Daiwa Saltist
 

I'm looking at the Daiwa Saltist 4000 or 4500 spinning reel. I'm thinking or matching it up with an 9' rod possiblly an 8' rod at times too. Which reel do you think would be better suited? Also is the handle reversable?

Thanks in advance

The differences between the 4000 and 4500 are too small to make much of a difference in weight and balance. I'd get the 4500 because they weigh about the same, and cost the same, but the 4500 holds more line. And yes, the handles are reversible.

Thanks Mike, And the 4500 would be well suited for a 9'er correct? I appreciate the feedback.

Depends on your rod. The 4500 is close to a VS200 in weight. I have one that I made bail less but will likely be getting rid of. It will die quickly in the places I fish. Better suited for the canal/boat where being submerged or caked in sand are a non-issue.

Whichever Saltist you get make sure you replace the crap plastic line roller bushings with shielded ball bearings. A few shops have them or they can be ordered online. Got mine from redtop.

The reel is solid and drag is smooth, just found it to be not applicable for my needs.

I picked up the 4500 back in late August and paired it with a Mojo 10'6". I like the way it feels on that rod, but depending on the rod it may be a nice match on a 9'er too. I don't use it a real lot as it's my secondary set up for when I fish the canal, but so far so good. It's a great reel for that price point and as Toaster said, it's got a very smooth drag and is well built.

Haven't been on in a couple days I already ordered it but thanks. I will look into relplacing that line roller bushing toaster.