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Old 11-10-2004, 08:39 AM   #3
JoeP
Registered User
 
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: RI
Posts: 429
Guys, I just gave this input on another website to a guy interested in the Saltigas. I have 2 and they are great reels.

I have a Saltiga 4500 and a Saltiga 4000. These are the same exact reels just with different size spools, that is why the 4500 weighs about .2 ounces less than the 4000, which more than balances out when you consider the 4500 holds more line. There is also a 4500GT which just has a higher gear ratioo. This goes for the 5000, 6000, and 6000GT which are the same reels with different sized spools (and the GT has a high gear ratio).

The 4500 is comparable in size/strength to a Stella 8000 and the 4000 to a Stella 6000.

The 4500 holds up to 250 yards of 50 LB power pro and the 4000 hold up to 210 yards of 50 LB power pro or over 250 yards of 30 LB power pro. The Saltiga 4500/4000 is plenty of reel for fishing the surf (the 5000, 6000, and 6000GT are very heavy and probably overkill).

If you do some research on these reels you will find that ALL models were originally designed as powerful offshore spinning reels for tuna, giant trevalley, yellowtail, etc.; all fish that need powerful reels with strong drags. The drag on the 4500/4000 is very strong and very smooth.

I sold 2 Van Staals last year that I used for a couple of seasons to buy these Saltigas, and I like the Saltigas much better.

I fished them in the surf all year and they are unbelieveable reels. While I don't swimfish or reel underwater, these reels did get the occasional dunk, splash, hit by waves, etc., and I have had zero problems. I rinse them with freshwater after evry trip. I fished these reels in the same conditions that caused my former Fin-nor Ahabs to freeze up due to corroded innards from dunkings by the end of each season.

Also, they cast great, and the strong manual bail avoids any problems with premature bail closures.

Finally, Daiwa America will service them for a small fee (I think $15) on an annual basis by sending the reels to them. Just call Daiwa and ask about the program.

If you PM me I will give a couple of US websites that you can but these reels on for around $600.

Any other questions just ask.
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