First Impressions of Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel
The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel immediately catches the eye with its sleek white, black, gray, and green color scheme. Lew’s has built a reputation for quality and innovation, and I was eager to see if this reel lived up to the hype, especially given its focus on finesse techniques. This reel, designed for lighter baits, promises enhanced casting control and smooth performance, something I’ve been actively seeking to improve my finesse fishing game.
I’ve been increasingly frustrated with the difficulty of casting lightweight lures with my older baitcasters; they often result in backlashes or simply lack the distance I need. I needed a reel specifically designed for finesse presentations. This model seemed like a perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the reel feels remarkably light and well-balanced. The one-piece graphite frame feels sturdy, and the 95mm bowed aluminum handle with Combat Grips feels comfortable and secure in hand. Compared to my Shimano Curado DC, which is a workhorse but can be a bit bulky for light lures, and my Abu Garcia Revo SX, which I find sometimes struggles with very light line, the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel felt immediately different. Its shallow spool design and the Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) system hinted at the finesse capabilities I desired. Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to get it out on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel was on a local lake known for its pressured bass population and clear water. I paired it with a 7-foot medium-light action rod and 8-pound fluorocarbon line, focusing on casting weightless soft plastics and small crankbaits. Conditions were slightly breezy, which often makes finesse fishing with baitcasters a real challenge.
The reel performed admirably right out of the gate. The MSB system made dialing in the cast control surprisingly easy, even with the wind. I was able to cast weightless Texas-rigged worms much further and with more accuracy than I could with my previous setup, experiencing virtually no backlashes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel continues to impress. The finish has held up well, showing no signs of chipping or fading, despite regular contact with rod holders and tackle boxes. I’ve fished it in both sunny and rainy conditions, and the reel maintains its smooth performance regardless.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down after each trip and occasional lubrication of the bearings have kept it running flawlessly. Compared to some of my older reels that require frequent cleaning and adjustments, the Mach 1 SS is remarkably low-maintenance. It consistently outperforms other baitcasters in its price range when it comes to casting distance and accuracy with light lures. It also has eliminated the frustration of constant adjustments and backlashes I experienced with older reels.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel
Specifications
- The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel boasts a 7+1 stainless steel double shielded ball bearing system, providing smooth and consistent operation. This is a crucial element for reducing friction and enhancing casting distance and retrieve smoothness.
- It features a Rulon drag system, offering 15 lbs. of maximum drag, which is more than sufficient for handling most bass fishing scenarios, ensuring you have the power to land those bigger fish.
- The reel has a recovery rate of 30 inches per turn, providing a good balance between speed and power for retrieving various lure types, thus allowing you to cover water efficiently.
- Its mono capacity is 8lbs/80yds, making it ideally suited for light fluorocarbon and monofilament lines commonly used in finesse fishing techniques, helping maintain line manageability.
- The reel features an externally adjustable Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) dual cast control system, allowing for precise adjustments to minimize backlashes and maximize casting distance with lightweight lures. This braking system helps anglers of all skill levels to achieve better casting performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel excels in its intended role: casting lightweight lures with precision and control. The MSB system significantly reduces the risk of backlashes, making it user-friendly even for those with less experience using baitcasters. Its smooth retrieve and strong drag system instill confidence when fighting fish, even larger ones.
The reel’s only real weakness might be its limited line capacity, which may not be ideal for situations where you need to cast very long distances with heavier line. It exceeds my expectations for a reel in this price range. Its performance is truly impressive, especially with smaller crankbaits and weightless soft plastics.
Design & Ergonomics
The reel’s one-piece graphite frame and sideplates contribute to its lightweight design. The 95mm bowed aluminum handle with Lew’s Combat Grips provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
The reel is remarkably user-friendly; the MSB system is easy to adjust, and the audible click on the spool tension cap is a nice touch. The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel is comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing fatigue during long fishing days.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel, such as the stainless steel bearings and anodized aluminum spool, suggest good long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, this reel should last for several seasons.
Maintaining the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel is relatively simple, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication. The reel’s straightforward design makes it easy to access and maintain key components, ensuring smooth performance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel doesn’t come with a lot of accessories, but its design is compatible with many aftermarket handles and knobs. You can also easily swap out the bearings for higher-performance options if desired.
The reel is compatible with a wide range of rods and lines, making it a versatile addition to any angler’s arsenal. The compatibility with various aftermarket parts allows anglers to tailor the reel to their specific preferences and fishing styles.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel
Pros
- Exceptional casting distance and accuracy with lightweight lures. This is the reel’s primary strength and a major selling point.
- The Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) system significantly reduces backlashes. This makes it user-friendly for anglers of all skill levels.
- Lightweight and comfortable design. This reduces fatigue during long fishing sessions.
- Smooth and powerful drag system. It provides ample stopping power for most bass fishing situations.
- Excellent value for the price. It offers performance comparable to reels costing significantly more.
Cons
- Limited line capacity. This may not be ideal for techniques requiring long casts with heavier line.
- Graphite frame. While lightweight, graphite may not be as durable as an aluminum frame in the long run.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel?
The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel is perfect for anglers who primarily fish for bass using finesse techniques. This includes using weightless soft plastics, small crankbaits, and finesse swimbaits. It is also an excellent choice for anglers who are new to baitcasting reels or those who struggle with backlashes.
This reel is not ideal for anglers who primarily fish with heavy lures or those who require a high line capacity for deep-water fishing. For those situations, a larger reel with a stronger frame and higher line capacity would be more suitable. A must-have accessory for this reel is a quality fluorocarbon line designed for baitcasters. Additionally, consider investing in a good rod designed for finesse fishing to maximize the reel’s performance.
Conclusion on Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel
The Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel is an outstanding reel that delivers exceptional performance for its price. It excels in casting lightweight lures with precision and control, thanks to its innovative MSB braking system.
The reel’s lightweight design, smooth operation, and powerful drag system make it a joy to use. At a price of $129.95, the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel offers incredible value for money, rivaling the performance of reels costing significantly more.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Lew’s Mach 1 SS Baitcast Reel to any angler looking to enhance their finesse fishing game. This reel will help you cast further, more accurately, and with fewer backlashes. Pick one up today and experience the difference for yourself!