Ordered a Fenwick Techna AV 7' MH rod tonight. Had pretty much settled on getting a new (2009) Revo STX for it. However, if I hurry, I can get a new Shimano 201DHSV for the same price. Would absolutely love to get both, but I am pushing my luck getting one considering the fishing equipment I've purchased the past month!

All I know about the reels is what I've read online. Sure could use a little help deciding. Am leaning towards the Shimano even tho it is an older reel, has less bearings, and the drag isn't as strong. What do you guys (and gals) think? Remember both are NIB.

Edit: I have a new Fuego that I really like. There is a NIB one for about $6 more. Only reason I am considering the other 2 is because of their stronger drags. Would it be better to have 2 of the same model reels?

Why not a Curado E7 or E5 ?

Probably a silly question, but are you left handed? A 201DHSV would be a left handed reel.

Sometimes people who have never owned Shimano reels don't understand their model numbers...

go with the stx ........

Heres my take. I love Shimanos I think they are the easiest most forgiving baitcasters to use and solid as a rock!! That being said I got rid of my Curado 200d cause its quite large and heavy. I did have an STX once and did like it alot but as most will tell you they are very finicky to dial in just right and I had much more overruns with that than any other reel I have ever used, but when you did dial it in its performance was second to none!! I would suggest if you can find another Fuego for about the same price to just get that as you already have one and are happy with it. Otherwise I might look for a newer Curado E series or even the Citica E as both are much smaller than the previous D series. If you have your heart set on a D get the 100d either curado or citica, much smaller profile and lighter

I own 2 Curado D's which I use for flipping & jig fishing....they are on the heavy side.  I like the sturdier feel to these reels for that application...just my preference.  I also own 2 Revo STX's...nice & lightweight.  Personally I would go with the STX over the D series Curado.  Just picked up an E series Curado this year but have not used it yet.  Reel is lightweight and feels great.  Only time on the water will tell.  Good luck in whatever you choose.

I'm right handed, but grew up on spinning rods, so I am use to cranking with the left hand. Plus I can't understand why you would want to throw with your right arm and then have to switch hands before reeling. : BUT I have an Alphas reel coming, and it's a righty. Some things you have to live with. I'm fairly ambidextrous. I do understand the model numbers. Thanks.

Hope to one day have both an E5 and E7...along with several other makes and models. ;D ;D

I decided to get the Fuego at $6.50 more than the other 2 reels. Was already sold. Should have acted on it last night. >

I've read both good and bad about the STX. One poster said internals were wearing after one season of fishing. Some mention it is harder to cast without backlashes while others have mentioned how easy it is to cast. Seems that it is finicky on being set up, but once set right is as good as any.

I'm not too sure that the 200DHSV weight would bother me. Especially if it compares as well to today's reels as it did to the reels of 4-5 years ago. I'm use to older equipment. Weight of today's equipment is much lighter than my old stuff. If you disregard the difference in the weight of the reels, would the 201DHSV be considered equal to the quality of the STX-L? I know the drag pressure is less on the Shimano.

I'm still undecided, but am leaning towards another Fuego L even tho the drag isn't as strong as what I am looking for. I really like this reel. Plus it would give me a base-line with which to judge the fine work Nitroman did in tuning my first one. ;D