Reel Help

[IGuy]

Hello,
I was wondering how many use level wind reels for trolling. Do you use one for both cranks and bouncers? I have not had much luck with this reel type, I just seem to wear them out. Most of the trolling rod selection is for casting reels and not spinning. So.... Can anyone suggest a level wind that will hold up and not cost me my annual tackle budget?
Thanks
IGUy

[TBO/MN]

I have used Abu Garcia Ambassadeur reels for years and have probably trolled a thousand miles using them. They seem to hold up the best for me. I have at the present time the 5000C3 and 5000C Vantage and love them both. They are very reasonable on the price also. I don't think the 5000 series is available anymore, but the 5500 is the same size, and I think it probably is the same reel, in the C3 models. Check out Cabelas, they carry the whole Abu line. Great reels!

The Big One

[eyewinder]

I second the Abu Garcia motion! I'm using 5500s now ($60-$70), but only quit using a 5000 a couple years ago (it's in perfect working condition) that I bought in 1970 for around $30. I've wound in everything from perch to chinook salmon with the old red Ambassadeur 5000.
If you're interested in long life, either perform annual cleaning & maintenance yourself, or (as I do) find a good reel mechanic and give them to him at the end of each season to go through.

Good (level)windin'!
eyewinder

[Fin Addict]

I have an Abu Garcia 6500 - great reel and indestructable. If you don't mind the weight, a traditional workhorse is a Penn 209. Less than $50 and if you can manage to break one, they are easy to fix w/ parts readily available.

[MR.Pike]

Take these Posts as great advice! They really are! Also with the good performance is the highly acclaimed Lifetime warranty. Go ahead and wear them out, then just take to an authorised repair location and have them repaired---Free.
I have only had to send 1 in in 15 years . It was my 1st 5500C, and I did pound the **** out of it. It was repaired and I still use it today(tear in eye) kinda chokes me up. Good luck <;{{{{{<<( Mr.Pike

[IGuy]

Thanks for the advice!
I sure do appreciate it!
IGuy

[Bob Z]

Here is one more suggestion - Penn 109 reels. Small and rugged. I have had 4 for 6 - 7 years. I took one to Baja California and caught dorado up to 25 lbs. with it. Held up well and is not to large for trolling walleye. They cost about $45 ea.