Looking to pick up value reel with a workhorse reputation like the Daiwa BG spinning reel. Something from $100 to $125 with a strong drag and a value leader for the manufacturer. Gonna see mixed duty for small striper, catfish maybe casting heavy lures for musky.

Lews have more powerful drag than most but if you’re wanting to stay with Daiwa a Tatula CT can be had for about $100 or I’ll sell you a stronger Tatula 150 that will handle any of that for $150. 

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 or C4

Shimano slx

Lews Custom Slp is $130 at TW now

Lews BB1 or Super Duty

A Shimano Curado DSV. Like the BG its heavy, uses old technology, and will last a lifetime.

Daiwa casting reel a little over your budget Daiwa 200 meets your needs.

Tom

Daiwa 150/200.  2013 platforms that are solid and work.  

On 3/29/2023 at 9:38 PM, wasabi_VA said:

Looking to pick up value reel with a workhorse reputation like the Daiwa BG spinning reel. Something from $100 to $125 with a strong drag and a value leader for the manufacturer. Gonna see mixed duty for small striper, catfish maybe casting heavy lures for musky.

 

The Zillion series, even more so the older ones, Tatula Type R, Tatula CT SV, smaller Lexas...

I'm obsessed with the Tatula reels from Daiwa. Are they the best? No. But the braking system is great for the money and they're just great workhorse reels. Easy to clean, easy to customize. Just great all around reels.

You can get a Fuego CT in that price range.