Looking for reel suggestions

[Aanderson81]

I am looking to go with a group to do megalodon tooth diving in NC and was told by the person organizing the trip that a reel is required for the dive to clip onto the anchor line. Currently I only have a finger spool that I occasionally use for an SMB and was looking for recommendations on a reel. The LDS was recommending a $200 reel for this purpose and while I am sure its a great reel, it sounds a bit excessive for my use. I would like something that is a good value. I dont see myself getting into tech or cave diving. This is about the extent of the use for the reel.

 

[stuartv]

I have one of these and really like it:

AP Pocket Reel | AP Diving

I also have one of these and really it it, too. Especially the soft handle:

CR-2 Manta Reel 250ft

However, one of these would probably be your best value:

Dive Rite Classic Safety Reel
or
DGX Deco Reel, X-Large S/S Snap

 

[rhwestfall]

LM....


(Light Monkey)

<$150 for a 200' reel....

 

[Bubblesong]

Aanderson81, can you say what brand tge LDS was recommending? For comparison.
From what I have read, Manta Reel brand is the one most people like, but I don't know what model.

 

[Aanderson81]

Aanderson81, can you say what brand tge LDS was recommending? For comparison.
From what I have read, Manta Reel brand is the one most people like, but I don't know what model.

It was one of the manta reels, but once he mentioned the north of $200 list price and that he can get me a deal on it for the ~$180 range i honestly stopped paying attention. I am sure its a great reel, but a tech diver i am not. I dont mind paying for quality equipment, but I want to pay for the right equipment. I guess the reason that he recommends it for these dives is that they dont tend to birds nest and when you only have a few minutes of bottom time that is important. So I see the point there, but if I can get the same functionality (aka good spooling without tangling) at half the price without a few bells and whistles I would be quite happy.

 

[rhwestfall]

I guess KT is off the list then?

 

[Aanderson81]

I guess KT is off the list then?

I completely understand that for certain circumstances a top of the line tool is needed. There are plenty of circumstances in my job and life where I pay a premium for a product because I've learned that in the long run the premium is well worth while for time saved or longevity. However unless I am rather wrong here (I think it may have happened once or twice) I dont see this being the case. There is quite a range of products between the $11 line spool and the $350 tech reel. I am not opposed to spending for the right tool, but I would like to do my research first before even considering something in the $150+ price range.

 

[Tug]

For a simple reel I like either a Halcyon/ Light Monkey (whatever you can get cheaper) reel or a Manta reel. I don't really like the ones with the spring handle but the CR-2 and Nano + are great little reels.

For tying off to the anchor line, I'll use either one of these reels depending on my plan for the dive.

 

[scubadada]

I use a Manta Jr for my dive flag Junior Standard Reel 250ft Blue Body

I use a Dive Rite Classic Safety Reel as per @stuartv for general utility use, this would likely be a good choice for your intended purpose

I also use a finger spool for my dSMB

 

[SailNaked]

I am thinking that this spool is because they expect to stir up the mud looking for the prize. and that maybe there will be current and that a simple spool without a lock and some thought about how to use it is not enough. keep in mind that I do not value a tooth, no matter how old over safety. and that I would be confident using a finger spool for $25. and I may not come back with a tooth, but I would certainly come back. btw if the current is significant, then you need a heavier line, and bigger spool.