Article by Larry Jock
Abu Garcia, long known for their round baitcaster reels, has come out with their 3rd generation of the low profile Revo Inshore saltwater reel.
The compact 2013 model features an improved X2-Craftic frame to help guard against corrosion, high performance corrosion resistant ball bearings, two types of handles with large EVA knobs, a dual anti-reverse, an improved D2 Gear Design that improves both durability and performance and finally, a brake system that utilizes 3 spring loaded and 3 non-spring loaded brake blocks. The spring loaded blocks only come into play when the spool is under high revolutions during the first part of your cast and then will disengage to give you maximum distance. The non-spring loaded blocks are active throughout your cast to provide complete control.
For a small, compact reel that weighs only 8.7 ounces, you can pack on a decent amount of braided line with specifications calling for 180 yards of 30 lb. braid. Specs also state a respectable 7.1:1 gear ratio with 29 inches of retrieval per turn.
Abu Garcia recently sent me this reel, and although I haven’t had a chance to formally test it, I can tell you that it’s compact design feels great in your hand and at only 8.7 ounces, I could see casting it all day with minimal fatigue. I did notice that in various online forums, comments were made about corrosion problems with earlier versions of this reel, but Abu Garcia has really taken notice and users now seem very happy with the results.
The Revo Inshore reel comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty and has an M.S.R.P. of $249.95, although like most reels you can definitely find them cheaper in local tackle shops.
If you are looking to pair your low profile Revo Inshore saltwater reel with a new rod, Abu Garcia recommends their new series of Volatile rods that feature their Nano Technology that provides 2.5 times the impact resistance of standard graphite rods through (get ready), “the manipulation of graphite on an atomic level.” Wow! Whatever that means, it must be good.
The Volatile rods also feature high density EVA grips, a Texas rigged hook keeper (which I love), stainless steel guides with Zirconium inserts, Fuji reel seats and a split grip design.
The series of Volatile rods come in 7 casting models and 4 spinning models, with line ratings from 8 to 12 lbs. up to 15 to 30 lbs. These rods are long, with the shortest one measuring 6’9” and the longest coming in at an even 8 feet. Although they are long, the rods are extremely light and the length could actually come in handy when trying to maneuver around outboard engines when flounder fishing in the bay.
The M.S.R.P. for these rods ranges from $99.95 to $139.95.
