A few week ago I answered another post saying I was going to buy a Ardent reel  to try out and see if it was on par with my Shimano.   I have purchase a Ardent 2006 SX baitcaster.  First impression are good.  10 stainless bearings,   6 pin Centrifugal adjustable brake,   weight 8.7 oz,   6 to 1 ratio,  I pices magnesium side plate,   1 Piece Magnesium Frame.    Low profile,  3 year warrenty,  6 .0 to 1 radio,  100% made in U.S.A,  Instant continous anti-reverse.   Spool capacity 120 yards of 12 lbs.

The only difference between the 06 and 07 is the side plate.  On the 07 it release like a Shimano.  On the 06 you need a allen wrench. which is supplied.  Which is not a big deal with me for once I set the pins  I don't change them.   Also the side plate will not come completely off Like it does on some reels so you cannot drop it overboard.

    I match this up with a Loomis CBR 906 Rod in Med Hvy weight.   Loaded with Sunline Defioer line.  On the lake the reel performed flawless right out of the box.   The 6 pin Centrifugal adjustable brake were even set correct for me.   It seem to be a little smaller than my Shimano and to be homest it fit my hand a little better.  For the way I plan on using this set up the lower gear ratio will not be a problem either.   The price for a 07 is in line with either of the other two brands.   After several hours on the lake with the reel the only thing that remained to be seen is how well it stands up to use.  Only time will tell.   IMO Daiwa and Shimano had better look out.  

By the way we caught some fish with it.

 

Well look at you!  Steppin' out...

This is a very interesting and detailed initial report. I for one will be very interested in your follow-up.

Quote "I for one will be very interested in your follow-up.  "

Me too. I've had me eye on one of those. I don't really need any more reels, but I've been looking at that one and the Revo for a while now.

Cheers,

GK

Great report Bud, I too, will be curious to hear how it fishes through the season.

Ronnie

Great info.  It's nice to hear about an American product in a line that is dominated by items from over seas.