Daiwa has long been a leading name in the fishing industry, and the Exceler LT Spinning Reels continue to demonstrate the company’s commitment to producing high-quality and reliable equipment. In this review, we will take a closer look at the Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels, focusing on their performance in saltwater fishing environments and evaluating their pros and cons.
Technical Specifications Chart: Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels
| Model | Reel Size | Gear Ratio | Bearings | Line Capacity (Mono) | Line Capacity (Braid) | Max Drag (lbs) | Weight (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exceler LT 1000 | 1000 | 5.2:1 | 5+1 | 4/250, 6/160, 8/110 | 6/320, 8/200, 10/160 | 8.8 | 6.4 |
| Exceler LT 2000 | 2000 | 5.3:1 | 5+1 | 6/160, 8/110, 10/80 | 8/220, 10/185, 15/130 | 11 | 7.2 |
| Exceler LT 2500 | 2500 | 5.3:1 | 5+1 | 8/240, 10/210, 12/160 | 10/250, 15/185, 20/120 | 22 | 7.9 |
| Exceler LT 3000 | 3000 | 5.3:1 | 5+1 | 10/280, 12/220, 14/165 | 15/250, 20/220, 30/160 | 22 | 8.1 |
| Exceler LT 4000 | 4000 | 5.2:1 | 5+1 | 12/330, 14/250, 16/195 | 20/280, 30/200, 40/160 | 26.4 | 9.8 |
| Exceler LT 5000 | 5000 | 5.2:1 | 5+1 | 14/400, 16/330, 20/220 | 30/230, 40/150, 50/125 | 26.4 | 10.6 |
| Exceler LT 6000 | 6000 | 5.1:1 | 5+1 | 16/390, 20/310, 25/240 | 30/310, 40/240, 50/190 | 26.4 | 11.6 |
Overview:
The Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels are a series of lightweight and versatile spinning reels designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. With the incorporation of Daiwa’s Light and Tough technology, these reels boast an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Available in various sizes and gear ratios, the Exceler LT reels cater to a wide range of angling styles and preferences.
What I Look for in a Saltwater Reel:
When evaluating a saltwater reel, several factors are important to consider. These include durability, corrosion resistance, smooth drag system, line capacity, gear ratio, and overall performance. A good saltwater reel should be able to withstand harsh conditions and deliver consistent results in demanding situations.
Fishing with the Daiwa Exceler LT:
The Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels excel in saltwater environments thanks to their rugged construction and corrosion-resistant materials. The carbon light body and Air Rotor design significantly reduce the reel’s weight, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. With a smooth and powerful drag system, the Exceler LT can easily handle hard-fighting fish species.
What the Daiwa Exceler LT Does Best:
The Exceler LT reels truly shine in their lightweight design and durability. The Light and Tough technology ensures that the reel remains strong and reliable, even when faced with the rigors of saltwater fishing. In addition, the Magsealed main shaft and line roller provide an extra layer of protection against corrosion, extending the reel’s lifespan.
Where the Daiwa Exceler LT is Lacking:
While the Exceler LT reels have many positive attributes, a few areas could be improved. Some users have reported that the bail system can be a bit finicky, occasionally causing line issues during retrieval. Additionally, although the drag system is powerful, it may not be as smooth as other high-end reels in the market.
Buying Guide
If you’re considering purchasing a Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reel, this buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. We’ll discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect reel for your angling needs, ensuring that you invest in a reel that suits your style and preferences.
- Determine Your Fishing Place and Target Species: The first step in selecting the right Exceler LT reel is to identify the type of environment you’ll be fishing in and the species you plan to target. The Exceler LT series is designed for fresh and saltwater environments, making it a versatile choice for various anglers. However, you’ll want to select a reel size that matches the size and power of the fish you’ll be pursuing.
- Choose the Appropriate Reel Size: Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels are available in various sizes, each suitable for different fishing applications. Smaller reel sizes (1000-2500) are ideal for light inshore fishing and targeting smaller species, while larger sizes (3000-6000) are better suited for heavier inshore and offshore fishing targeting larger fish. Make sure to choose a reel size that aligns with your angling goals.
- Select the Right Gear Ratio: The gear ratio of a spinning reel determines how quickly the line is retrieved with each turn of the handle. Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels are available in different gear ratios, so choosing one that suits your fishing style is essential. Lower gear ratios (e.g., 5.2:1) provide more power for fighting larger fish but retrieving the line slower. Higher gear ratios (e.g., 6.2:1) retrieve lines faster, making them ideal for faster presentations and quick line retrieval.
- Consider Line Capacity: Line capacity is another critical factor to consider when choosing an Exceler LT reel. Ensure the reel you select accommodates the desired line capacity for your fishing needs. This includes both the line strength and the amount of line you’ll need for your targeted species and fishing environment.
- Look for Quality and Durability: The Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels are known for their durability and quality construction. Look for features such as the carbon light body, Air Rotor design, and Magsealed main shaft and line roller, which contribute to the reel’s overall durability and corrosion resistance.
- Assess the Drag System: A smooth and powerful drag system is crucial when fighting large, strong fish. The Exceler LT reels have an advanced drag system that delivers consistent pressure throughout the fight, enabling you to handle hard-fighting fish species.
- Budget: Lastly, consider your budget when selecting a Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reel. The series is available at various price points, so choose one that fits your budget without compromising on quality and performance.
With this buying guide, you now have the information needed to make an informed decision when purchasing a Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reel. By considering factors such as reel size, gear ratio, line capacity, and budget, you can find the perfect reel for your angling needs and enjoy a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.
The Upshot:
Overall, the Daiwa Exceler LT Spinning Reels are a solid choice for saltwater anglers, offering a combination of lightweight design, durability, and reliable performance. Although there are a few minor drawbacks, the reels’ advantages far outweigh their limitations. If you’re in the market for a dependable saltwater spinning reel, the Daiwa Exceler LT series is certainly worth considering.
