First Impressions of Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel immediately catches the eye with its sleek gold and black finish, hinting at the power and precision within. Lew’s has a reputation for quality, and the Custom Pro line aims to deliver high-performance features to serious anglers. The promise of smooth operation, a robust drag system, and durable construction make this reel a contender for handling a variety of freshwater species.
I needed a spinning reel that could handle both finesse presentations for finicky bass and the occasional run-in with larger catfish in my local river. My old reel lacked the drag power to confidently land those bigger fish. I wanted a reel that was both smooth and strong.
Upon unboxing, the Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel feels solid and well-balanced. The aluminum body inspires confidence. The handle turns with a silky smoothness, suggesting a finely tuned gear system.
Compared to my older Pflueger President and a Shimano Sahara, the Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel offers a noticeable step up in perceived quality. The Pflueger is lighter, but feels less substantial. The Shimano is known for reliability, but the Lew’s reel seems to offer a better balance of features and value.
My initial impression is one of excitement. The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel seems like it could be the perfect all-around spinning reel for my freshwater adventures. I am eager to get it on the water and test its capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
I spooled the Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel with 30-pound braid and headed to my local river, targeting bass and catfish. The conditions were partly cloudy with a slight breeze. I primarily used it for throwing various crankbaits and swimbaits.
The reel performed flawlessly right out of the gate. Casting was smooth and effortless. The line came off the spool cleanly and the retrieve was remarkably consistent.
One surprise was how well the reel handled larger fish. I hooked into a feisty three-pound channel catfish. The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel‘s drag system handled the runs with ease.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It has accompanied me on numerous fishing trips in various conditions. This included everything from sunny summer days to drizzly autumn mornings.
The reel has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The finish still looks great, and the mechanics remain as smooth as day one.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use and occasional lubrication are all it takes to keep it running smoothly. The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel definitely outperforms my previous reels in terms of smoothness and drag power.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel
Specifications
- The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel is a size 400 spinning reel, making it versatile for a variety of freshwater species. This size is ideal for bass, walleye, pike, and even smaller catfish.
- It features a 6.2:1 gear ratio, providing a good balance of speed and power for retrieving lures and fighting fish. A higher gear ratio allows for faster retrieves and better hooksets.
- The reel boasts an 11-bearing system (10+1), contributing to its incredibly smooth operation. This ensures smooth casts and retrieves.
- It has a max drag of 24 lbs, providing ample power to handle hard-fighting fish. This is a very important specification for anglers targeting larger species.
- The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel retrieves 34 inches of line per turn. This is an efficient rate that helps anglers cover water quickly.
- The mono capacity is 12lbs/190yds, while the braid capacity is suitable for various line strengths. The braid-ready spool is a great feature for modern anglers.
- The reel features an aluminum body and sideplate for lightweight durability. This provides a rigid frame that protects the internal components.
- Its C60 Carbon skeletal rotor provides exceptional balance and lightweight performance. This reduces overall weight while maintaining strength.
- The reversible aluminum handle with Pro Power Knob allows for customized comfort. Anglers can adjust the handle to their preferred side.
- The reel’s gold and black color scheme gives it a sleek and professional look. This aesthetic adds to the overall appeal of the reel.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel performs exceptionally well. Its smooth operation and powerful drag system make it a joy to use.
The reel casts lures accurately and effortlessly. The retrieve is consistent and smooth, even under load.
One minor weakness might be its weight compared to some ultralight reels. However, this weight contributes to its overall sturdiness. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a reel in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used feel premium and the reel is well-balanced in hand.
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel is user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable aluminum body and sideplate suggest a long lifespan. The reel feels solid and well-constructed.
Maintenance is straightforward. The reel is easy to clean and lubricate.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel comes with a reversible handle and a comfortable Pro Power Knob. It can be customized by swapping out the handle knob for different styles.
The braid-ready spool is compatible with a wide range of braided lines. The reel will also work with most monofilament and fluorocarbon lines.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel
Pros
- Incredibly smooth operation thanks to the 11-bearing system.
- Powerful and reliable drag system capable of handling larger fish.
- Durable aluminum body and sideplate provide long-lasting performance.
- Braid-ready spool compatible with a variety of line types.
- Comfortable Pro Power Knob and reversible handle for customized use.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some ultralight spinning reels.
- The gold and black color scheme might not appeal to all anglers.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel?
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel is perfect for freshwater anglers targeting bass, walleye, pike, and smaller catfish. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, powerful, and reliable reel. Pro anglers and serious weekend warriors alike will find this reel to be a valuable addition to their arsenal.
Anglers looking for an ultralight reel for finesse presentations might want to consider other options. Those who prefer a simpler reel without advanced features may also find this reel to be overkill.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality braided line to maximize casting distance and sensitivity. Consider a reel cover to protect the finish during storage and transport.
Conclusion on Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel is a top-performing reel that delivers exceptional value for its price. It offers a smooth, powerful, and reliable experience.
The price is justified by the high-quality components and superior performance. The reel provides features typically found on much more expensive models.
I would definitely recommend the Lew’s Custom Pro 400 Spinning Reel to any angler looking for a versatile and dependable spinning reel. Upgrade your fishing game today and experience the Lew’s difference!