Kapstan Elite Saltwater Spinning Reel - IPX6 100% Waterproof Up to 55LBs Max Drag Big Game Fishing Reel - CNC Aluminum Body - Power Handle, 6+1+1 Corrosion-Resistance Bearing System

WOW! That was my response upon receiving my two new Kastking Kapstan 3000 Spinning Reels… This reel is a TANK… I plan to pair them with my two Kastking Inshore Estuary Rods, and I suspect this will be a wonderful marriage… 10/12/2022 Update... Finally able to use the reel on an inshore Redfish excursion... Passed with flying colors... See photo and video.... The Kapstan Series of spinning reels are exclusively for Saltwater fishing hence the IPX6 waterproof rating. The reel boasts a 5.7.1 gear ratio and in the 3000 – 4000 series a max drag rating of 30 pounds! 30 pounds is more than enough drag power for the inshore species such as Redfish, Black Drum, Speckled Sea Trout, Flounder, and the occasional Snook thrown in for good measure. I mentioned this reel is a Tank… It is; however, in the 3000 to 4000 series it’s not too heavy in my opinion. Paired with my 7’ Inshore Estuary Series Rods the whole set-up weighs in just under 19 ounces. Even casting artificials, it’s not going to wear you out. I set my reels up with Kastking’s Destron Braid (15lb test) and did a drag check. The drag was super smooth and did not have any glitches. After testing the drag, while using a digital scale, I set the drag for 3.5 lbs. (roughly 22% of the line’s poundage rating). I found that precisely setting your drag for 20% to 30% of your lines poundage rating is the key to not snapping off when fighting a good size fish. The reel, although heavy duty, is aesthetically pleasing to look at. It’s made very well with both carbon and aluminum materials. This looks to be another homerun by Kastking, and time will tell. At face value, the Kapstan Spinning Reel series is a winner… Paired with a Kastking Inshore Estuary series rod, and Kastking Braided line, it’s sure to strike fear into all inshore species!

Very smooth and robust. Heavier than I expected when compared to a saltist, slammer, etc. Good build quality and is sealed, have had no issues from stripers to flathead catfish.

Great reel. Smooth and pretty looking!

Nice reel, good quality.

Bought as a joke to see if it would last and it sure has. Very surprised with all components beside the anti reverse, it might not be perfect but the wabi sabi is what you need. The drag strength is actually on point.