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Fall 2001 Reel Reviews
Lamson Velocity 2
When we opened the package from Lamson, and saw the Velocity reel for the first time, our initial reaction was, "Wow, this is a sharp looking large-arbor!". Then we began to wonder how it would perform on the stream. After one trip, we wondered no more. This reel's drag is incredibly smooth, and consistent, with a nice soft set. The model tested was for a 6-weight line, and it held all the line plus plenty of backing, as promised. At 5 oz., the reel is not over-bearing, and yet is still large enough to make retrieve pleasant. We were a bit concerned at first with the O-ring locking seal for the spool, as we were used to more traditional manual release mechanisms and was concerned about the spool popping out too easily. This was not the case however, nor is the spool very hard to pull apart when needed. The reel came as stock left-hand retrieve, but switches to right of course for you traditionalists. At less than $200.00 this is an excellent quality reel for the seasoned angler looking for high-quality at a mid-price range. We would definitely recommend the Lamson Velocity.
| Model | Diameter | Width | Weight | Rod Wt. | Line Capacity | Reel Cost |
| VELOCITY 1 | 2.85" | 1.00" | 3.75 oz | 1,2.3 | WF3 75 yds 12# | $190 |
| VELOCITY 1.5 | 3.00" | 1.05" | 4.00 oz | 4,5 | WF4 100 yds 20# | $195 |
| VELOCITY 2 | 3.17" | 1.05" | 5.00 oz | 5,6 | WF6 100 yds 20# | $200 |
| VELOCITY 3 | 3.50" | 1.20" | 6.50 oz | 7,8 | WF7 150 yds 20# | $205 |
Hardy Viscount Large Arbor
The Hardy Viscount Large Arbor is a big reel. The width is a bit large for our tastes, but weight was not a big factor as the size did not seem to increase the weight. The plus side of the large size is that it has exceptional line capacity. The model tested was a 9/10. This reel comes with a nice smooth disc-drag, and that familiar Hardy sound, a highly audible drag release and retrieve. For those who like a reel that is a little more silent, the reel has a silent-mode that reduces the audible sound to none. Left to right hand retrieve required removing small screws and flipping a small mechanical piece, but all in all was not too difficult. We liked the sturdy feel of this reel, and would recommend it for larger line-weight rods. Although not completely saltwater-proof, this anodized reel is more than adequate for use on the ocean. Hardy enthusiasts will appreciate the craftsmanship and touch of class that this reel brings to the progressively popular large-arbor genre, after all, Hardy invented the large arbor reel.
| Line | Diameter | Weight | Capactiy | Cost |
| #3/4 | 3 1/8" | 5 3/4 oz | WF4 + 60 yds | $220 |
| #5/6 | 3 3/8" | 6 oz | WF6 + 60 yds | $225 |
| #7/8 | 3 5/8" | 6 1/4 oz | WF8 + 50 yds | $235 |
| #9/10 | 3 7/8" | 9 oz | WF9 + 120 yds | $250 |
| #10/11 | 4 1/8" | 9 1/2 oz | WF10 + 150 yds | $260 |
STH MrPop
The STH MrPop cassette reel was on the low-end of the reels we have tested. The model tested was the MrPop 3. This reel has the capability to switch lines without requiring expensive extra spools, and comes with an extra cassette. This can be handy in conditions where switching from a sinking to floating line is needed, but the access to an extra reel or rod is not possible. The reel is constructed sturdily, and the plastic cassette is housed well and protected. Although not impressive or smooth, the drag is adequate for average use…though you’re going to want to go into a higher range of reels for a more durable and trusted drag if your fishing for atlantic salmon in Canada, or Trophy stripers or blues. We'd recommend the MrPop to beginners who are looking to upgrade their current click and pawl reels and want a simple yet effective drag, and the flexibility of changing line types/weights without purchasing more equipment.
| Model | Line Weight | Weight | Dia | Reel Cost |
| 1.5 | 4,5,6 | 5.1oz | 3" | $69.95 |
| 2 | 6,7,8 | 5.6oz | 3.3" | $69.95 |
| 3 | 8,9,10 | 6.1oz | 3.4" | $69.95 |
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