Daiwa Lexa 300HL Reel Review

[Wreckfish]

Last year I bought a used Daiwa Lexa 300HL low profile baitcasting reel.   I match it with my Seeker Inshore Lite custom rod with plans on using it for bucktailing fluke and Seabass.  I loaded it with 20Lb of Tuff-Line braid.
Specs
6.3:1
10.5
22Lb of Drag
Braid Cap: 20lb/240yds

I got the left hand version with paddle handle.  It’s also available in a 7.1:1 and 5.1:1 ratio, and with a power handle. 

I’ve been a Penn and Shimano guy most of my life but I am really liking the Lexa. It is smooth reeling and casting.  It weighs next to nothing, good size for palming the reel, at 22lbs drag it is a beast, and has plenty of line capacity with braid.  It feels solid in my hand.  I do prefer the paddle handle over the power handle.  Matched with my Inshore Lite it can handle any fluke or seabass triple header thrown at it.  With all the different size, ratios, lefty/right and handle options it easy to tune to you fishing style.  I would think the 400 would make a kick-ass Striper reel.   Bottom line, I am very happy with my Lexa 300. I am looking for another now.

[Bucktail]

Good to know Phil.  I've been using a Curado 300 for fluke to stripers for about 5 seasons now. I love the low profile and it casts great!  I like it even better than my Calcuttas.
I was planning on eventually getting another one, but after this review I'll have to look into the Lexa as well.

Thanks.  

[Fishin Dude]

Great review Phil. I was looking at those last season, now I might just have to pick on up.

[BigAl13]

I still use my old Diawa millionaire s, may be time to upgrade.

[IrishAyes]

One of the guys on my Friday crew fishes the Lexa and he swears by it.   Thanks for the review Phil.

[Hunter 2]

Thanks Phil