M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch ECO Pre-Loaded Fly Fishing Reel Aluminum Body with Fly Line, Backing, Leader(3/4wt 5/6wt 7/8wt) (Black ECO Reel with Line, 3/4 wt)

First, let me say I bought this reel as a saltwater reel I wouldn’t cry over if I damaged it. Last time I fished from the beach, I dropped my spinning set up in the surf and couldn’t ever get the sand completely out of the reel or get the anti reverse to work again. I haven’t fished with this reel yet, so will post an update once I do, but here are my first thoughts.My initial impression is that for under $20, I love the reel. It’s not perfect, but when you factor in the price, it’s nice looking, has an ok drag and seems to work well. The old saying, “Buy cheap, buy twice” definitely seems to fit, but for the purposes and price point I bought it for, I’m thrilled.I wrote to Maxcatch after receiving my reel because there were some rough/slightly sharp edges on the spool. They immediately sent me a replacement reel, which is awesome. The only thing was that there was a huge difference between the quality and strength of the drag of the two reels (both 7/8 wt). The first reel had a solid, smooth drag, and every click of the drag knob made a gradual change in tension. The replacement reel required several clicks before the drag engaged and started increasing, but the intervals were much less gradual and the drag wasn't nearly as smooth. It went from virtually no drag to max drag too quickly, and the max drag was heavier than the first reel’s max drag.Pros:-Maxcatch is very responsive and stands behind their products-pricepoint-looks awesome-has smooth bearingsCons:-quality control isn’t great—drag and fit inconsistencies between the two identical reels I have-fit and finish aren’t perfect—some rough/semi-sharp edges and a tiny bit of spool wobble-numbers on drag dial aren’t in a logical order (0, 3, 9, 6…hmmm), but who cares?-(personal preference) the spool rotates freely to reel in line—there is no click on the retrieve or anything that keeps it from a free spin like a spinning reel

One reel had a bad drag, They replaced it no problem.The preloaded line casts pretty dang good. The line casts a lot better than what comes with the Reddington Minnow for beginners.It’s a good deal for the reel combo. The reels look nice, they have a little wobble in one spot if you look very close, but it feels smooth when reeling. No complaints for the cost. Not sure how durable they are yet.

I paired this 3/4 weight reel with a Fenwick World Class 6-piece, 8-ft rod and it balances very well. I wanted a smaller weight reel/rod setup that is easy to carry through woods and fish on smaller mountain streams in PA. Used it recently on the Lehigh River as a test (a larger waterbody than what I bough it for) and it casts very well. The fly line, backing and tapered leader is already included which is a nice bonus. The only thing I have to do is reverse the line because I cast with my left arm (my stronger arm) and reel with my right hand and this handle is on the left. The only minor issue is that the drag doesn't adjust correctly. At the highest setting, the reel doesn't even turn. The range of drag is way too broad. I only use the lowest 2 clicks, if that makes sense. I think there are 10 click settings. Overall, a very good reel that comes prespooled for less than $30.

I have used the 3/4 reel for 4 seasons ... mainly bass & bluegill. The drag started out smooth, but got jerky after the 2nd season. Cleaned and oiled the roller bearings and the drag was smooth again. I did not have to open the frame side of the reel with the drag. I now clean and oil the spool side of this reel after every season ... more frequently than my other reels. Fortunately, it is an easy task. Be careful not to force the nylon roller bearing cage while removing it ... seems flimsier than others I've seen.

The drag is great