looking for some input on a conventional reel for fishing eels from a boat. Probably use for drifting sandeels too. Don't need a large reel. Probably on a 7 to 8 foot rod. Braid. level wind probably. Got tons of reels, most a little too large for my liking. Want something newer. What do you like. P.

I think the all round best is the Abu Record it has it all !!!!!:uhuh:

I'd go for a Saltist levelwind in a 20 or 30 size. Nice reel for the dough. Strong drag.

Take the mono off that 400 you have , put on braid and I'd think you would be all set. Then sell your other reels and save the money for crack cocaine...cause that will be next.

Diawa saltist 20 with the levelwind would be perfect.

Check out any avet if you can deal with non level wind. For something small the SX is nice but I prefer the MXJ as my hands are big. With eels I fish them on free spool with the clicker on. I set the strike just tight enough to bury a hook and then full is pretty much the boots. Haven't used much else as they are perfect for my needs.

I like my Torium a lot... Very smooth and I like the high retrieve speed, especially when I use it for blackfishing. Not a levelwind, but easy enough to lay the line evenly with your thumb.

Paul, be sure to check out an Abu Record RCN 60 HC. Mine is the lefty version and I'm looking to pick up a back up. Thumb bar is a nice option. My go to boat reel for livelining and eels.

You have Calcutta 400, eh? What else do you need?

You have Calcutta 400, eh? What else do you need?

seriously. I love those things.

George is right I do. Man you got a good memory. I was going to use that but was curious what others are using, but I think I'll lay off the crack as I don't work enough hours to support that habit.

Calcutta 400:fishin:

Put a ABU 7000 on there and keep the mono on it. remeber if you can feel the fish with the braid Paul the fish can also feel you.Your not worrying about castin a long way so stick with the mono

....... but I think I'll lay off the crack as I don't work enough hours to support that habit.

Reconsider. It is cheaper than eels, less addicting, and accomplishes about the same thing.

400 TE

Saltist level wind 20 seriously.... I throw one everytime I fish... Absolutely live it. Very strong lil reel
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Paul My boat inshore coventional is a 140 squider. I can leave it on the boat and wash it off come December. For eels or sandeels i use pink ande 20lb. For deep water i use 30lb.
I use a 9' glass rod for walking eels. The length makes it easier with the small eels of the day. Hope this helps

Calcutta 400, love the reel