GreyMan559

I decided on 15hp because that's what my 12' Valco is rated for. I had thought about going with a 20 but wasn't sure if I could get in trouble for it.

Title pretty much says it all. I'm looking to buy a new 15hp outboard and wondering which would be the best if price is the same? I decided to go with Mercury because that's what most of the shops in my area rep. Still not sure if I want pull or electric start though.

Just hoping to revive this thread because I'm also interested to hear from anyone with experience with this exact model.

Hahaha right! I couldn't help myself. I chose now over later. $60 off the current model was too good to pass.

Awesome! Glad there's still hope. Hopefully a Vanford/Ci4 reel!

To the guys who follow these events. Do you think we'll see any new reels from Shimano that we don't know about, or would there have already been rumors?

Thanks everyone, I actually just got back from taking it back. I had them open another box to see if it had the same issue. It wasn't as bad but still noticable. So I decide to wait for the next batch to come around since I don't need it right away.

I just picked up a new Vanford 2500. It's my first new reel in probably 15 years and I'm not sure if I've just built up my expectations too high or if there's actually something wrong. Besides not being as quiet as I'd like, my main concern is the play in the handle. Or more accurately, in the opinion gear it screws into. There's a little play left to right (in n out of the reel) and backward/forward reeling play. Is this normal, or could it lead to bigger problems down the road? Just curious if other Vanford owners have this same issue.

What's your budget?

Thanks everyone for all your input. Hook Up had 20% off gift cards and 20% off used rods. So I basically got a "like new" Addermine for $290! Hopefully I don't regret sacrificing the Megabass warranty.

Even though it's out of my budget, I'm curious which Destroyer you prefer for drop shot. I didn't see a whip snake in that line. So wasn't sure if you meant a different model, or if they discontinued it in the Destroyer line.

Thank you! Any opinions on the Vanford vs Stradic FM?

Hi all, I'm looking for some help on my next rod & reel combo. As the title states, I'm looking at the Orochi (Whipsnake or Shakyhead) or the Expride. Not sure which Expride to get if I go this route. I'm guessing a ML. Also, I'm not sure if the light weight of Vanford is really worth it over the robustness of the Stradic FM. Any advise and knowledge you could share would be appreciated! Fishing info: Style - Focusing on drop shot, but will probably use for other finesse styles also. Large Mouth & Spots From a boat Usually fishing 30 - 40' & shallower