Recommendations On Reel For Salmon Fishing

[flyfshn]

My neighbor and his son head north during the first weekend of October for Salmon fishing. The showed us pics, told us how much fun it is and envited us to go along next year....so, I recently built a 8# rod and wanted to know what reel you would recommend to handle Salmon? I looked at the Scientific System 2 89 (on sale for $80) and the Sage model 1600 that sells for $99. Suggestions?

[Phil Lilley]

I just use a large arbor battenkill (Orvis).

Where are you going to find LIVE salmon in October???

[flyfshn]

Phil, finally caught up with my neighbor this morning....they go to Manistee, Michigan the second week of October to fish for salmon. He said they are still running at that time and last year they brought back 250lbs of salmon.

[JobyKSU]

Missed this thread the first time...

I have the Sage 1650 and it is a fine reel. I usually play my fish by hand, but the drag is there when I need it. If you are trying to keep your budget and don't plan on using the setup that often, I would guess that the reel would be adequate.

I talked to one of my steelheader friends, and all of his suggestions were a significant step up in price (at least $150 total).

His suggestions on a budget:

#1 Ross Cimmaron Large arbor ($185)

#2 Lamson Konic ($150)

#3 Tioga Large arbor ($150)

Asked him what he fishes, and he actually uses a Sage 3400. Once you load it up with line, the stinkin' thing costs more than my first car.

[flyfishmaster]

flyfshn,

I would have to suggest looking at the Redington reels as well. Every time I use them up in New York for the big salmon, browns and stealies they work like a charm. Plus they have a little less damage to your wallet.

Later,

FFM

aka: Kim