Musky Reels

[riverwader]

I'm looking for a new reel that I can use for smaller Musky lures like #5 and #6 Bucktails. The Musky in my lake seem to prefer smaller Bucktails.  Actually, I find a lot do.  I caught my PB 51" on LOTW with a #5 Buchertail. I have a Revo Toro Winch 61 with a 4.6:1 ratio that's great for throwing larger baits, but it's a lot of work to keep a spinner moving fast. I'm trying to find something with a maybe a 7:1 ratio that takes up around 35 inches per reel turn.  Anyone have any suggestions?

Edited June 4 by riverwader

[12 Volt Man]

They are pricey but the Tranx reels are amazing. I have the 400A which is 5.8 to one gear ratio but they make a faster one for burning bucktails. 

Either the 300 or 400 would be fine. 

Edited June 4 by 12 Volt Man

[EsoxWanderer]

Ya maybe a 300 Tranx as suggested above for size 5/6 blades? I have a couple of older Tranx 400s that do have some drag slip, which can get annoying/botch hooksets if not constantly adjusted. (Probably less of an issue for smaller bucktails).

[CrowMan]

I'm a Daiwa guy when it comes to reels...their drags are phenomenal, and I like the t-wing casting guides. One area the Tranx are lacking is the drag (18 or 22lbs max).

You can get a Prorex or Lexa right up to 8.1 to 1 ratio, but burning blades requires power as even the smaller ones create a lot of resistance. A high ratio reel is going to be tiring. For double Cowgirls (and the like) your 4.6:1 Revo would be ideal.  With smaller blades, like you suggest, you can probably up the ratio...but I think something in the 7:1 ratio range might wear you out quickly.

I have a Prorex 400 5.3 to 1, which works well for smaller blades and cranks. I have a 7.1:1 Lexa that I reserve for jerk and glide baits. However, as long as you keep to small bucktails it might be OK for that too.

If you want something even smaller in hand, look at a Lexa 300...it's a solid lightweight reel.

 

 

 

Edited June 5 by CrowMan