2011 with our new Tournament Class reels, which will be nothing short of awesome. FYI, we'll also be coming out with Tournament Class rods, which are equally impressive. The only existing model baitcasters that will remain in the lineup will be the Matrix XLT , Matrix X and Tara models. The recently introduced Vision Slyder will continue on in the lineup as well. Some dealers will continue to have some stock of existing models mentioned for a while, or you can buy them online at the Pinnaclefishing.com website (while inventory lasts). Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

Sorry guys...can't reveal any more about the proprietary construction of the new reels we have in the works. Just know they'll be sleek, super strong and smoooooooth. As far as a new top-of-the-line reel with a flipping switch goes, let's just say you'll be very pleased. Pinnacle1

Rooster: Thanks for your recent post. The handle on our Matrix spinning reel IS reversible for either right or left hand retrieve. Not sure why the shopper thought they weren't. Looks like he returned the reels unnecessarily. Best, Pinnacle1

247Bassin': Pinnacle doesn't offer "super-tuning" reel service. Some independent tackle repair shops and dealers do offer these kind of aftermarket "upgrades." You really don't need to replace the bearings on Pinnacle reels, however, as these are high quality shielded stainless steel bearings that are sized and positioned perfectly for optimum performance. If you replace the existing bearings with bearings that are sized differently, the reel may not perform the way it should. As far as general maintenance and reel "overhauls" are concerned, you can have those services performed for a nominal fee by either of the two authorized Pinnacle Warranty Service Centers listed below: Silstar Corporation of America/Pinnacle Fishing Service and Parts Department 3002 Dow Ave., Unit 416 Tustin, CA 92780 Tel: (888) 547-9998, ext. 106 Southeast Expo Rod & Reel Service 3142 Platt Springs Rd. Springdale, SC 29170 Tel: (803) 794-2221 Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

Prior to joining Pinnacle, I worked for Daiwa. I can tell you that both the Slyder and Megaforce are fine finesse-fishing reels. Both are great for slowly working plastic worms or creature baits slowly along weedlines or over bottom structure. And, both reels also offer a high-speed retrieve option for working faster "reaction" baits. Personally, I find the Slyder's "Finesse Wheel" easier to use than the "bar." I think the motion is more natural, and it seems to allow for greater precision/control. It's also great for picking up slack line. I'd give the Slyder the edge on performance and value. Pinnacle1

Bass-Brat: In your area (OH), the only major retail stores offering our products would be Walmart, but those are mostly our value-priced and mid-range model reels. Cabela's does offer a couple of our products, including the Matrix XLT baitcaster. We're currently seeking to expand our distribution in the Midwest, so please ask your local dealer to stock Pinnacle products. If you want to buy our tackle online, you can find a larger selection of our reels -- including some of our higher-end models online at the walmart.com website. Or, you can always make any desired purchases online directly through the www.PinnacleFishing.com website. Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

LOL...OK, Stasher1, I'll lighten up on the promotional lingo. But, you gotta cut me some slack...I'm a copywriter and outdoor writer as well as an avid angler. Sometimes I get a little carried away with the words, but I truly believe what I say about our reels...great stuff that's priced right. Best, Pinnacle1

Nightmid: Thanks for your recent post. We think Pinnacle's Platinum Plus compares quite favorably with the Abu Black Max and similar models. For the money, the Platinum Plus is hard to beat. It features six high quality stainless steel bearings, a durable yet lightweight reinforced graphite frame and a fully-adjustable advanced magnetic ant-backlash system with 8 magnets. The multi-disc drag system is also extremely smooth, consistent and reliable. We suggest you add a Platinum Plus to your angling arsenal...you won't be disappointed. Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

xyzman: Thanks for your recent inquiry. There are no "ultralight" baitcasters offered within the current Pinnacle lineup. We offer some lighter, smaller low-profile baitcasters, such as the Inertia Finesse, that can accommodate lines as light as 8-pound test, but we don't recommend spooling on anything lighter than that. The thin diameter of monofilament 6-pound and lighter can get caught within the spool/frame tolerances of a baitcaster. If you plan on casting very light panfish-typed jigs on line lighter than 8-pound test, we recommend using a spinning reel instead. Good Fishing! Pinnacle1

CWB: Thanks for your recent post. Agreed, for the money, Pinnacle's Extant Spinning Reels are excellent performers. Glad to learn you're getting good use out of yours. As far as a spare spool for your EX30 is concerned, please contact our parts and service manager, Greg Imlay, at the following e-mail address: customerservice@pinnaclefishing.com. He should be able to assist you. Thanks again for your interest in Pinnacle Fishing Tackle. Regards, Pinnacle1