Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel Review

First Impressions of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel

The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel promises high-speed performance in a compact package, targeting anglers who appreciate finesse fishing. As a seasoned gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for reels that balance lightweight design with durable construction, and this offering from Lew’s piqued my interest with its hybrid carbon drag system and high-speed gear ratio. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, especially considering my extensive experience with spinning reels in various freshwater scenarios.

My introduction to the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel came from a need to equip myself for some upcoming creek fishing trips. I was specifically looking for a lightweight reel that could handle light line and small lures with ease. I wanted something more refined than my trusty, but somewhat bulky, spinning reel, the Shimano Sienna 500.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the reel’s compact size and surprisingly light weight. The gray and red color scheme gives it a modern, aggressive look, and the graphite body felt sturdy despite its minimal weight. The handle felt solid, and the EVA pro knob was comfortable to the touch.

Compared to the Daiwa Revros LT 1000, which is a popular option in this size class, the Lew’s felt slightly more refined in its overall construction. Similarly, I considered the Pflueger President 6720, but the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel won me over with its advertised high-speed gear ratio, which I hoped would improve my lure retrieve speed. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the reel certainly looked the part, but the true test would be on the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel out for its maiden voyage to a local trout stream. The water was clear, and the fish were finicky, requiring precise casts and subtle lure presentations. I paired the reel with a light action, 6-foot rod and 4-pound test fluorocarbon line.

The reel performed admirably, casting small spinners and spoons with surprising ease. The retrieve was smooth and consistent, even when reeling against a slight current. I did hook into a couple of decent-sized trout, and the drag system performed well, allowing me to play the fish without fear of line breakage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel has held up remarkably well. I’ve fished it in both clear and slightly murky water, and it continues to perform smoothly. I’ve also used it on a couple of occasions targeting panfish in a local pond.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear, though I am careful to rinse it off with fresh water after each use. Maintenance is straightforward; a few drops of reel oil on the moving parts keeps everything running smoothly. The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel outperforms the older Shakespeare spinning reel I was using for panfish prior to getting the Lew’s. It’s a substantial improvement in terms of smoothness and overall feel.

Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel

Specifications

• Reel Type: Spinning. This indicates its suitability for anglers who prefer spinning techniques for finesse presentations.
• Water Type: Freshwater. Designed for use in lakes, rivers, and streams, not saltwater environments.
• Gear Ratio: 5.0:1. This gear ratio offers a balance between retrieve speed and power.
• Bearing Count: 8+1. The 8 bearings provide smooth operation, while the 1-way clutch bearing ensures solid hooksets.
• Reel Size: 75. This ultra-light size is ideal for light line and small lures, targeting panfish, trout, and other smaller species.
• Max Drag: 8 lbs. Sufficient drag for handling most panfish and trout, as well as smaller bass.
• Recovery: 22 in per turn. Line recovery rate is ample for most finesse fishing techniques, allowing for quick lure adjustments.
• Color: Gray/Red. The color provides a modern, sporty aesthetic.

These specifications make the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel a specialized tool for light tackle anglers. The lightweight design and smooth operation are crucial for detecting subtle strikes and presenting lures effectively.

Performance & Functionality

The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel excels in its intended role: finesse fishing. The smooth retrieve and responsive drag system make it a joy to use when targeting smaller species. The high-speed gear ratio allows for quick lure retrieves and adjustments, which is especially useful when fishing fast-moving water.

The reel’s primary strength is its smooth operation, thanks to the 8+1 bearing system. A slight weakness might be the 8 lb max drag, which may not be sufficient for larger fish in heavier cover, but this is not the reel’s intended purpose. It meets my expectations for a lightweight, finesse-oriented spinning reel.

Design & Ergonomics

The graphite body and skeletal C40 carbon rotor contribute to the reel’s lightweight feel. This reduces fatigue during long days on the water. The folding screw-in machined aluminum handle with EVA pro knob is comfortable to grip, even when wet.

The reel feels well-balanced on a light action rod, and there’s no noticeable learning curve; it’s intuitive to use right out of the box. Overall, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel is an ergonomic and well-designed piece of fishing tackle.

Durability & Maintenance

While it’s too early to make definitive claims about long-term durability, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel appears to be well-built. The graphite body is resistant to scratches and dings, and the aluminum spool should hold up well to repeated use. Regular cleaning and lubrication should ensure years of reliable performance.

Maintenance is simple; just rinse with fresh water and apply a few drops of reel oil periodically. No specialized tools are required for basic maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the standard components. There are no real customization options for this specific model. Its functionality is as-is from the factory.

It’s compatible with most standard spinning rods and fishing lines designed for light tackle applications. This makes it easy to pair with existing gear.

Pros and Cons of Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel

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Who Should Buy Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel?

The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel is perfect for anglers who primarily target panfish, trout, and other smaller species in freshwater environments. It is ideal for those who appreciate finesse fishing techniques and require a lightweight reel with a smooth drag system. This reel is a great choice for anglers fishing small streams, ponds, and creeks.

Anglers who primarily target larger species, such as bass or catfish, or those who frequently fish in saltwater should skip this product. They would be better served by a reel with higher drag capacity and corrosion resistance. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality, light action spinning rod to maximize the reel’s performance and sensitivity.

Conclusion on Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel

The Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel is a well-designed and functional spinning reel that excels in light tackle applications. Its smooth operation, lightweight design, and high-speed gear ratio make it a joy to use when targeting smaller species. The price is justified by the reel’s performance and build quality.

I would personally recommend this reel to any angler looking for a dedicated finesse fishing reel for freshwater use. If you are looking for a lightweight, smooth, and reliable spinning reel for panfish, trout, or other smaller species, the Lew’s Speed Spin CRX 75 Spinning Reel is an excellent choice. Go out there and experience the finesse!