Inline reel for float tubing

I got a new reel to try out while float tubing for Bluegill, Redears and crappie at Lake Perris.  Since I do a lot of deep water (15 to 30 ft) vertical jigging for panfish while float tubing, this "new" type reel made for ice fishing by Eagle Claw just might workout pretty good.  It's made for very light line; 1 to 4 lb test, has an adjustable free spool button and a smooth star drag system.  The double handle has large soft grips. You can't really cast with it, it's made to just drop your bait straight down to either jig, troll or dead stick it.  Going to be interesting trying out something new.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

What's the benefit of this reel over a bait caster or spinning reel?

That is a killer looking reel I am sure it will be fun to play with, let us know what you think of it after you try it out. ?Question? How much does something like that go for.

WTG Komuri, I look forward to a report.
I tried using a spinning reel with an ulralight ice fishing rod for dropping down to BlueGill and hated it. With out the ability to cast, the whippy little rod was too short, I was lost.

SirMixALot- You do not get any line twist. Like I mentioned, it's an ice fishing reel, made to fish either straight down or out at a slight angle while trolling or drifting.
Jerdon- I use a couple
short rods while tubing. One of my favorites is a little 4 ft. Daiwa Spinmatic which is rated for 1-4 lb line. I don't need to make long casts while out in 12 to 20 FOW.

Komori,

Did you get a chance to try this set up out?
Was wondering how you liked it.

Looks great. In theory it should be perfect for panfish. I hate the line twist from ultralite spinners.

No, I have just been too busy at work and here at the house to get out and fish. Heck, I haven't even got my fishing license yet. I've got several new things to try out, can't wait to get out there! Fishing for panfish is fairly slow right now at LP, but I think the big crappie will start biting any time now. Then in early spring the Redears start up, and finally around March & April, the 'Gills will start getting active. Then in May, the water should be warm enough to go in without waders. It's just going to be too bad that the Bernasconi area will be closed off for float tube launching, because that area has the best fishing.

Crappie are starting to go , they just elude me . Been a guy the last 2 weeks bringing in multiple crappie , dunno where he is catching them , but he has them dialed in . he shows me all the time when he comes through the launch ramp

that's a nice looking reel Komori, I hope you make a review on it once you break it in.

Komori,

Have you got a chance to try this thing out?
I was wondering about this lately.

Ooooooh a new reel! Gotta have one just cuz!

Yes, I have tried out this very cool reel and though it's different, I really like it.  What I think is great is that you can put the "clicker" on while you slowly kick or drift along, and if you get a bite, the reel will tell you.  You do need to loosen the drag somewhat for this to work, then you can easily tighten it up while fighting the fish, and also turn off the clicker or it will make that noise while you are bringing in the fish.  The star drag is a little touchy and you have to get it set just right while using the very light lines that this reel was made for.  For me, I use circle hooks so I do not have to "set the hook", the fish hook themselves when they grab the bait/lure and turn to swim away with it.  Just put the rod in rod holder and relax.  Rod goes down, drag clicker screams and FISH ON!
This is my buddy's fish, which I think has awesome colors.  Big male chunk of a Bluegill!  Remember..Catch, Photo,and Release!
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

As if I don't have enough rods and reels already! I need this one. I think it would be a nice reel for trolling, which I happen to love.

that reel is sick!! i love the idea. im glad it worked out for you. its a damn good idea.