Line Counter Reels for Trolling Recommendations

[oomph]

Hello,

I noticed that some of the guys that are trolling crank baits are using line counter reels. What make / model reel would you all recommend looking into?

Right now I have two B"n"M Pro Staff Trolling rods, I'm still in the learning process, but could use some recommendations on an optimal setup. For now I will be trolling out the back of the boat. What pound test are you guys using?

[M R Dux]

I use Okuma Magda 15 reels with 12 pound Trilene Big Game solar collector line. Most guys use 10 pound mono but I'll save twice as many hung-up cranks on the 12 than 10. I use 6-6.5 foot rods off the back of my boat. I use the longer rods off the sides.

[wicklundrh]

I used to use Okuma Magda and convector reels however they always seem to have an issue with the reset button on the line counter. It is located on the top of a the reel and some of them love to stick, not turn the wheel correctly, and so on. When you place the rods in a locker (if you do so) those buttons tend to get pushed in.

I've switched over to Diawa Accudepth 17's and 27's. The 17's is all you would need for crappie. I use strickly 10 lb but am not trolling in heavy cover. The reason for 10 lbs is I utilize the precision trolling app that tells me the correct setback for dive depths and they do all their testing with berkley xt 10lb. Realistically, if you find another (stronger line) with the same diameter, the dive curve would be the same.

It takes 1000 feet of line to "properly" fill an accudepth 17 and have the reel calibrated correctly. 1500 feet for the accudepth 27 to be calibrated correctly.

For more information on Line counter calibrations, go to: How To – Fish Sniper Tackle

Please keep in mind however that we are comparing walleye fishing to crappie fishing here (as that is the majority of my trolling). There may be other reels available that will work good for you at a reduced size or cost.

For the best prices I have found on trolling equipment (including several makes and models of line counter reels) try Northwoods outlet. https://northwoodsoutlet.com

[Cray]

Best Buy out there right now for crappie fishing. Especially just getting started.
https://northwoodsoutlet.com/product...trolling-reel/

[oomph]

size 15 or 20?

[Cray]

size 15 or 20?

Size 15

[oomph]

How much line does it take to properly calibrate the 15 sized reel?

[jimp]

Close to max capacity, most people use cheapo 10# line as "filler" and then tie on the good stuff for the last 200-300' of line. After you get the line on BUT before you cut the tag end, calibrate the reel by adding or removing the good line according to the tips. Just google how to calibrate your particular reel (I use the Magda 15), and adjust according.

[oomph]

thank you all. I went ahead and ordered 4 Shakespeare Line Counter Reels.

[broharrell]

They will suite you just fine.