Mitchell - Copperhead

[Paul]

I am thinking about getting a new reel - I was wondering if anyone has any experience with the Mitchell copperhead - or could you suggest another - I have a 6'6" Ugly stick - do a lot of jigging.

[bountyhunter]

I"VE got to of them they are great BUT DON"T HOLD A HOLE LOT OF LINE .I use them for jiging also no problem .jim

[Dr. David A. Johnson]

Paul,
I've been using Mitchell Copperhead MCH20-IAR (rear-drag)spinning reels on my jigging rods with 4lb Fluorescent Flame Green Fireline, since last fall. I've been a Mitchell spinning reel user for over 40 years, but I have to honestly say that the MCH20-IAR 5-bearing copperhead spinning reel is the smoothest yet! You'll not be disappointed in their performance! Tight lines and good fishing!

[205]

Had two of them Paul till last fall. One went overboard with my favorite Berkeley rod into the Monongahela River when my boat seat gave way on a hook set.:-( Other than that, I like the reels. For the buck, they do the job. I grabbed some Pflueger Trion reels at Kames in Canton for about the same money. Like these also. Havnt owned a Stradic yet, but till I learn to keep them in the boat I'll fish with less expensive ones.:7

[Red2]

I bought a pair of copperhead rods and reels for my son and myself. I work for the parent company that use to own this (johnson out doors) What a bunch of junk!! I can see why they sold this company. The worst reels I ever ownd and I've own quite alot. My opion!! Tim

[Fish Hound]

Try the Shakespeare Catera Reels. Best reel you can buy for $30
The Fish Hound

[REW]

Tim,
Are you referring to the rods or to the reels.
I have to admit, I have used several of both the casting, and also of the spinning reels, and have yet to experience a single problem with any of the reels.

I have not used any of the rods, but felt that they were - just an OK rod - compared to what you can get.

Take care
REW

[GanderEyezed]

Mitchell The new company JWC who was bought out by who else but pure fishing. The copperheads in my opinion are not the best by any means.
You can catch fish with any reel. But are you really going to be satisfied with this reel. I work with these products everyday and hear first hand testimonials from customers who use these products.
In my eyes these these reels would not satisfy every serious or average angler out there. For 10-15 bucks more you can invest in a much more quality reel. Something that has metal parts such as bearings, gears and the frame. Which in time will give you your moneys worth. And you just might be satisfied.

GanderEyezed
"Always think like a fish no matter how weird it gets"

[red2]

REW, The reels were absolute junk. I can't remember which models they were. But they were spin cast. I bought them to use in canada for pike fishing. What a waste!!Tim

[eyedoktr]

I have to agree with fish hound. Get a Shakespeare Catera. I have $50-60 reels that aren't nearly as good as the 5 Cateras I have now.

[205]

Paul, One mans junk is another mans treasure. Some of us cant afford the Daiwa Team Z reels matched with a Loomis Rod. I have a half dozen 30 sum dollar reels that give me good service. Shakespeare Medalist 4425 is a six bearing system in the 30 dollar range that I like. And the Trion reels are six bearing also in the upper 30 dollar class that are "good" reels. If I was making a living fishing 300 days a year I might invest in gear that could take the punishment. Just saying, theres a lot of good, better and best out there depending on how much you want to spend.:7

[REW]

Russell

If a reel has 6 ball bearings, with reasonable alignment - and if the drag is good - what more can you want - and why shouldn't you get good service out of it.

I have to agree with your comment on some of the reels that you mention. Good reels, that can be fished hard, and will last for a long time.

The key thing to check for - is -
a. Absolute bullet proof drag - resettable, never sticks, and stays constant at any given setting.
b. "Smooth" gears. Nothing worse - than feeling a "catch" due to bad gears during casting and retreiving.
c. Good non slip handles - and good bail system, that uses components that don't easily break.

All of these features are present in some $30 reels, not present in others.

All of these features are present in some $150 reels, but not present in others. Shop wisely, and invest in the reels that meet all of your needs and requirements.

Don't get married to a "reel brand."

Yes, certain brands have a "reputation" for making a good reel. However, nearly any manufacturer has made some reeol that simply don't work well under some conditions.
But, if you don't try different brands - you don't know what you might be missing as far as a great value is concerned.

Take care
REW