For surface iron and jig, 40-50# mono topshot over 65# spectra. Need reel suggestions. Thinking JX Raptor, Trinidad 20, Andros 12Sii, Tesoro 12. Any others? Thanks, Jim
I vote for the JX Raptor, it's what I've used for a few years and love. For me, at least, the Magic Cast is nice, especially when casting into the wind. More drag that you'll ever need, a low gear in case you tie into a larger model, and screaming fast high gear to attract their attention. Easy to work on. And it was made in the US.
Raptors are extremely reliable. Tons of drag without pushing the pinion bearing too hard. And compared to many competing reels, very elegantly designed and easy to work on. I love my JX Raptor and have lots of wahoo and a couple nice tuna on it.
I'll echo on the JX. Own two, old first production 2 speed and a newer MC version 2 speed, wish I had a Raptor. Versatile, capable, my go-to reel for casting, wahoo, tuna, most anything. Have caught plenty of tuna in the 110# range on my JX's, seen many larger fish taken on the reels. Fish them within their design limits and they are wonderful long term performers.
