I’m thinking about getting one of these reels for a new 8wt. I’m a real cheap skate at heart and the thought of spending more than $150 for a reel just makes my wallet cring. Anybody here have any experience with either of these reels as to quality.
One other question. What an opinion on the Matrix blanks made by American Tackle Co. I’m thinking about building my dad a rod for Father’s day and the blanks are really beautiful. He has an open loop casting style that I think the moderate action rod would suit well, but I’ve never cast one so I’m not sure.
I’ve got a Cortland prescision XC and really like it. I’ve played around with the Endurance reels at dealers and must admit that I’m pretty impressed with how they look and feel. I don’t know if I’d actually buy one, simply because after having a cheaper reel and upgrading to something with a better drag, I just wouldn’t go back, even if you paid me to. I’v got two Cortland rods and the reel and have always been more than pleased with how they have performed, I’m sure the Endurance would be the same.
The Trions are great and the Endurance is good for the money. I’ve also played with one of the new Pflueger Summit LA’s. It’s very nice at $79. I don’t know about building from that blank but have heard very good things about some rods made from them that were purchased on ebay.