I recently watched a video by a certain tackle retailer on youtube comparing the Exist to the Stella. They mentioned in this video that the latest Cross Carbon drag system in Stella behaves strangely, whereby the drag never seems to behave in practice the same way that it feels when you just pull line.

 

I've been having that experience with my Vanford. It's a bit confusing. 

 

I haven't spent enough time with the real to know if this is something I'll just get used to over time. What has been your experience?

 

What is your experience with Daiwa's ATD? I'm considering another spinning reel at the moment and would appreciate some feedback.

 

Thanks

I have both Shimano and Daiwa spinning reels and I haven’t had a problem with either drag system. The drag on my Tatulas have been really smooth

I haven't had any drag issues with either of my Shimano or Diawa reels. I am also not using either the Stella or Exist.

FM

17 minutes ago, Fishingmickey said:

I haven't had any drag issues with either of my Shimano or Diawa reels. I am also not using either the Stella or Exist.

FM

I'm not specifically asking about Stella or Exist per say, just the drag tech in generally that is shared between reels.

 

Personally I can't say I've had any issues with the Cross Carbon drag, it just behaves differently than what I've had in the past. I don't have enough time or fish catches on the reel to make any judgements.

 

I'm just curious about what people's experiences are. especially people with no skin in the game.

1 hour ago, Fishingmickey said:

I haven't had any drag issues with either of my Shimano or Diawa reels. I am also not using either the Stella or Exist.

FM

safe to say they are equal in your eyes?

Can't say I've ever lost a fish due to a drag issue that wasn't my fault with a spinning reel. 

(Stradics, Kages, Ballistics, Sedonas, BG's)

1 hour ago, jejenkyns said:

safe to say they are equal in your eyes?

Honestly, I have/had been a Shimano fan boy for 30+ years.  But I've got to say when it comes to spinning reels I think Diawa makes a nicer reel. I like the slightly thicker bails on the Diawa spinning reels.  I am running on spinning, Shimano Exsence, Integra, Stradic and a Vanford.  They all perform great.  In Diawa, I have Caldia, Esmeraldas LT and a Freams.  No issues with them either.  I don't think you can go wrong either way.  With as well as they perform, I see no need to drop the extra coin to try a Stella or a Exist.

FM   

The stradic FL I had was smooth, but tighten up fast when adjusting the knob. Super solid and smooth reel. 

 

The Tatula LT is smooth and has a much slower adjustment knob which I like for finesse fishing. Super smooth and lightweight.