I'm going to get a new reel pretty soon. I've already started a couple threads about this but I've just now started to consider the caius. I had never been big on Shimano (only used older models or the cheaper models) until recently when someone gave me a Shimano Symetre 4000 fh while on vacation. I don't want to go into details but if Dillon or Max are reading this I want them to know how much that meant to me. I've been looking at the silver max because it has 5 more pounds of drag, but it's not a deal breaker. I don't ever even use 10 pounds of drag.

DRAG is better when you need to punch out that bass from all that crap!  DRAG wins!

Stay away from the Silver max IMO. I just bought one a few weeks ago for an extra rob I had laying around. First cast on it and the line guide broke off. Come to think of it, all my Abu reels have some weird finicky problem... have a $200 revoSTX that isn't even 3 months old and when I cast any type of weight on it, it makes the most terrible squelching noise. When it comes to spinning gear, I've always strictly used Shimano and never had a ANY problems. Think it's time for me to start looking into Shimano casting gear as well.

What's your budget?

If I had to choose either, I would save my money and get something better. I had nothing but trouble with my silver max. Can't comment on the Caius, but its sold at Walmart and they never sell.

I have the Abu as well. Not a fan. Bought a Lews and love it.

I have the Abu as well. Not a fan. Bought a Lews and love it.

 

See - I was thinking just yesterday how I've heard all this talk about Lews reels. I want to try one! Which model do you have?

Can you hold off till Bass Pro has the Pro Qualifiers on sale for $79 again? They're normally $99, and even at that price they're a great deal. They are smooth, solid, and have a dual breaking system for great control. Lots of good posts about them on the forum here. If u can't wait or stretch your budget you might check out the Extreme, it's a little cheaper with a less adjustable dual breaking system. But I've see a few good posts on it. Keep an eye on the flea market too I think someone had some used PQs up there awhile back.

Oh and fwiw the Bass Pro PQs come out of the same manufacturer as the Abus just to different specs.

Ok. I'm surprised that no one has any experience with the caius.

See - I was thinking just yesterday how I've heard all this talk about Lews reels. I want to try one! Which model do you have?

Tournament Pro Speed Spool. So smooth, casts great and its really light. Looking to get another one now.

What's your budget?

Only $75. I know most of these reels aren't any good around this price, but it's all I can afford.

If you can shell out ten dollars you get the pro max, I'm really happy with mine. Its held up good, its smooth, plus it casts great. The drag is more than solid, I use mine for froging, and its held up great. I would recommend looking into it.

Christian

If you can shell out ten dollars you get the pro max, I'm really happy with mine. Its held up good, its smooth, plus it casts great. The drag is more than solid, I use mine for froging, and its held up great. I would recommend looking into it.

Christian

I was really considering it but I don't like the faster retrieve for what I plan to use it for (3/16-1/4 T-Rigs/Weightless Flukes/Senkos)

I think I mat get an orra sx combo and upgrade the rod later.

Why not an aluminium framed reel?