Can't believe it, but after thoughrough research I laid down my hard earned money on a Curado E5 for crankbaits.  I purchased this one due to the massive line capacity of the Winch, I've had problems with Abu's and lighter weight baits.  The smallest crank I throw is 5/16 ounce, and can throw it on most of my reels, but the Abu's won't do it efficiently.  The Garcia would throw it but not far and it took a lot of practice to become proficient.  If this Curado doesn't do the job, I'm calling Kent, Burley and the rest of the possee.  lol. 

Good choice! If only the E5 was available in a lefty.  :

In case you haven't read this:

http://www.tackletour.com/review2010lowspeedfinal.html

excellent choice for a crankbait reel.  I promise you won't be disappointed by it.  It's my go to crankbait reel right now. 

Congrats on your first (but not last) Shimano! I would've never dropped the cash on one, my first one was a gift. I own 3 now

I only have 1 now (Citica D) since I try to buy everything on sale, but I plan to add a Curado by the end of summer, when I will hopefully have enough money. Fishing's an addiction. :-/

I only have 1 now (Citica D) since I try to buy everything on sale, but I plan to add a Curado by the end of summer, when I will hopefully have enough money. Fishing's an addiction. :-/

fishing is not an addiction, it's just a hobby.  ;D

njbasser. you can buy curados any time on ebay for around 145 bucks shipped. New 2010 models.

Does buying a curado on ebay affect getting warranty work done if necessary..?

retiredbosn ,

I've got a couple of each. I haven't ever tried to throw super light cranks with my Winch's so can't comment on your problem with that. I use the two Winch reels I have on my 7.3ft and 7.6ft crankbaits rods that I use for deep divers. My two E5's are used on  6.6ft and 7.0ft rods used for small/med cranks, lipless and jerkbaits. This system has worked out great for me.

You'll love your new E5! Great reel!!!

Does buying a curado on ebay affect getting warranty work done if necessary..?

Nope

Got one about a month ago and it came with a one year warranty which is standard anywhere u buy it

i just got my 200E7 off ebay and it had a full warranty, just make sure the seller is certified to sell shimano by shimano.