First Impressions of Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel promises a blend of smoothness, strength, and lightweight design for discerning freshwater anglers. Lew’s has a reputation for quality, and this reel aims to deliver premium performance in a compact package. Boasting 11+1 bearings, a machined aluminum gear, and a carbon drag system, it’s designed for everything from crappie to bass.
I’ve been searching for a finesse spinning reel for light line applications on pressured waters. My old reel was clunky and lacked the sensitivity needed for detecting subtle strikes, so I sought a lighter, smoother option. The Custom Pro 100’s compact size and emphasis on smooth operation caught my attention.
Unboxing the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel, I was immediately impressed by its sleek gold and black finish. The reel felt solid and well-built despite its light weight. The aluminum frame and carbon rotor exude quality, and the handle turned with remarkable smoothness.
Compared to my Shimano Stradic Ci4+ and Daiwa Fuego LT, the Custom Pro 100 appeared to offer a similar level of refinement at a slightly more accessible price point. The Shimano felt lighter, but the Lew’s reel seemed more robust. The Daiwa was smoother out of the box, but I was eager to see how the Custom Pro 100 performed under pressure.
My initial reaction was excitement. The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel appeared to be a serious contender for my new go-to finesse reel. The smoothness was undeniable, and the overall feel suggested it was ready to handle some serious fishing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel was on a local lake known for its finicky largemouth bass. I paired it with a 6’6″ light action rod and 6lb fluorocarbon line. I was targeting bass holding tight to submerged timber with a shaky head jig.
The reel performed admirably, even in a slight breeze. The casts were smooth and surprisingly long for such a small reel. More importantly, I could feel every tick and vibration of the jig as it crawled along the bottom, even in slightly murky water.
Using the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel was intuitive; it felt natural in my hand. I had no issues adjusting to the drag system, and the handle provided a comfortable grip. The only minor issue was that I initially overtightened the drag, causing a slight hesitation on the hookset, but that was quickly remedied with a minor adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel continues to impress. The reel has been used in various conditions, from sunny days to light rain, and the performance has remained consistent. The smoothness has persisted, and I have not experienced any binding or grinding.
The reel shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The finish is still pristine, and the handle remains tight. I have also noticed no corrosion, even after exposure to saltwater spray while fishing from a pier.
Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick rinse with freshwater after each use and a light application of reel oil have kept it running smoothly. Compared to my older reels that required more frequent cleaning and lubrication, the Lew’s reel is proving to be remarkably easy to maintain. The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel has exceeded my expectations. It’s a great reel and offers great value.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel
Specifications
Reel Type: Spinning reel, designed for finesse freshwater applications. This means it is perfect for anglers targeting bass, crappie, walleye, or trout with lighter line and smaller lures.
Water Type: Freshwater, indicating that it’s primarily designed for use in lakes, rivers, and streams. Saltwater exposure should be minimized to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal performance.
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1, a moderate gear ratio that balances retrieve speed and power. This is ideal for techniques that require a slow, deliberate presentation and sufficient cranking power to fight fish.
Bearing Count: 10+1, featuring 10 stainless steel ball bearings and one one-way clutch bearing. This translates to exceptionally smooth operation and instant anti-reverse for solid hooksets.
Reel Size: 100, a compact size ideal for light tackle and finesse fishing. It provides a comfortable balance with lighter rods and minimizes fatigue during long days on the water.
Max Drag: 8 lbs, providing ample stopping power for most freshwater species targeted with light line. The hybrid carbon drag system ensures smooth and consistent drag pressure.
Recovery: 24 inches per turn, indicating the amount of line retrieved with each full rotation of the handle. This moderate retrieve rate is suitable for a variety of finesse techniques.
Mono Capacity: 6lbs/100yds, specifying the amount of monofilament line that can be spooled onto the reel. This is a good indicator of the reel’s overall capacity for lighter lines.
Color: Gold/Black, a visually appealing color scheme that adds a touch of class to any rod setup. The aesthetics are well-executed and complement the reel’s high-performance design.
AccuGear: AccuGear machined aluminum drive gear contributes to the overall smoothness and durability of the reel. Machined gears offer greater precision and strength compared to die-cast alternatives.
C60 Carbon Skeletal Rotor: This rotor reduces weight while maintaining strength and balance. It allows for smoother rotations and more sensitivity when detecting subtle strikes.
These specifications highlight the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel‘s focus on finesse fishing and smooth, reliable performance. The lightweight design, combined with a high bearing count and machined gear, makes it a joy to use for anglers who appreciate precision and sensitivity.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel excels in providing a smooth and sensitive fishing experience. Its ability to cast light lures accurately and detect subtle strikes is outstanding. The drag system is smooth and consistent, providing confidence when fighting fish.
The reel’s primary strength lies in its smoothness and sensitivity. I can feel every bump and vibration of my lure, which significantly increases my awareness of what’s happening underwater. A weakness is the limited line capacity; larger fish on heavier cover may require a larger reel.
The reel meets and slightly exceeds expectations. Its performance rivals reels costing significantly more.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel is exceptional. The aluminum frame and sideplate provide a solid and durable feel, while the carbon rotor keeps the weight down. At just a few ounces, the reel is incredibly comfortable to use for extended periods.
The reel is very user-friendly. It has a comfortable handle and an easily adjustable drag system. There is no learning curve, and most anglers will find it intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel appears to be built to last. The high-quality materials and solid construction suggest it will withstand years of use with proper care. The anodized aluminum spool should also hold up well to abrasion and corrosion.
Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse after each use and occasional lubrication are all that’s required to keep the reel running smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel comes with a reversible aluminum handle with a Pro Power Knob. This provides a comfortable and customizable grip.
The reel is compatible with most standard spinning reel seats. This allows it to be paired with a wide variety of rods. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or modifications specifically designed for this reel, but line choice is key. Braided line backing with a fluorocarbon leader is a popular choice for added line capacity and stealth.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel
Pros
- Exceptionally smooth operation due to 11+1 premium stainless steel bearings.
- Lightweight and durable aluminum frame and sideplate.
- Sensitive C60 Carbon skeletal rotor for detecting subtle strikes.
- Smooth and consistent hybrid carbon drag system.
- Braid-ready aluminum spool for versatile line options.
Cons
- Limited line capacity for heavier line applications.
- Maximum drag of 8lbs may be insufficient for very large fish.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel?
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel is perfect for finesse anglers. Anglers who target bass, crappie, trout, and other freshwater species with light line and small lures will love this reel. It is also a good choice for anglers who appreciate smooth operation and sensitivity.
This reel might not be ideal for anglers targeting very large fish or fishing in heavy cover. Those anglers would be better suited to a larger reel with a higher drag capacity.
A must-have accessory is a quality lightweight rod to balance the reel. Also consider a braided line with a fluorocarbon leader for added line capacity and stealth.
Conclusion on Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel is an outstanding finesse spinning reel that delivers exceptional performance at a reasonable price. Its smoothness, sensitivity, and lightweight design make it a pleasure to use for long days on the water. While it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty applications, it excels in the light line arena.
The price of $139.95 is justified by the reel’s high-quality components and smooth operation. The Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel rivals the performance of more expensive reels.
I would absolutely recommend the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel to any angler looking for a high-performance finesse reel. Its smoothness, sensitivity, and durability make it a great value for the money. Upgrade your fishing experience and feel every strike with the Lew’s Custom Pro 100 Spinning Reel!