[bariutt]

I am looking for a large arbor salt water reel to fit on an 11 wt rod. My budget is around $250. Any advice as to best makes and models to shop for?

[bonefish41]

Originally Posted by bariutt

I am looking for a large arbor salt water reel to fit on an 11 wt rod. My budget is around $250. Any advice as to best makes and models to shop for?

As all in forum know, I do not fish chinese. So here is my retail suggestion in your price range for a USA machined bar stock reel Teton(not Tioga) LA 12 269.00 ; LA 11 239.00 but check ebay for less and various on line shops for sales. I have fished the LA 12 on tarpon though it is not my go too reel...check the sales for old model Ross Big Game and check fly shops for old inventory English made Orvis Mach V or VI they sell them for same price as chinese orvis 249.00 and on sale even less make check the reel foot it will say made in england...the Teton, Ross BG and Mach in 4.00 to 4.75 spool diameter are the lightest in their respective sizes since they are light you can get reel spool diameter above 4.25 for an 11 wt check fly shops for used reels in good shape..e.g. Old abel big game 4 or 4N round hole reels, andTibors
If you find an old model abel round hole big game in 4 or 4N for 300 or less in good shape buy it likewise for old model tibor ripetide... these they will last a lifetime of hard use they are not the lightest as those above but they can take it...they are worth looking for in the used market particularly if you can see before you buy...

[BigCliff]

I'd hunt for a Ross Canyon (5 or 6, not sure which is ideal for an 11wt) They were discontinued last year, so you might be able to find one at the price you're after.

[bonefish41]

Originally Posted by BigCliff

I'd hunt for a Ross Canyon (5 or 6, not sure which is ideal for an 11wt) They were discontinued last year, so you might be able to find one at the price you're after.

I agree with clifford...I regularly fish a Ross Big Game 8 on my 12 wt for tarpon which is really a 13 wt reel...so a 7 or 6 ross bg would be great if you can find one under 300 and you cannot find a good used olde abelbig game round hole 4 or 4N for 300 or less