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Daiwa Sol 3 vs Shimano Vanford

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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Quiltro Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Daiwa Sol 3 vs Shimano Vanford
    Posted: 12 May 2021 at 9:04am
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Hey guys, I need to get some guidance on the tough election of getting a new reel and make the most of my hard earned pennies. 

Context: I am a kayaker and therefore this new reel will be used 99% of the time on a kayak, not a boat (if that makes any difference in the approach of your answer). 

I currently have a shimano backbone slow jig rod paired to a Penn spinfisher VI 2500 which i love, but the long butt on the rod and little space i have on my pedal kayak to do all those magic twitches enticing our loved fishies, I have developed a nasty tendinitis on my wrist (I also like to do long sessions - 6/8 hours) as a result of my bad posture to work the rod. 

So I decided to get a dedicated softbait rod (shorter butt) so it doesn't protrude my elbow. And I did, got an Okuma NanoMatrix. While on the shop I decided to get a second reel (because... why not), sadly the Spinfisher vi 2500 is discontinued and doesn't seem to be available anywhere, I was offered the 3500 version, but then these reels are a lot heavier than all the other brands (maybe because of the waterproofing?). 

On the other hand all the other reels in the $200/250 bracket seem very bad quality in relation to the Penns, so now I went down the rabbit hole of 'higher end' reels. 

I was offered a Daiwa Sol III 4000 (which is the same size than my spinfisher 2500 (Shocked), with almost double the drag (6.7 vs 12kg), and also 100 grams lighter than the former) for $350. I understand this is an older reel (2017 - older tech) but It is sooo light and smooth than it almost makes me weary that this little thing will break pulling a piper! LOL - also very little reviews online about this specific model

On the other hand I heard that Shimano has brough the Vanford ($370) line which seem to be as light and strong as the daiwa, but also 'waterproof' for only $20 more of the Daiwa. 

Last but no least, I wonder if I bite the bullet and go all the way and go Shimano Vanquish ($700) or Daiwa Certate ($800)? remember I only want something in the 2000/4000 (max) - perhaps 3000 is ideal. - have not tried or seen neither the vanquish or certate in real life only youtube.

My main concern is weight and waterproofing (or similar, essentially something that wont die when I capsize or splash it with saltwater).

thoughts? 
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Almo1960 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 11:15am
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Hi Quiltro, I am biased as you know.
My 2cents worth would be to take your rod to a store that sells both, fit them, wind them and make your choice on feel. (If you have that available) Both are great reels.
I would assume on a kayak waterproofing would be important and maybe stepping up to a 4000 might be helpful but at the same time might not be a good balance for your rod. You won’t know until you try these things.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 1:54pm
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If you are going to get a kayak reel this one has gone four years with one service

https://www.marine-deals.co.nz/penn-reel/penn-clash-2500-spinning-reel

Drag is superb.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Almo1960 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 2:07pm
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Hi Muppet, what’s your opinion on the Penn SSVI. I was told the 90mile surfcasters swear by them.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 2:43pm
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https://www.marine-deals.co.nz/penn-reel/penn-spinfisher-vi-2500-spinning-reel

This one?
Got it and yes excellent reels.

But for the price the Clash is better value.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Quiltro Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 3:24pm
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Hi Muppet and Almo1960, thanks for the reply guys. 

I do own a Spinfisher VI 2500 which i LOVE! - is solid, small, tough, and smooth and waterproof. BUT, they are discontinued and are not available to purchase anymore. 

I have been offered a 3500 and upwards in lieu but they are way to heavy (over 400grams + rod) to have in hand for 6/8 hours straight working the softies. 

So out of the rest of manufacturers that have a 'light takle' offering, Abu, Penn, Shimano, Daiwa, Okuma, etc I had it nailed to a Daiwa Sol and a shimano Vanford. 

I just got back from Marine deals where I was able to try the following:

- Shimano Vanford 3000
- Daiwa Sol 3 3000
- Shimano Vanquish 3000
- Penn Battle III 3000
- Penn Slammer III 3500
- Abu Garcia Roxani 3000

what I found is that, the Penn and Abu though not 'heavy' at all, are heavier than the 2 shimanos and the daiwa. 

Between the Shimanos, I couldn't tell the difference to be honest to justify the 330 price dollar difference ($370 Vanford - $699 vanquish). Yes I understand they have different materials and all, but in terms of weight, handling, sounds, etc the difference is certainly not much. 

The Daiwa felt the smoother and quieter of all of the above. 

The Penn Slammer III 3500 is a 'beast' - tough, solid, etc perhaps a bit too much for my taste. 

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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Almo1960 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 3:29pm
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Marine Deals appear to have the 2500 & the 3500
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 3:30pm
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It’s up to you, for $219 I know what I would get 😂
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Almo1960 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 3:33pm
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Originally posted by Muppet Muppet wrote:

It’s up to you, for $219 I know what I would get 😂


Like he said
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (1) Likes(1)   Quote MrWildabeast Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 4:44pm
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Another vote for the spinfisher in 2500 👍
Here fishy..fishy....
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Quiltro Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 4:45pm
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Hey guys, just to be clear. Marine deals does not have the spinfisher vi 2500 in stock https://www.marine-deals.co.nz/penn-reel/penn-spinfisher-vi-2500-spinning-reel

I do love my spinfisher vi 2500 and wanted another but they are now discontinued (no shop in auckland, according to google, seem to stock one). 

Having said that, my alternatives quickly escalated ($$$) I know. The other Penn alternatives, were not sealed at all, and the only ones that had 'water resistant', 'splash proof', 'sealed', and keywords that would hint some sort of 'water proofing' ended up being the Shimano and Daiwa. - Understanding all fishing reels are made to be on the water that goes without saying, right?

Will report back, but out of all my alternatives, it will be a vanford or the sol. I just wanted to know some NZ experiences with either or, cause there is very little info with these reels in NZ environments (other than the promo beauty videos of each product)
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (1) Likes(1)   Quote Keith C Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 4:56pm
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Mr Quiltro, I am sure you can find a Spinfisher vi 2500 if you wanted one. SmartMarine, for example, show stock.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Quiltro Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 5:14pm
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Hi Keith, interesting you mention that. As a matter of fact, I purchased my second rod (and the one im looking the reel for) at Smart Marine, it was there were I was offered the Spinfisher VI 3500 and Slammer III 3500 instead, both bigger and heavier options to the 2500. Nothing bad with that, I am not interested in a heavier reel. 

They however offered me a 'live liner' version of the 2500, that they had one in Tauranga and match the price. But it wouldnt arrive in time for this weekend (when i wanted/thought i could use my new setup). 

One of Penn NZ marketing person replied to me on facebook last week mentioning that a new Slammer IV is coming... in September. will see what that is all about. 

Yes, I most definitely could find a Spinfisher 2500 if I really wanted, and considered 'used' which I do not want. 
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 5:18pm
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The only Sol I had the 2nd version I sold and a kingfish destroyed it.

I would avoid Magseal.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Quiltro Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 6:15pm
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Originally posted by Muppet Muppet wrote:

The only Sol I had the 2nd version I sold and a kingfish destroyed it.

I would avoid Magseal.

ooosh! Shocked thats not good! - may I ask what did you replaced it with, or what are you currently fishing with? 
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote kingiFiddla Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 6:54pm
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Okuma Revenger 30 for about $40. What have you got to lose and just might be surprised at what it will handle.
*edit* heck, I'll personally guarantee you'll be surprised. If not, I'll buy it off you for what you paid for it. How's that for a guarantee.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 9:31pm
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Originally posted by Quiltro Quiltro wrote:

Originally posted by Muppet Muppet wrote:

The only Sol I had the 2nd version I sold and a kingfish destroyed it.

I would avoid Magseal.


ooosh! Shocked thats not good! - may I ask what did you replaced it with, or what are you currently fishing with? 



All Penn 😂

If you are going either Daiwa or Shimano go for the Shimano.

I must admit the new Certate is the best reel I have ever seen but I still wouldn’t buy one at that price nor want the service costs.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote The Tamure Kid Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 12 May 2021 at 10:02pm
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Complete Angler in ChCh has the Spinfisher you want for $199, with free shipping. While you've said you can't get it in AUckland, can't see why you'd not get it from ChCh if you know the reel inside out. 


If you watch Rokkit Kit's YouTube videos, he's supported by Penn but had his Slammers before they came to the party. Swears by them for his kayaking off the Gold Coast beaches. He gives them an absolute thrashing and they don't miss a beat without any servicing.
He previously used the Spinfishers but found them less waterproof.

If you have a pre-existing injury, maybe the weight of the Slammer 3500 is a factor, but I've never found it a problem fishing with the 4500 model during a long day softbaiting off a boat with my 'heavy' set up. It actually 'anchors' the rod better than a very light reel in my opinion. suits me, anyway. 

If the Vanford is like a sealed Stradic, I wouldn't hesitate to choose that over the Sol for the reasons Muppet has explained. I really like Stradics and use the 4000 size as my other softbaiting set up. Again, a few extra grams over a smaller size reel doesn't bother me. They just seem a bit more robust.
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote viscount Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 13 May 2021 at 3:05am
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Hay Muppet, you must of got a lemon of a Daiwa, I’ve caught kingis to 15kg on my certate with magseal in shallow water, don’t write off these reels.
Calling fishing a hobby is like calling brain surgery a job - Paul Schullery
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Post Options Post Options   Likes (0) Likes(0)   Quote Muppet Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 13 May 2021 at 7:22am
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How much was it to service? The reel that broke was a Sol the main shaft bent on a kingfish. Was not me was a mate who insisted it was his fault. I just said well if you think that....
I had my old Certate serviced and was never the same afterwards.
And if you do read my post about them I actually stated the best reel I ever turned a handle on. Incredible technology but for a kayak where there is a high chance of rough landings I wouldn’t go there for that price.

Unless you are rich and can afford too 😂
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