Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel Review

Worth the Money? My Take on the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel is a workhorse designed for anglers who demand precision and reliability without breaking the bank. Manufactured by Daiwa, a name synonymous with quality fishing gear, this reel features a line counter, a single ball bearing, and a durable construction, making it a contender in the world of trolling and deep-water fishing. Is it a high-end, feature-rich marvel?

I’ve spent years wrestling with cheap line counters that failed mid-fight, leaving me guessing at depth and losing valuable fish. I needed a reel that could accurately track line out, withstand the strain of heavy lures and hard-fighting fish, and hold up season after season. This search led me to the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel.

Upon unboxing, the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel felt solid and well-assembled. The line counter was clear and easy to read, and the handle had a comfortable, ergonomic feel. It wasn’t flashy, but it exuded an air of practical durability.

I considered the Shimano Tekota and the Okuma Magda Pro, both reputable line counter reels. I opted for the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel due to Daiwa’s reputation for durability and the generally positive reviews regarding the accuracy of its line counter. The price point was also a significant factor, making it an accessible option for anglers on a budget.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The reel felt right, but the true test would be on the water, battling hefty lake trout and stubborn salmon. Would it live up to the hype?

Real-World Testing: Putting Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel on Lake Michigan, trolling for lake trout. The conditions were typical for early spring: cold water, a stiff breeze, and a persistent drizzle. I paired the reel with a medium-heavy action rod and loaded it with 30-pound braided line.

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel performed admirably. The line counter was accurate and easy to reset, even with gloved hands. The drag was smooth and consistent, allowing me to control the fight of several decent-sized lakers without any jerky starts or stops.

The only slight issue was the initial adjustment to the single ball bearing system. It’s not as buttery smooth as higher-end reels, but it was perfectly functional and didn’t detract significantly from the experience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of heavy use, the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel has proven to be a reliable and durable performer. It has seen countless hours of trolling for lake trout, salmon, and walleye in various conditions, from calm, sunny days to blustery, rain-soaked outings. The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel has held up beautifully.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The line counter still works flawlessly. I regularly rinse the reel with fresh water after each use and apply a light coat of reel oil to the moving parts.

Compared to some cheaper line counter reels I’ve used in the past, the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel is a significant upgrade. Its durability, accuracy, and smooth drag system make it a worthwhile investment for any angler who frequently trolls or fishes deep water.

Breaking Down the Features of Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel

Specifications

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Single Ball Bearing Construction: Simplifies the design, increasing dependability. The single bearing offers adequate smoothness for most trolling applications.
• Gear Ratios: Ranging from 4.2:1 to 6.1:1, depending on the model, providing versatile line retrieval speeds. Slower ratios offer more power for cranking in large fish or heavy lures, while faster ratios allow for quicker lure retrieval.
• Line Pickup: Varies from 24.4 inches to 42.9 inches per handle turn, catering to different fishing styles. This affects how quickly you can retrieve line and reset your presentation.
• Maximum Drag Pressure: Ranges from 8.8 pounds to 20 pounds, providing ample stopping power for various species. Higher drag allows for better control when fighting large fish.
• Reel Weights: Span from 12.9 ounces to 19.6 ounces, offering a comfortable balance on most rods. Weight affects fatigue during long days on the water.
• Line Capacity: Ranging from 10/290 to 20/580 for mono and 30/330 to 65/550 for Daiwa J-Braid, accommodating different line types and fishing scenarios. Larger line capacity is crucial for targeting deep-water fish or using heavy line.
• Line Counter: Accurately measures the amount of line out, crucial for trolling and deep-water presentations. Line counter accuracy is essential for repeatedly presenting lures at specific depths.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the reel’s performance and suitability for different fishing applications. The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel is best suited for trolling and deep-water fishing where line control and accurate depth presentation are crucial.

Performance & Functionality

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel performs its intended job well. It accurately measures line out, provides a smooth drag system, and offers adequate power for battling medium to large fish. The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel represents very good value for money.

Its strengths lie in its reliability, affordability, and ease of use. The drag system is smooth and consistent, and the line counter is accurate. The weakness is the single ball bearing system is not as smooth as higher-end reels.

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel meets expectations for a mid-range line counter reel. It’s not a top-of-the-line model, but it delivers reliable performance at a reasonable price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel features a simple, functional design. The materials used are durable and corrosion-resistant. The reel feels comfortable in hand and balances well on most rods.

The reel is user-friendly. The line counter is easy to read and reset, and the drag adjustment is intuitive. There’s minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel is built to last. The durable construction and corrosion-resistant materials ensure a long lifespan with proper care.

Maintaining the reel is straightforward. Regular rinsing with fresh water and occasional lubrication are sufficient to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel doesn’t come with many accessories. It is primarily designed as a standalone trolling reel.

There are limited customization options for the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel. The focus is on function and durability rather than customization. It is compatible with standard-sized reel seats on most trolling rods.

Pros and Cons of Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel

Who Should Buy Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel?

Perfect for: Pro anglers, and any anglers who frequently troll or fish in deep water and need an accurate and reliable line counter reel. Also great for fishermen who are on a budget and still want something reliable.

Who should skip this product? Anglers who demand the ultimate in smoothness and performance or require extensive customization options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality braided line to maximize line capacity and sensitivity.

Conclusion on Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel

The Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel is a reliable and affordable line counter reel that delivers excellent performance for trolling and deep-water fishing. While it lacks the bells and whistles of higher-end models, its accuracy, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for anglers of all skill levels. The price is certainly justified for the performance it provides.

I would definitely recommend the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel to any angler looking for a dependable line counter reel without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to take your trolling game to the next level, give the Daiwa Accudepth Plus LC Reel a try. You might be surprised at how much difference accurate depth control can make!