First Impressions of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel arrives promising a blend of speed, smoothness, and lightweight design. Coming from Lew’s, a brand known for its innovation in fishing tackle, the CRX 100 aims to deliver high performance to light tackle anglers. Its ten-bearing system, graphite body, and aluminum handle immediately caught my eye.
My usual go-to for trout and panfish is an older Shimano that’s served me well, but it’s starting to show its age, so I was specifically looking for a replacement that offered similar reliability but with a more modern feel and improved line management. I wanted a reel that could handle light braid without constant wind knots and felt smooth during retrieves. The promise of a braid-ready spool and a high-speed gear ratio were key factors in my decision.
Unboxing the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel, my initial impression was positive. The reel felt remarkably light in hand, and the graphite body seemed solid. The red accents against the gray color scheme give it a sleek, modern look. Compared to my older Shimano and a Daiwa I considered, the Lew’s felt more refined, especially with the machined aluminum handle. I was eager to get it out on the water. I was definitely excited.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel to a local lake known for its healthy population of panfish and stocked trout. I paired it with a light action 6’6″ rod and spooled it with 6lb braid. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for testing.
The first few casts were surprisingly smooth. The line came off the spool cleanly and effortlessly. The reel felt balanced and comfortable during retrieves. Even with small crankbaits, the high-speed gear ratio made it easy to maintain a consistent retrieve speed, and I landed a couple of decent bluegill without any issues. I was impressed with its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny afternoons to drizzly mornings, and it hasn’t skipped a beat. The drag has remained consistent, even when battling larger trout.
So far, there are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. I’ve made sure to rinse it with freshwater after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of reel oil to the moving parts. Cleaning the reel is a simple task. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, providing a smoother and more enjoyable fishing experience than my older reels.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lew’s.
- Reel Type: Spinning.
- Water Type: Freshwater.
- Gear Ratio: 5.1:1.
- Bearing Count: 9+1.
- Reel Size: 100.
- Max Drag: 10 lbs.
- Recovery: 24 in per turn.
- Mono Capacity: 6lbs/90yds.
- Color: Gray/Red.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the reel’s performance and usability. The high-speed gear ratio allows for quicker retrieves, which is essential when fishing for fast-moving species or using techniques that require constant lure action. The 10-bearing system ensures smooth operation, reducing friction and increasing sensitivity.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel excels in its intended role as a light tackle reel. The drag system is smooth and reliable, providing consistent pressure when fighting fish. The retrieval rate of 24 inches per turn is more than adequate for most panfish and trout applications.
The reel’s strength lies in its smoothness and lightweight design. However, its relatively small line capacity may be a limitation for anglers targeting larger species or fishing in areas with heavy cover. It definitely exceeds expectations for the light tackle applications for which it is designed.
Design & Ergonomics
The graphite body and skeletal C40 carbon rotor contribute to the reel’s lightweight feel, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The folding screw-in machined aluminum handle with EVA pro knob is a nice touch, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The overall design is well-thought-out and aesthetically pleasing.
The reel is incredibly user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. Even novice anglers will be able to pick it up and start fishing with minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel appears to be well-built and durable, thanks to its quality materials and construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for several seasons.
Maintaining the reel is straightforward. Regular rinsing and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel does not come with many accessories, but the braid-ready aluminum spool is a significant advantage. It allows anglers to use braid without the need for backing.
There are no specific customization options for this reel, but it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket line and leader options.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel
Pros
- Incredibly smooth operation due to the 10-bearing system.
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day fishing.
- High-speed gear ratio for quick retrieves and effective lure presentation.
- Braid-ready aluminum spool eliminates the need for backing.
- Reliable drag system for consistent performance.
Cons
- Limited line capacity may not be suitable for larger species or heavy cover.
- Graphite body, while lightweight, may not be as durable as a full-metal construction.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel?
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel is perfect for anglers who primarily target panfish, trout, and other small species in freshwater environments. It is an excellent choice for those who value smoothness, lightweight design, and ease of use.
This reel may not be the best option for anglers targeting larger game fish or fishing in heavy cover. They may need a reel with more line capacity and a more robust drag system. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality fishing line, preferably a braided line around 6-8lb test, to maximize the reel’s performance and sensitivity.
Conclusion on Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel
The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel is a fantastic reel for light tackle applications. Its smoothness, lightweight design, and high-speed gear ratio make it a pleasure to use.
At $79.95, the price is justified, considering the reel’s performance and features. I would definitely recommend it to any angler looking for a high-quality spinning reel for panfish and trout fishing. If you’re after a smooth, lightweight, and reliable reel for light tackle fishing, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 100 Spinning Reel is definitely worth checking out.