Choosing the best Lew’s reel involves evaluating gear ratios, line capacity, and drag systems to match your target species and fishing style. Freshwater anglers prioritize lightweight designs like the Lew’s Speed Spool, while saltwater enthusiasts need corrosion-resistant models such as the Lew’s Custom Pro. Always pair the reel with a rod of matching power and action for optimal performance.
Fiberglass vs. Graphite Fishing Rods: Key Differences and Considerations
What Are the Key Features of Lew’s Reels?
Lew’s reels feature precision-machined aluminum frames, dual braking systems, and high-speed gear ratios (7.5:1+) for rapid retrieval. Models like the Tournament Pro include hybrid ceramic bearings for smoother casts, while saltwater-specific designs use sealed drags to resist corrosion. The brand’s “Speed Spool” technology reduces startup inertia, making them ideal for reaction bait techniques.
Which Lew’s Reel Is Best for Bass Fishing?
The Lew’s Tournament Pro G Speed Spool (7.5:1 gear ratio) dominates bass fishing with its 14-pound carbon-fiber drag and 95mm swept handle. Its 34mm aluminum spool handles braided lines down to 10lb test, while the 11+1 bearing system ensures silent operation during finesse presentations. Pair with medium-heavy rods for jigs or topwater lures.
For anglers targeting heavy cover, the Lew’s HyperMag Speed Spool offers a 8.3:1 retrieval rate to quickly pull bass from lily pads. Its magnesium frame reduces weight to 5.9oz while maintaining structural integrity. When fishing deep-diving crankbaits, the Lew’s BB1 Pro with 5.6:1 gears provides optimal torque for lures reaching 25-foot depths. Consider these pairings:
| Technique | Recommended Model | Gear Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Flipping/Pitching | Tournament MB | 7.5:1 |
| Deep Cranking | BB1 Pro | 5.6:1 |
| Topwater Frogs | Mach Crush | 8.3:1 |
How Does Gear Ratio Impact Lew’s Reel Performance?
Lew’s gear ratios range from 5.6:1 (power fishing) to 8.3:1 (burning spinnerbaits). A 6.8:1 reel retrieves 28″ per crank vs. 34″ at 7.5:1. High-speed models excel in flipping/pitching where quick line pickup matters, while lower ratios provide torque for deep-cranking 10XD lures. Match ratios to lure speed: 5.6-6.4:1 for crankbaits, 7.1+ for frogs/worms.
The relationship between gear ratio and line recovery becomes critical when fishing moving baits. A 7.5:1 reel recovers 31 inches of line per handle turn with a full spool, but this decreases as line capacity diminishes. For consistent performance in current-heavy situations, the Lew’s Custom Lite with 6.4:1 ratio maintains optimal pressure on fish while preventing gear train overload. Anglers should note that higher gear ratios require more frequent drag maintenance due to increased mechanical stress.
What Maintenance Do Lew’s Reels Require?
Disassemble Lew’s reels every 50 fishing hours: soak bearings in acetone, apply CorrosionX to gears, and lubricate spool shafts with TSI 321. Saltwater models need post-trip rinses with warm water to clear micro-crystals. Use Lew’s Reel Cleaner & Lubricant Kit ($19.99) on drag washers annually. Always store with drags loosened to prevent pressure on carbon stacks.
Why Choose Lew’s Over Other Reel Brands?
Lew’s reels offer 30% faster gear engagement than Shimano’s Curado series due to their proprietary Speed Dial centrifugal brakes. At 6.7oz, the Mach Crush is 1.3oz lighter than comparable Daiwa Tatulas. Their Custom Speed Spool provides 22% more line capacity than Abu Garcia’s Revo SX in similar sizes, critical for long casts with 65lb braid.
How to Match Lew’s Reels to Rod Power?
Pair Lew’s 100-size reels (6.8oz) with medium-light rods for 1/8-3/8oz lures. Their 300-series (8.1oz) suits heavy rods tossing 1-4oz swimbaits. The BB1 Pro’s 170mm handle balances best on 7’3″ rods with fast tips. Check lure weight ratings: a 200-size reel on a MH rod handles 3/8-1oz jigs optimally.
Expert Views
“Lew’s reels revolutionized the market with their instant anti-reverse systems – we’re seeing near-zero backplay even after 200+ hours of use. Their Hybrid line management system combines centrifugal and magnetic brakes, letting anglers fine-tune casts in winds up to 15mph. For bass tournaments, they’re the first choice in 63% of Elite Series anglers’ arsenals.”
— Tournament Pro Staffer, Lew’s Design Team
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal Lew’s reel demands analysis of fishing environment, target species, and technique-specific features. From the hyper-sensitive Tournament Pro for finesse bass to the brute-strength Custom Hybrid Saltwater model, Lew’s engineering prioritizes casting precision and durability. Regular maintenance preserves their trademark 0.003mm spool wobble tolerance for decade-long performance.
FAQs
- Can Lew’s reels handle saltwater fishing?
- Yes, Lew’s Custom Hybrid Saltwater series features stainless steel bearings and triple-sealed drags rated for 500+ hours in brackish conditions. Always rinse after use.
- What’s the warranty on Lew’s reels?
- Lew’s offers 1-year limited warranty, extendable to 3 years with product registration. Covers manufacturing defects but not saltwater corrosion.
- Are Lew’s reels compatible with left-handed retrieve?
- 78% of Lew’s models offer left/right retrieve swap via simple screwdriver adjustment. Exceptions include the Tournament MB with non-reversible gears.