Let’s Talk About Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1
The Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1 is designed specifically for crappie fishing, a species that demands finesse and a keen understanding of presentation. This reel, part of the Mr. Crappie lineup from Lew’s, promises a blend of affordability and functional design aimed at the dedicated crappie angler. Its lightweight construction, pre-spooled line, and extended reel foot stem aim to provide a comfortable and effective fishing experience.
I was on the hunt for a dedicated crappie reel that wouldn’t break the bank. My existing reels, while versatile, lacked the specific features I needed for consistently landing slab crappies.
My first impression upon unboxing the Lew’s SO1 was its incredibly light weight. The graphite frame felt surprisingly sturdy for its size, and the pre-spooled line was a definite plus for getting me on the water quickly.
Compared to my Shimano Sienna and Daiwa Revros, the Lew’s SO1 felt more specialized. I chose the Lew’s reel because I wanted a dedicated crappie reel with the right features for the job. I was excited to test whether its design would translate to improved crappie-catching performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lew’s SO1 on a local lake known for its healthy crappie population. I used it with a 10-foot crappie rod, jigging minnows around submerged brush piles.
The reel performed admirably in calm conditions, but a light drizzle didn’t seem to affect its performance either. The extended reel foot stem made a noticeable difference in handling and control, providing a secure and comfortable grip.
The Lew’s SO1 felt natural in my hand almost immediately. I appreciated how quickly I could adjust the drag with the audible click function.
After the first outing, I was impressed with the smoothness of the retrieve and the drag’s responsiveness. I didn’t encounter any major issues, but I did notice a slight flex in the graphite frame under heavier loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lew’s SO1 has held up surprisingly well. It is showing some minor cosmetic wear on the graphite frame, but this hasn’t affected its performance.
The reel’s durability has been decent, with no significant mechanical failures. However, I’ve noticed that the pre-spooled line is starting to show signs of wear and may need replacing soon.
Maintaining the Lew’s SO1 is simple; a quick rinse after each use and occasional lubrication of the moving parts keeps it running smoothly. It definitely outperforms my older, less specialized reels when targeting crappie.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1
Specifications
- 2 Bearing System: The Lew’s SO1 features a simple 2-bearing system. This provides decent smoothness for its price point.
- Graphite Frame and Spool: The reel utilizes a strong and lightweight graphite frame and spool. This minimizes overall weight.
- Extended Reel Foot Stem: This is a key design element, the extended reel foot stem promotes better handling and control. It is especially useful when using longer crappie rods.
- Multi-Disc Drag with Click Function: The wide range, multi-disc drag offers smooth and consistent performance. The addition of a click function makes drag adjustments more precise.
- Large Arbor Design: The large arbor design minimizes line twist. It also increases line recovery speed.
- Weight: The reel weighs in at a mere 3.0 oz (without line). This makes it extremely comfortable for all-day fishing.
- Pre-Spooled Line: The Lew’s SO1 comes pre-spooled with Mr. Crappie premium line. This is a convenient feature for beginners or those looking to hit the water quickly.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the reel’s usability and performance in crappie fishing scenarios. The lightweight design and extended reel foot enhance comfort and control, while the large arbor and multi-disc drag ensure smooth line management and reliable fish-fighting capability.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s SO1 excels at its intended purpose: presenting lightweight crappie jigs and minnows with precision and finesse. It’s easy to cast accurately, and the drag system is smooth enough to protect light line when fighting fish.
A strength is its lightweight design and comfortable grip. A weakness is its lack of robustness compared to higher-end reels.
The Lew’s SO1 meets expectations for an entry-level crappie reel. It provides good performance at an affordable price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lew’s SO1 boasts a simple, functional design. Its graphite construction contributes to its incredibly light weight.
The extended reel foot and compact body make it comfortable to hold for extended periods. There’s a minimal learning curve; it’s very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lew’s SO1 should last several seasons of moderate use. The graphite frame is prone to cosmetic wear, but the internal components should remain functional with regular maintenance.
Cleaning and lubricating the reel is straightforward. It’s easy to keep in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s SO1 comes pre-spooled with Mr. Crappie line, eliminating the immediate need for additional accessories. There aren’t many customization options for this particular reel model.
It is compatible with most standard crappie rods and aftermarket line options. Anglers looking for upgraded performance could consider replacing the pre-spooled line with a higher-quality brand.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1
Pros
- Extremely lightweight design: Reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions.
- Extended reel foot stem: Provides enhanced comfort and control.
- Pre-spooled with line: Ready to use right out of the package.
- Affordable price: Excellent value for beginner to intermediate anglers.
- Smooth drag system: Protects light line when fighting crappie.
Cons
- Graphite frame flex: Noticeable flex under heavy loads.
- Limited customization options: Not designed for extensive upgrades.
Who Should Buy Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1?
The Lew’s SO1 is perfect for beginner crappie anglers who need an affordable and easy-to-use reel. It’s also well-suited for experienced anglers looking for a lightweight and dedicated crappie reel for specific fishing situations.
Anglers targeting larger species or fishing in demanding conditions should skip this product. The Lew’s SO1 is designed for finesse crappie fishing.
A must-have is a quality crappie rod to complement the reel’s lightweight design and enhance sensitivity. Anglers should consider upgrading the pre-spooled line with a higher-quality option for increased performance and durability.
Conclusion on Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1
The Lew’s SO1, Mr C Slab Shaker SOLO Reel (BLISTER) SO1 is a solid choice for anglers seeking an affordable and functional crappie reel. It is delivering good performance and ease of use.
The price is definitely justified for the features and performance offered. It’s an excellent value for budget-conscious anglers.
I would personally recommend the Lew’s SO1 to anyone looking for a dedicated crappie reel without breaking the bank. It’s a reliable and effective tool that will help you put more slabs in the boat. Go get yours today and experience the difference!