First Impressions of Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel
The ice fishing world has seen a surge in inline reels, promising better line management and presentation. The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel enters this arena aiming to deliver premium performance at a reasonable price. I was drawn to this reel by Pflueger’s reputation for quality and the inline design’s potential to eliminate line twist – a constant frustration on the ice.
My ice fishing setup was functional, but plagued by line twist issues, making subtle jig presentations difficult. The promise of the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel solving that issue, while offering smooth operation, was incredibly appealing. I considered the 13 Fishing Black Betty FreeFall Ghost and the Daiwa Kage LT Ice Reel, but Pflueger’s blend of features and value ultimately won me over.
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel arrived well-packaged. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with its lightweight feel thanks to its composite construction. The aluminum spool felt solid, and the free-spool trigger had a satisfying click. I was excited to get it on the ice, though I had slight concerns about how the composite frame would handle extreme temperatures.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel on a late-season ice fishing trip targeting bluegill and crappie on a local lake. Conditions were typical for that time of year – cold, with temperatures hovering around 20°F, and occasional light snow. The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel performed admirably from the start.
The free-spool trigger allowed for effortless one-handed operation, essential when jigging and managing the line. The magnetic brake system gave me excellent control over the lure’s descent, preventing those dreaded “free-fall” tangles. I did notice that the drag felt a little sticky at the very lowest settings, requiring some fine-tuning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full ice fishing season, the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel has become a staple in my arsenal. It has seen action in various conditions, from sub-zero temperatures to slushy late-season ice. The reel has held up well.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the composite frame, which relieved my initial concerns. Maintenance has been simple, primarily involving occasional lubrication with a cold-weather specific reel oil. Compared to my previous spinning reel setup, the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel offers significantly better line management and sensitivity.
Breaking Down the Features of Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel
Specifications
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel boasts impressive specs for its price point. The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel features a 5.0:1 gear ratio, offering a balance of speed and power. With a 6 bearing count, it promises smooth operation.
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel has a max drag of 3.5lb / 1.6kg, sufficient for most panfish and smaller game fish. The 35 inches per turn recovery allows for quick retrieves. The braid capacity is 6lbs/275yds, 8lbs/190yds, and 4lbs/380yds, offering versatility.
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel utilizes a reliable Star Drag system. Instant Anti-Reverse provides solid hooksets. Its Aluminum spool ensures durability and minimizes line memory. The Magnetic braking system is a key feature, allowing for precise drop control.
Performance & Functionality
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel excels at eliminating line twist, resulting in more natural presentations. The free-spool trigger is intuitive and allows for precise jigging motions. The magnetic brake system is effective in preventing overruns.
While the drag is smooth overall, the initial startup can be a little sticky at the lowest settings. The composite frame feels durable but might not withstand extreme abuse. Overall, the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel exceeds expectations for its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel features a lightweight composite frame that contributes to comfortable all-day use. The aluminum spool feels solid and well-machined. The handle with its EVA knob offers a comfortable and secure grip, even with gloved hands.
The reel is generally user-friendly, though some anglers may need time to adjust to the inline design. The free-spool trigger and magnetic brake system are intuitive. The spool lock prevents line tangles during transport.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel appears to be built to last for several seasons with proper care. The composite frame is surprisingly robust, and the aluminum spool should resist corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential, especially in freezing conditions. The reel is relatively simple to disassemble for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard reel components. There are limited customization options available specifically for this reel. However, the aluminum spool is compatible with various types of ice fishing lines. The EVA knob can be replaced with aftermarket options for personalized comfort.
Pros and Cons of Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel
Pros
- Eliminates line twist, allowing for more natural lure presentations.
- Smooth 5+1 bearing system provides effortless operation.
- Free-spool trigger enables precise jigging and one-handed control.
- Magnetic brake system prevents overruns and controls lure descent.
- Lightweight composite frame ensures comfortable all-day use.
Cons
- Drag can be slightly sticky at very low settings.
- Composite frame might not withstand extreme abuse compared to metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel?
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel is perfect for ice anglers targeting panfish and smaller game fish who want to eliminate line twist and improve lure presentation. It’s also a great choice for anglers who prefer the simplicity and control of an inline reel. This reel is a solid option for those upgrading from spinning reels or beginners wanting a user-friendly inline option.
Anglers targeting larger, more aggressive species like lake trout or pike might want to consider a more robust reel with a stronger drag system. Individuals who are extremely rough on their gear or fish in extremely harsh environments could benefit from a reel constructed with more metal components. A must-have accessory is a high-quality ice fishing line specifically designed for inline reels.
Conclusion on Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel
The Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel delivers impressive performance and value in the inline ice reel market. Its line twist elimination, smooth operation, and precise control make it a significant upgrade over traditional spinning reel setups. While the drag has a minor quirk and the composite frame has limitations, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
At a price of $79.95, the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel is a worthwhile investment for anglers seeking a competitive edge on the ice. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly inline reel. Step up your ice fishing game with the Pflueger President Inline Ice Reel and experience the difference!