The Top 2 Ultralight Fishing Reels Available Today

Ultralight fishing reels are, as the name would already imply, lightweight fishing reel options that don’t scrimp on their performance values and factors.

As such, ultralight anglers tend to scrutinize on the inherent performance values in ultralight fishing reels, considering the particulars and quirks the practice requires from them.

For those in search of the best of ultralight fishing reel options available in the market today, here are the top two reels, well received and well regarded by ultralight fishers from different walks of life.

Abu Garcia’s SORON STX
Abu Garcia’s SORON STX

Weighing 8.2 ounces and designed to accommodate 140 (4 lb) lines, the SORON STX is one of the newest additions to the Abu Garcia fishing gear and equipment lineup.

But just because it’s new doesn’t mean that Abu Garcia has toned down on its production, maintaining the aspects which had made it one of the world’s best purveyors of fishing equipment and gear in the SORON STX.

With 11 bearings and a retrieve ratio rated at 5.1:1, the SORON STX is also designed with an anti-corrosion alloy, deeming it as both, a functional and weather-worthy ultralight fishing reel that easily accommodates an ultralight fisher’s needs and wants.

Quantum’s Catalyst CT10PTI

Built with an incredibly thin-profile aluminum body, the Catalyst CT10PTI weighs 8.45 ounces, and can easily hold 125 yards (4 lb) of line.

With a rated retrieve ratio of 5.33:1, the reel features 8 bearings, along with a magnetic clutch. With a smooth performance factor, the Catalyst CT10PTI also comes with a featured repair guarantee from Quantum, making its overall purchase a win-win option for ultralight fishers and anglers.

The Fishing Camp Board Game by Education Outdoors

A cursory look at the times would say a lot about how board games have somewhat lost their luster, with more and more followers of digital or app versions of board games growing in number.

However, just because apps and games for iPads and iPhones are gaining traction as the mainstay mode of gaming and wholesome fun doesn’t mean that real-deal board games are no longer being made.

The Fishing Camp Board Game by Education Outdoors
The Fishing Camp Board Game by Education Outdoors would be one solid example.

The Fishing Camp, at a glance

As a board game, Fishing Camp is geared as a trivia board game, one which tests players on how well they know fishing and their fishes.

Designed to be played by up to eight players, the game’s trivia aspect is categorized in four levels, with its first level questions easy to solve by anyone familiar with the basics involved in fishing. Level four Fishing Camp questions are noted to be challenging, even testing the working knowledge of the more experienced fisher, making it more than a trivial fishing-centered trivia board game.

As a board game, Fishing Camp boasts a wholesome family fun factor, along with an educational aspect that is sure to be readily appreciated by avid fishers who have children.

Playable for children as young as four years old, the game is quite engaging in its overall value as a board game, one that stands out in a time when digital games are preferred by the younger generation of fishers/gamers.

Megabass of America’s Orochi XX

Also known as the Orochi Double-X, Megabass of America rolled out a new impressive rod series early this year, one which was built with the American tournament angler’s needs from a rod kept in mind.
Megabass Orochi XX
Essentially a new series crafted by the newly formed Megabass of America, the Orochi XX lives up to the Megabass brand’s reputation for fine-crafted rods, positioned in maintaining its “luxury rod” standing, yet priced affordably enough to meet with the budgetary considerations of the average everyday bass fisher.

Showcasing signature rods designed with the input of pros like Luke Clausen and Aaron Martens, the series main features takes shape in its low-resin 40-ton graphite construction, matched with a vertical axis that’s coupled with a 2-axis cross platform layer.

The inputs of pros Clausen and Martens yields to the rod series’ tailored-fit for American style bass tournament fishing standards, just as it leverages on Megabass’ premium rated technologies and givens.

With the series’ rods priced to retail no more than $300, the Orochi XX also features the Megabass patented ITO Headlock reel seat system, matched with an ergonomic handling feature in the implementation of composite cork buttcaps.

Essentially borne from two combined Megabass entities – Megabass Japan and Megabass USA – Megabass of America’s Orochi XX takes bass fishing rod standards a notch higher, not liable to render fishers broke in simply getting the best or bass fishing rods available in the market today.

Long story short, those who’ve longed to own a Megabass rod but have been thwarted with budgetary constraints can now have their dream Megabass rod, in the Orochi XX.

Daiwa’s reasonably priced Lexa 100HL

As a brand, Daiwa has built a reputation for churning out superior reels, a reputation that is backed by the fact that Daiwa-branded reels are superb in their overall dynamic as essential fishing gear options.

However, though Daiwa reels are inherently superior, their price tags tend to lead many in opting for other less costing alternatives.
Daiwa Lexa 100HL
Fortunately, Daiwa’s reasonably priced Lexa 100HL is now up and about, standing out in its overall value as an impressive and affordable reel.

The Lexa 100 by Daiwa, at a glance

Weighing 8.2 ounces and designed with a 7 + 1 bearing convention, the Lexa 100 boasts a retrieve ratio of 6.3:1, just as variants with a retrieve ratio of 7.1:1 and 4.9:1 are available.

With a line capacity of 14/120: 16/100, the reel boasts a maximum drag rating of 6.9 lbs, all housed in a seamless minimalist design aesthetic that does wonders not only in its out-in-the-field performance, but also in the look and feel department.

Superb build and construction stands to be one of the best highlights of the Lexa 100, one which Daiwa doesn’t scrimp on. With smooth angular facets that are finished with a metallic grey tone, the reel certainly looks refined, a feature that is matched by a versatile performance point.

From braided lines to fluorocarbon lines, the reel can easily accommodate different fishing trips and catch targets, making it a worthy entry into any fisher’s gear inventory.

Matched by its affordable price point, the Lexa 100 by Daiwa certainly comes as an attractive option for those on the lookout for quality reels.

The Flex N’ Go Satchel – The affordable gear storage option for fishers

Fishers and anglers in search for best in value fishing gear and equipment will find Plano’s Flex N’ Go Satchel to be a welcome addition to their gear, given the extended storage benefits the product boasts.

Developed by Plano, the Flex N’ Go Satchel essentially takes after the brand’s StowAway storage box’s overall form and function, working on the base principles which had put Plano on the map.
Flex N’ Go Satchel
Bearing a 15” x 11.8” x 4.4” dimension set, the Flex N’ Go is made with plastic and polypropylene components, available in a HydroFlo (blue/yellow) color/pattern variation that fits with the tastes and needs of its users.

As a hard case, the Flex N’ Go essentially resolves gear organization and portability concerns fishers and anglers tend to encounter when doing what they love, allowing them to focus on fishing and not think too much about keeping their gear organized.

Designed with a retractable handle, carrying the Flex N’ Go Satchel is not all that difficult to accomplish, with its brief case-like form versatile in its overall storage and carrying aspects.

Its overall design also makes the process of staking two or more Flex N’ Got Satchel cases easy, just as they are secure and not liable to simply be unhinged when put in the trunk.

While the design aspects of the Flex N’ Go Satchel can be described as “basic”, its basic aspects makes it perfect for a fishers’ needs who are bound to have other gear options.

Simply put, Plano’s Flex N’ Go Satchel, with its basic form and impressive gear organization capacities, is the perfect best in value storage gear option for on the go fishers.

ABT’s X-2 Square Bill – Made for Bass Fishing

While the options in crankbaits are quite diverse, there are a number of impressive lures built by particular brands which stand out.

From crankbaits that are versatile in their overall appeal, to lures which are flexible in accommodating a fisher’s particular fishing style, the search for impressive lure options tends to be constantly at the top of a fisher’s mind.
ABT’s X-2 Square Bill
For fishers in search of impressive versatile-factor lures, the ABT X-2 Square Bill is one option worth looking into.

ABT’s X-2 Square Bill

Measuring 2.5 inches in size and weighing 7/16th of an ounce, ABT’s X-2 Square Bill can be used as a floating or suspending crankbait, with a catch-appealing form factor that does wonders in living up to fishing expectations.

Available in 7 body color options, the X-2 Square Bill can be rigged with #4 VMC Hooks, allowing for a more “controlled” fishing-use option for fishers. Defined by a lipless and shallow diving capacity, the X-2 Square Bill can easily grab the attention of catches, even when bass catches aren’t biting.

Generally clean and attractive in its overall design, the X-2 Square Bill’s somewhat minimalist aesthetics may not exactly shine when it is out of the water, but as the testimonies of countless fishers would attest, its use is quite effective and efficient.

Not too earnest in how loud its rattle is, the X-2 Square Bill takes a more “low key” path in being audible, something which other lures made by other brands tend to overdo. In utilizing #4 VMC hooks, fishers are empowered with a hook set that isn’t too small or too weak to deal with the stresses smaller hook variants are put on.

Casting isn’t all that an issue with the X-2 Square Bill, with its lightweight form not entirely inhibiting a fisher’s casting style or technique.

All in all, the X-2 Square Bill by ABT simply stands out in showcasing a distinct fishing experience for its users.

The 832 braided line by Sufix

Experienced fishers are quite familiar with Sufix’s 832 braided line series, a phenomenal fishing line option which has managed to stand out amidst a highly competitive and engaging industry.

Combining the Gore Fiber and Dyneema fibers in its construction, the line series continues to be among the most top rated braids out in the market today, proving itself as a worthy addition to any fisher’s tackle box inventory.

The 832 braided line by Sufix

Available in 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 65 line weight standards, the Sufix’s 832 Braid comes in 6 color variations, sold in a variety of line lengths. Its Lo-Vis Green (40lbs/150yds) standard is quite well regarded by countless fishing pros, with its increased abrasion resistance factors and its capacity for resisting sudden breakages.

As a braided line option, Sufix’s 832 is known for its versatile performance in high impact situations and scenarios, with its Gore Fiber factors noted to boast lubricant-like and cushion-rooted features into its overall performance.

Essentially an eight strand braid line, the 832 initially made its debut during ICAST 2010, with its impressive performance and form factors still not losing its luster until today.

While it isn’t the only fishing gear option that is still earning the nods of the most discerning fishers since its debut, it’s the overall ready-availability of the series, along with its impressive performance factors, that makes it shine as one of the best braided line options out in the market today.

For fishers and anglers who feel that their current braids could use some updating, give Sufix’s 832 Braid a go. It, surely, won’t let you down.

SuperTech’s Trailer Valet

While it can be argued that the purchase of watercraft is a must-have for fishers, it is no secret that sourcing impeccable watercraft accessories and gear can be quite frustrating for watercraft owners.

However, just because snags in the search for quality watercraft accessories are met doesn’t mean that there are no quality options out there.
SuperTech’s Trailer Valet
SuperTech’s Trailer Valet would be one such exception.

The Trailer Valet by SuperTech

Developed to simplify the actual storing and “unveiling” procedures and processes involved in the use of watercraft, SuperTech’s Trailer Valet is a noteworthy must have watercraft accessory for fishers.

Easily resolving ordeals which include maneuvering boats through tight spaces, the device is built with steel components, with a distinct clean hammered powder coated finish.

With a lifting range of 11 inches, the Trailer Valet is quite capable of handling a diverse range of for-fishing watercraft, with a minimum height capacity of 12.5 inches, maximum of 23.5 inches. Weight a total of 38 lbs, the watercraft accessory is quite light for its purpose and intent, sure to be of value to fishers with their own fishing boats.

Using a watercraft as part of one’s fishing activities can’t exactly be defined as the sure fire way to attain fishing ideals and catch yields, just as preferring to use a particular type of rod and reel combo is not an assurance that fishing expectations will be easily met.

However, for fishers who are solely into the fishing practice for the fun and not necessarily for catching bulk yields, having a watercraft handy helps pave the way for unique fishing trips.

The Trailer Valet by SuperTech, makes the overall storage of watercraft quick and easy.

Bowfishing – Compound VS Recurve Bows

Experienced bowfishers are known to talk about the upsides and downsides of either using compound or recurve bows for bowfishing.

Given that the practice itself involves the use of specialized archery equipment designed for the adaptable or functional utilization of bows as a means of hitting and reeling in catches from a distance, the respective bowfishing equipment types in compound and recurve bows stands to be a relevant point which bowfishers often talk about.
Bowfishing Compound VS Recurve Bows
Below is a quick take on the advantages and disadvantages in using compound or recurve bows for bowfishing excursions and trips.

Compound VS Recurve bows for Bowfishing

Recurve bows, between their use and the use compound bows, are generally viewed as the lighter option type, a form factor which those who aren’t keen on bringing heavy equipment should take note of.

But while weight does come as an important form factor for any type of fishing equipment and gear, the extra weight found in compound bows are also viewed by certain bowfishers as part of its overall functionality as bowfishing equipment.

Bowfisher circles are known to discuss about the faster shooting capacities of recurve bows, which is arguably considered to be the faster and easier to use option between the two types of bows.

However, a number of experienced bowfishers would also note that shooting speed and the type of bow being used for a bowfishing excursion also share that speed factors are not necessarily determined by the type of bow one uses, but rather on how comfortable one is in using a particular type of bow.

In determining which is better between the two, the most relevant answer is defined by a bowfisher’s personal preference, with his or her particulars heavily involved in picking out which of the two is best.

Both compound and recurve bows have their upsides and downsides after all, and the duty in filtering through those stands as something which users have to weigh on their own, based on which of the two works best for them.

Bowfishing – Types of Reels

Just as there are different types of bows used in bowfishing, there are different types of reels designed for its practice, with professional and amateur bowfishers having their share of opted bowfishing reel types.

With the basic premise of using a bow and arrow as a means of bagging catches, bowfishing also entails the use of lines hooked to arrows as a means of retrieving hit targets, with this bowfishing premise taken after the reel and line dynamic in traditional fishing.

Bowfishing – Types of Reels

Below is a quick take on the three primary types of bowfishing reels, reels which are used by countless bowfishers from different walks of life.

Spincast Bowfishing Reels – Spincast Bowfishing reels are generally designed to fit with different equipment types, bows included.

Generally, Spincast Bowfishing Reels come with configurable performance settings, allowing bowfishers the option of adjusting drag for quick retrieval tactics.

The use of Spincast Bowfishing Reels is quite popular, considering the overall configurable nature of the Spincast Bowfishing Reel as a bowfishing equipment type.

General Retriever-Type Reels – Designed to accommodate larger sized lines, general retriever-type reels often come with zero drag features, primed as a quick solution for bowfishers who aren’t keen on line-inclined tactics.

Considered to be the top bowfishing reel type of choice, general retriever-type reels are designed to be rigged with different types of hunter’s bows, and are generally found available in different sporting goods venues which highlight bowfishing equipment and gear.

Hand Wrap Reels – Considered to be the bowfishing beginner’s reel of choice, given the bowfishing reel type’s economical aspects.

Simple and straightforward in its bowfishing application and implementation, those who are still testing their bowfishing mettles are advised to opt for hand wrap reels as their “training reels” for bowfishing trips.