1. Drag output: Choose models that will comfortably handle the line class you will be using, based on 1/3 of the breaking test of the line you choose. AVET Reels have an adjustable strike position setting. In the strike position you want to set the drag to 1/3 of the weakest line in your rig. Typically anglers will fill the reel with braided spectra line and use a monofilament leader or top-shot that is a lighter line class than the braided backing. The lighter leader is what you want to set the strike position to. Using the Max. Drag at Strike ratings in the spec. tables for each model, narrow your choices down to models that are capable of drag output at strike within the range of 1/3 of your lightest line test.

2. Line Capacity: Once you have chosen your line class and drag capability, narrow down your choices to reels that will hold a sufficient amount of your line, using the line capacity columns in the spec tables. If you will be targeting large, long running fish, or deep dropping, you will want a reel that will have a large line capacity. If you will be fishing shallow, casting frequently, casting extremely light baits, or the primary target species that are relatively small or will not be running long distances, then narrow your choices down to smaller, lighter reels with slightly less line capacity. The smaller, lighter, more agile reels are easier to cast and handle. Less line capacity also means lighter spool mass, which equates to less start up inertia, a plus when casting light baits. This is why we have “J” (jig/narrow spool) and “L” (large/wide spool) models in each series ie: “MXJ” (narrow) and “MXL”(wide).

3. Retrieve speed: Choose the best retrieve speed for the right balance of power to speed to fit your application. Look at the “inches per crank” column on the spec table. Each series of Avet reels (SX-HX) offer a variety of different gear ratios, from single speed to 2-speed. The gear ratio numbers themselves really don’t mean much without including the diameter of the spool into the equation. The spool diameter is actually a “3rd gear” in the chain that determines the actual inches of line retrieved for every turn of the handle. For example: the high 6:1 gear in our small SX and the 6:1 gear in our larger LX are the same gear ratio, 6 rotations of the spool for every 1 rotation of the handle. Because of the smaller spool diameter of the SX it will have fewer inches per crank on the retrieve (36″) vs. the larger diameter LX (46″). The lower the inches per crank, the more “winch” power the reel will have on the retrieve. The higher inches per crank will have slightly less “winch power” but faster speed. Consider the fishing technique and conditions you will primarily be using the reel for. Higher retrieve speed is useful for casting and retrieving speed sensitive swimming jigs, repeated deep drop jigging, or clearing multiple trolled lines quickly when a fish is hooked. The lower retrieve speed and extra “winch power” is useful when battling large aggressive fish under high drag pressure, live bait or chunk bait applications where fast, repeated casting and retrieving isn’t the norm, or long-range/sport boat “rail rod” applications where cranking power is crucial. Many instances require a broader range of power to speed that cannot be accomplished with a single speed and gear ratio. This is where an Avet 2-speed may be the reel of choice, offering a choice between power and speed in a single reel. Many large, hard fighting species of fish and conditions require a fast and aggressive cast and retrieve lure presentation, but need a powerful retrieve to fight the fish once its hooked. Casting “wahoo bombs” for wahoo on a long range sport boat for example. 50-100 casts and quick retrieves with a slow reel before finally hooking a hard fighting beast of a fish, and your cranking hand will already be numb and worn out. And the fight has only just begun! With a 2-speed, you have the best of both, high speed for lure presentation, and a powerful low gear to fight the fish with a simple push of a button. Avet pioneered theses small, castable 2 speed lever drag reels, and every reel manufacturer around the world has followed our lead!