On 6/3/2019 at 4:20 PM, Brendan Roll said:

I recently bought my dad a Shimano Sedona in size 1000 and he absolutely loves it. It costs $69 at Cabela's but I am sure you can find it for cheaper at different places or just find a coupon. I have fished with him when he uses it and can I say, it does cast a mile. He is not much of a pro at all, more of a beginner than anything, and he can still make on target casts with it. Although, I don't know how well braid would work because he is using mono. Overall great real though.

 

Hope you find your ideal reel!

~Brendan

I have also heard from some good buddy's that the president line reels is fantastic. The president is just $49.99 which I heard completely excels in the water. The President XT sells for $79.99. The XT is lighter and looks a lot cooler. I'm sure it has more perks over the regular president but I do not know them. They are both very solid reels.

 

Good Luck

~Brendan

XT has a faster gear ratio and sealed drag.  I paid around $60 for my XT's and supremes.  just have to watch for deals

I had a Stadic and a Saros stolen off my boat in April. I've only replaced one so far with a Sahara. So far I've been pleased with it.

On 6/3/2019 at 5:59 PM, WRB said:

Over 50 year period I have owned 3 spinning reel brands and models and they all still work good but retired the 1st 2. 

Zebco Cardinal 4 for 20 years, retired.

Daiwa TD SS1300 for 10 years, retired.

Shimano Stratic 1000 & 2500 sizes for 20 years, currently still using.

My point is good quality spinning reels don't wear out with minimum maintence. Buy the best quality you can afford. Daiwa and Shimano both make excellent spinning reels within your budget.

Tom

 

My older Shimano spinning reels still work well, but the models I have are equipped with the quick fire trigger and it drives me absolutely crazy. 

 

I have certainly considered the Ci4+ but much like my casting reels, that will surely take me to the point of no return!

In your price range I have used and been pleased with the Shimano Sahara, Nasci, and Daiwa Revros LT.  I didn't care for the Tatula or Ballistic but that was just me.  If you like to backreel then Daiwa is a better reel for you as the newer Shimano reels dropped this feature.

Thanks @Randy Price I picked up a Sedona during one of the TW sales and I'm pleased with it.  My fault I forgot to post that I had made a purchase but I appreciate the input!

16 hours ago, rtwvumtneer6 said:

Thanks @Randy Price I picked up a Sedona during one of the TW sales and I'm pleased with it.  My fault I forgot to post that I had made a purchase but I appreciate the input!

@rtwvumtneer6, thanks.  I'm sure you will be happy with it.  I have never had a bad experience with any Shimano reel.