Looking for ideas on a reel to pair with a daiwa aird X, heavy rod. Planning on making this my jig/topwater/swim bait rod.  Looking for something that can handle all those applications.  Don’t really want to spend any more than $150.  Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Same one I have on my Aird-X heavy - Fuego CT.

46 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

Same one I have on my Aird-X heavy - Fuego CT.

Same one I have on my Fenwick HMX HF- Fuego CT. 

1 hour ago, MN Fisher said:

Same one I have on my Aird-X heavy - Fuego CT.

Gear ratio?

Since mine is my flip/pitch/frog rig, I'm running 8.1:1

 

For jigs/topwaters/swimbaits I'd go with the 7.3:1

22 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

Since mine is my flip/pitch/frog rig, I'm running 8.1:1

So is mine. I can always reel slower lol. 

I don't own any of the current Daiwa reels, but I agree that you should go with a Daiwa.................A Shimano probably wouldn't even fit .  

Daiwa Tatula CT 7:3:1, I like the 2016-19 model, usually run around $90-100.

While the Fuego is a good reel, I'd opt for the Tatula CT 100. A little better built. I have both the Fuego and the 100.

24 minutes ago, Hammer 4 said:

Tatula CT 100. A little better built.

Same frame, same spool, same main gears.

Only thing the Tatula CT has over the Fuego CT is the T-Wing and bearings in the handle knobs...otherwise they're identical reels.

8 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

Same frame, same spool, same main gears.

Only thing the Tatula CT has over the Fuego CT is the T-Wing and bearings in the handle knobs...otherwise they're identical reels.

I like the T-Wing, so in my mind it's a Tiny bit better built...?