13 Concept A, C or E?

[Specialkleen]

Been eyeing off the 13 Concept line for a while for medium Mangrove Jack, lighter Barramundi (3-6kg stick with 10lb line) work matched to an Omen or Envy of similar. Does anyone own any of these or have extended exposure to these lines of reels and can share a detailed opinion on their experiences both positively and negative. I have only read nothing but positive reviews and most of them are bass fisherman in the United States which only have freshwater exposure. I understand that these reels claim they are saltwater-ready but I want to know to what degree. I currently own a Curado 200G6 which shits me to no end and want something lighter, with more grunt that I can comfortably service myself (as I do with all of my gear). I understand 10kgs of drag is excessive for 10lb line but it's nice to know I can tussle with the big boys.

In short, should I be considering these reels for the type of fishing I'm planning on doing, or should I just look at a newer Shimano (Curado I or JDM Chronarch Ci4+)?

Chances are I'll get the Concept A model here from Australia or the Concept C from the United States if I should go down this path (also opinions on buying reels overseas - particularly from small brands)?

Did you read the review's from Tackle Tour?

http://tackletour.com/review13fishingconcepta.html

[Specialkleen]

You betcha! And I want to see if the issues they have faced are also that of others to the point of making the reel unsatisfactory to use. I don't want my heard-earned turning into another Curado G6.

Originally Posted by Specialkleen

I don't want my hard-earned turning into another Curado G6.

The G series weren't that bad, they were a interim model and still perform but had nothing of the cult following that the old one did. I am selling my G7 for the fact that it doesnt get used as much as I'd like or I can afford, however if I were to 'feel like it' I could add maybe replace all the OEM bearings, and add some more (4) in the handles and some more here and there and it'd be a proper Curado. Already its better than standard with the AR assist pawl that I installed - the standard drag has been improved by far with one mod.

The new Curado is most likely exactly the same as the JDM Chronarch Ci4+ just with some bearings removed or a paint scheme or whatever that Shimano do best...

Small startup companies most likely have redesigned this from another platform reel, it is what it is I guess.

[CJ BRIBIE]

I've had a brief play with a concept E, it felt quite solid and and strong, no noticeable play in the handle, as smooth as chronarch or zillion when new but no idea how long it would remain that way. With something like 11kg of drag and a whole heap of bearings it sounds like it has the goods.

[Specialkleen]

I haven't enjoyed my time with my Curado 200G6 - Close to $120 in repairs in only a year and a bit and I have used it very little. That's beside the point.

If we were to go purely from specifications, the comparison would suggest that the 13 fishing Concept A should pull trumps over the new Curado in most facets (weight, drag type/pressure, bearings and types of bearings, manufacturer location (I think Korea trumps Malaysia) and price..)

http://www.tackletour.com/previewshimanocuradoilab.html
http://www.tackletour.com/review13fishingconcepta.html

However this matters little when real world application and fundamental reputation of the gear is what generally determines the success of a reel on another.

[dolivedunk]

I love the concept reels. I have multiple C models and an E. To be honest id buy the C over the E. The E is great but probably not worth the extra coin over the C. The C is a great reel. Outcasts every other baitcast I've owned. Cores, T3s and tatulas.

[dolivedunk]

I've also submerged mine in salt to over and over again at the end of fishing sessions and no sign of corrosion other than the bearings which you would expect.

[Specialkleen]

Mmm dolive. This is realistically what I've wanted to hear. So the Concept C would be better than the new Curado etc? Now in terms of parts - are they fairly easy to source? (Can I ring up, specify which part I need and order it online). Also would it be unwise to buy the Concept C from the States (for $100 less)?

[dolivedunk]

Hey mate.
I feel they are a better reel than the curado.
Parts are easy, just ring up the Australian office and order them.
Once you factor in exchange rate and shipping it's not $100 less. More like $50. For that price I'd support the local guys.

PS. Just so we are clear. I work for them in Australia.

[Specialkleen]

Yeah, I already knew that dolive and was glad you had commented. Whilst I will consistently support the local guys (I have actually never bought anything overseas before), I just so happen to be heading Overseas in 2 weeks time and can therefore get it at the USD price, which in turn means I can get the Concept C as opposed to the Concept A without batting too much of an eyelid.

I also will be waiting for November for their drop of more Envy models to fit my criteria but the Omen will be used in the meantime..

[gtxrally]

Hey Mate,
just so we're clear I am looked after by 13 Australia so some will say i am biased.
However i am a bream fisho and do not use bait casters very often.

I have just come back from showing the A and C reels to a very reputable Victorian shop and someone i believe knows his stuff and I value his opinion.

He was blown away with the feel, and more the design of these reels, he was complementary on the line braking system (tackle tour were not so as they did not like the idea as they think it is a little impractical) which is housed under the side plate. He fought it was one of the better ideas in BC he seen in a while.

he also made comment on how nice it was to see bigger handles on small bait caster and that it really improved the way it felt.

Would be more than happy to pass on his details if you want an un affiliated opinion. Let me know.
Cheers Dale.

[Specialkleen]

That should be quite alright, I think I have made up my mind. I'll grab a Concept C when I'm in the States as I can source the parts for it locally if it plays up.

[sam durn]

These reels should be recommended for freshwater only imo. Check the corrosion out. Defs not on the same level as daiwa/shimano, its a pitty cause they are associated with such a reputable company nomad which definately only use the best for gt fishing. Warranty doesnt cover corrosion either so no refund is being persued, just thought id share a honest opinion from someone who doesnt get sent them free of charge.

[Specialkleen]

Ah crap mate, that doesn't look fun. The only negative I have found about this reel so far..