"Daytime" Tuna Chunk Reel....???

[Duffman]

Putting together a lighter tuna chunk setup. That after daybreak, go light as possible rig, full sun, in order to get a bite kinda combo. Will be used on the party boats in the fall but will keep it on my own ride for that possible shot at a shark in the bunker pods in the spring/summer.

Already have the rod, which I just re-wrapped. Looking for ideas on the reel. Dont mind spending the $ on a reel but it doesnt make sense doing that for a setup I may or may not use every year or so.

Thinking Penn Sen 4/0...Shimano TLD 25....???

[MVP]

TLD 25 is not a bad choice. I would just some braid backing to give you some extra line capacity

[Capt. Lou]

I concur with MVP on the TLD being a decent choice , that being said Penn Fathom 30 would also work out , However when fish are leader shy & picky the rod choice is extremely important . Incorrect taper or power will not allow u to pressure a tuna heavily w/o popping 30/ 40# bite leader !
The reel is important but mismatched u can lose fish going light !

[Pennsy Guy]

How light do you want to go? I have an Avet LX6 with 150yd 40# braid backing & this year 30# mono top shot--180yd. Caught some big 60-90# tuna on it...Also, an Avet JX6/3(2 speed) with 40# braid & this year 40# 200yd top shot. Last year dropped a yellow 100#+ 30' from boat due to line fatigue--after 40 minutes with 30# mono. With the lighter line I found the 2-speeds are a GREAT help--new last year and it's much easier, at least for me. I did get a 70# YFT with it. I mostly flat-line with them-no more than 1/2 oz.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Originally Posted by Pennsy Guy

How light do you want to go? I have an Avet LX6 with 150yd 40# braid backing & this year 30# mono top shot--180yd. Caught some big 60-90# tuna on it...Also, an Avet JX6/3(2 speed) with 40# braid & this year 40# 200yd top shot. Last year dropped a yellow 100#+ 30' from boat due to line fatigue--after 40 minutes with 30# mono. With the lighter line I found the 2-speeds are a GREAT help--new last year and it's much easier, at least for me. I did get a 70# YFT with it. I mostly flat-line with them-no more than 1/2 oz.

I'm with Dan on this. I think you are much better off with a smaller, lighter less bulky reel with a decent drag if you are going to be working the Rod and chunking. The only way you are going to get there is with a one piece aluminum frame like the Avets or others. The TLD is a great reel but very bulky which makes it clumsy to use IMO.

I have a few Avet LXs same as Dan and although they can be used for Tuna, I also use them for trolling Stripers. 2 speeds could also be used for Jigging.

The LXs start at $250 so not much more then the TLDs.

[Jigman13]

Talica 16 II or 20 II. Hollow core and mono top shot. You'll be money...

[Garone Custom Rods]

I am looking for a similar reel as well. I am curious to check out a new Average G2 probably the JX or maybe even MXL size

[Capt. Lou]

If ur looking for the ultimate reel Saltiga 30 T , I've had a pair of these for years many tuna taken on them up to 150# LB's . U can run on a 30 to 50# Rods no issue .
No sure if this model still made ?

[CancunPete]

Duff man, I will let you try my Avet LX 2 speed Raptor .....stop in the shop and I will let you borrow it for your tuna trip.....if you like it ......Well you know the rest.....Should be back Mid March. I have been using it for everything from trolling to bottom fishing. .....Can't beat this deal....Pete

[Duffman]

Originally Posted by CancunPete

Duff man, I will let you try my Avet LX 2 speed Raptor .....stop in the shop and I will let you borrow it for your tuna trip.....if you like it ......Well you know the rest.....Should be back Mid March. I have been using it for everything from trolling to bottom fishing. .....Can't beat this deal....Pete

Pete thank you!!!! When your back I'll bring my rod in and see how the reel sits on it.

Once again thanks boys!!!! Always good info/advice here.