ABU Garcia 5600 AB

[Neal/CO]

I am going to add another baitcasting reel. It will either be the 5600 AB Anti Backlash model or the 5600 C4. Has anybody tried the Ab model yet?

[dkooser]

You should know that I have one. Used it to troll with up at Glendo last year, in fact, I think you might have reeled in a fish with it. I dont like using the AB feature. It will not backlash on you but you will almost throw your arm out trying to cast a crank 10 yards. I will disable the AB and use it like a typical baitcaster, at that point it is average. If you are buying it for the AB feature - dont. Spend the same money or a little more on a better reel and learn how to prevent backlashes through practice.

[Neal/CO]

I think I will probably just get the C4. I never have problems with my old Ambassador, but the drag is burned out. I will relegate my Pro Qualifier reel to my jigging spoon rod. Good luck at Conchas!

[Mattman]

Ditto dkooser's reply.

I haven't even tried the AB feature yet. CAN'T use it with superlines. I use it as though its a standard reel, and it's great for that. I got mine on the buy-one-get-one-free deal they had last year, so it was a good deal, price wise, and I'm not disappointed. I wouldn't go out and buy one at full price though.


Better to have and not need than to need and not have!

Matt Davis

[Smitty]

I had one as well (OK, 2 but the first is swimming around Lake Erie behind a sheephead) and took it back and traded on the C4.. The AB sort of works but casting distance is greatly reduced. However, it works GREAT with teh big heavy casting plug that comes in the box, I just couldn't get the fish to bite on that!!!

[TK_551]

I do not like the anti backlash feature as well. It does limit casting distance.

Tom
#551

[FishEyes]

I own a 5600 AB, I was never good with a bait caster before I purchased the 5600AB. I practiced alot with it before I took it out. With a good sized spoon and 12 pound test mono I could cast easily 25 to 35 yards. I found I got the best distance with a side arm cast with this reel. I like.

Good luck

[RickK(Kowalski)]

I bought two ABU Garcia Tournament Pro TP5600C casting reels
from Fishermans Factory Outlet www.ffo-tackle.com/ Great Reel
take a look. Been useing Casting reels over 30 years, I'm really pleased with these.
Rick

[vetspet(ind)]

do they make the same model in the 6500 series?..if so a buddy of mine, mark magura in the pwt, suggested i get the larger spooled reel as it casts almost the same as the smaller one and would be more versatile...i took his advice and have a ball on lake mich casting for kings...had one nearly spool my 325 yds a couple of years ago so i really like the larger spool not sure if they have the same numbered series in the reel you are looking at...steve

[tahoej]

Buy a Calcutta. Dont waste your money on an inferior reel!!!!!

[Steve CO]

I have two. What I love them for is use for bottom bouncers. I can flip the lever and let line out without thumbing. When I have novices in my boat, I LOVE the AB feature. Prevents a lot of tangles. When I have two rods in holders, this is really a nice feature also. For casting, I have not had a problem. Yes, you lose a bit of distance but, frankly, I'm not sure that affects anything. I rarely position myself so I need to cast huge distances to fish. That just reduces my accuracy. That said, I like the AB for heavy stuff, pike and musky lures for example. For lighter lures I use a Shimano Castaic but the ABs are fine too.