Left handed inshore baitcaster

birdman · Mar-11-2005, 03:45 PM

who makes a good left handed round inshore baitcaster. Diawa, shimano, ? Millionare cv-x or calcutta 300? I can't find one. Would be used with about 14 pound test and a lot of artificials. Bait clicker a plus.

Paul F · Mar-11-2005, 03:55 PM

I've been using 6501 Ambassadors C-3 sence 97. Its stood up to fairly rough kayak use. I also have a couple of the 5501 size too. They can be had for well under $100
It takes a calcutta to beat them, but they beat the calcutta price. They also have been around forever.

I'd love a 401calcuttaTE but its too damn expensive. There is no calcutta 401. a few of the lesser shimano models have left handed. I've tried a couple and regret not just getting another ambassador.
No nothing about the diawa other than the few right handed ones my son has, are standing up very well.

6501 I've used from 12 to 20 lb test.
5501 i use 10 or 12 lb test.

KC Kevin · Mar-11-2005, 04:52 PM

I agree with Paul. The less expensive Shimanos, such as Corsair, are poor. The Cardiff is better made but I have always hated the flowery sideplates on that thing. I think the designer was :gayz: If you are on a budget, then maybe a Catala, but my wife has one and I haven't been thrilled with it either.

getagaff · Mar-11-2005, 04:55 PM

Abu 6601C4 cant be beat for the money.

birdman · Mar-11-2005, 07:27 PM

thanks for the replys. I did not consider an ambassador. I will have to check that out. I wanted to stay under $200. I was considering a Quatum cabo pt baitcaser as well. It is a new design and is lefty. Low profile, holds about 240 yards of 14 pound test. Anybody ever use Quantum reels??? Not me. The diawa millionare I was checking out is a cv-z 253 model. 200 bucks. Shimano Calcutta 300te lefty would be nice. Do they make it? The price of those at 350 bucks hurts though. Tight lines! I love new gear.

JUSTJACK · Mar-12-2005, 07:34 AM

$200 bucks will get you an Avet MXL. And I have a silver left hand in stock if you're interested. JJ

Special Ed · Mar-12-2005, 10:17 PM

ABU 6501 C3 and C4's are the way to go. I have used 10 to 25 lb. mono for bay and Inshore tails. For the price and quality they can't be beat. Easy to maintain and repair on your own as well.

Paul F · Mar-14-2005, 06:46 PM

I also have the small avet. It kicks ass, but no level wind.
My son has a calcutta 400. Its a great reel and beats my 6501.
From what I understand only the 251 calcutta is available lefty. For lefty you go the calcutta TEs which are much more expensive.
Quantum reels....Are you talking about Iron? About equal to the 6501 (brother in law has one) I want to say the 6501 is cheaper. Are you buying a rod with the reel? 200 should get you a very good rod with an Ambassodor.

**Surfdoc** · Mar-15-2005, 05:49 PM

I have the ABU 6501 C3.. 69$ at Squidco... Damn good inshore reel.. have pulled in a 22# Tail on it!

Mr_PeaCH · Mar-15-2005, 05:53 PM

The Abu's a lot cheaper. You can find them all over eBay as well.

Fresh One · Mar-15-2005, 06:06 PM

Been using one for years. Currently the reel is on the fritz but it has had some heavy saltwater use over a 7 year period. I fish 12 - 15 pound on it for rubber fishing calicos and have caught several schoolie Yellowtail on it. It is one tough reel.