I would just get the Shimano slx xt. It’s a little over 115 but it’s the best budget reel you’re gonna get.

14 hours ago, wvhunt said:

I missed out on the $100 Tatula CT's, so I was looking at the Pro Qualifier to replace another old inexpensive reel. So far I haven't found a lot of reviews (outside of Cabelas/Bass Pro) on these.

Never have had a problem with mine.

Good Fishing

On 2/6/2026 at 8:26 PM, zell_pop1 said:

https://www.basspro.com/p/quantum-pt-smoke-s3-baitcast-reel

Older reel but $100 when it was originally $180. The Fuego is probably just as old though.

I actually have that reel and enjoy it. Find it's not quite as smooth when casting as my Lews or Daiwa, but doesn't affect performance. But probably won't get it since I'm looking for something new

On 1/30/2026 at 10:39 PM, MN Fisher said:

Hasn't happened to me...long as you fully engage the locking mechanism, it's solid.

How do you take the side plate off this thing? I've got the switch pushed to unlock and it doesn't budge when I try twisting the plate off

Nvm I figured it out. I guess the plate just pops off and doesn't twist like other baitcaster I've used

3 hours ago, Speedy Turtle said:

I guess the plate just pops off and doesn't twist like other baitcaster I've used

Nope. After you loosen the screw, the plate gets twisted downward. Reverse that to reinstall, then lightly tighten up the screw.