The BPS Cabin Fever Sale flyer came today. And in it, it has the RCX purple reel on sale for $79.94. Is this the same reel as the RCX blue BC reel? And I think it may be a close out sale too.

The blue reel was the "Rick Clunn" which was discontinued at the end of 2009. The purple "RCX" replaced it, but other than the name and the color, they were always assumed to be the same reel. Same weight, bearing count, models, and other features.

The RCX reels probably are being clearanced since the new BPS "Carbon Black" looks like the same basic reel with some upgrades - 2 more bearings (probably in the handles but I don't know for sure), a carbon fiber handle, click-adjustable cast control knob, and an upgraded drag (14lb).

I have 2 of the 2009 RC reels - got them on clearance for $71. They're a good reel, but a bit heavy with a catalog weight of 9.45oz.

I have 2 of the older blue rick clunn reels, I think the 07 or 08 models. I have nothing but good things to say about them! If the new ones are just an upgraded version then I would think they would be an excellent reel. I also bought both of mine on year end clearance, think I paid about the same Goose did for them. Well worth the money in my opinion. Compared to the Extremes, they are a little bit smoother and seem to cast just a tad better. Both reels are excellent for their price range. My problem is that I bought a Revo Winch last year and now I'm addicted to the revos!

I have one of the purple RCX reels and like it really well. Mine is the 7.1 version and I use it for fishing plastics  and buzzbaits. It casts really well and a very solid feeling reel. I've only had it since late summer so I can't say much about it's durability. A friend of mine has a few of the older blue ones and loves them.

Personally, I'd pass on either one in favor of this one...

http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Pro-Qualifier-Tournament-Baitcast-Reel/product/10224165/-1673055

It appears to be built on the Carbonlite platform, and is over 2 oz lighter than the Rick Clunn reels. I've handled them in the store and they're smooth and compact. If they offered them in a 7.1:1, I'd own one...but I have no use for a 6.4:1 baitcaster right now.

Personally, I'd pass on either one in favor of this one...

http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Pro-Qualifier-Tournament-Baitcast-Reel/product/10224165/-1673055

It appears to be built on the Carbonlite platform, and is over 2 oz lighter than the Rick Clunn reels. I've handled them in the store and they're smooth and compact. If they offered them in a 7.1:1, I'd own one...but I have no use for a 6.4:1 baitcaster right now.

Good grief - I need to spend more time on the BPS web site - I thought the Tournament PQs were store-only specials and didn't know they were on the web site...

I actually found them by accident the other day. If you narrow your search to BPS baitcasters, it won't come up. You have to search though all of the baitcasters.

I actually found them by accident the other day. If you narrow your search to BPS baitcasters, it won't come up. You have to search though all of the baitcasters.

You can find them with a search on "Pro Qualifier" as well.

Anyone considering a PQ should give these a look for sure - good price right now and 1.5 oz lighter than the regular PQ. Only downside is the one gear ratio - but it's a versatile ratio.

I will have to take a look at the PQ now. I have a blue RC BC reel and I like it alot. I was thinking of buying the purple one but I will give the PQ a look first!

Personally, I'd pass on either one in favor of this one...

http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Pro-Qualifier-Tournament-Baitcast-Reel/product/10224165/-1673055

It appears to be built on the Carbonlite platform, and is over 2 oz lighter than the Rick Clunn reels. I've handled them in the store and they're smooth and compact. If they offered them in a 7.1:1, I'd own one...but I have no use for a 6.4:1 baitcaster right now.

I have both the RC reel and the tournament edition PQ and although both reels are good the TEPQ really is a step or two ahead of the RC reel.