I just spooled up a new HTO Aikido 1000 spinning reel with 0.2PE to give it a go at some Perch and LRF duties. It’s the first truly budget fixed spool reel (£45) that I haven’t immediately recoiled from. It’s a nice looking reel. The body has a Zaion-type vibe to it. The weight isn’t outrageous and I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth line-lay when spooling it up. Line capacity is 200m of 0.165mm (3lb mono). Here’s some more detailed images I took >
8th January, 2022 @ 2:17 pm
Be interesting to see how it preforms during use
8th January, 2022 @ 5:09 pm
I’m hoping it becomes my standard LRF reel. Something I’m not too precious of in urban or rocky environments but decent enough that I forget I’m using it. It’s got 0.2 on it so I’m hoping the drag works well.
9th January, 2022 @ 6:35 am
That’s the reason I’ve never paid more for my lrf reels than 100 as they get a lot of abuse especially when I’m perch, chub or trout fishing some of the places I’ve fished are tricky to get in and out of ?
27th December, 2022 @ 11:29 pm
Hi Adam!
Newbie to LRF here and I’m just in the process of purchasing my first set up. Hope you don’t mind what might be a silly question but would you use a light fluro leader for this type of set up or just fish straight through? I’ll be learning to drop shot mainly. Also how much braid does this spool hold? Will I need backing?
Thanks, James.
27th December, 2022 @ 11:52 pm
Hi James. Thanks for the comment.
Definitely a 3 or 4lb fluorocarbon leader to start. Uni-to-uni knot is probably the easiest connection to master. About 4 or 5 feet in length.
You will need backing. Repurpose some old braid or light nylon. The critical part is making sure the knot between the backing and your braid is covered so it doesn’t catch your braid when you cast. I put a bit of tape over the knot before winding on the braid.
Line capacity is always a bit hit and miss. You may have to spool it a couple of times to get the right level.
Enjoy your new LRF outfit.
28th December, 2022 @ 10:14 am
Thanks for the reply Adam. I’m so out of my comfort zone with this type of fishing, I have so much to learn! Great little site you have here, a great deal of info. I’ve decided on the HTO Akidio 6’6” and the Akidio 1000 to pair it with. Going to try and find some fellow LTFers in my home county to learn from!
28th December, 2022 @ 11:27 pm
Thanks for your kind words. It’s a great combo. I’ve used them both myself. No doubt you’ll have a lot of fun.
Probably the two most common issues that catch people out with LRF gear are; ‘tip wrap’ watch out for line getting wrapped around the rod tip / tip guides. Especially before you cast. If you feel any resistance / friction, stop winding. It can break your rod tip. Secondly, line management. Look out for loose coils of braid getting formed and sort them before they turn in to the mother of all wind knots.
The rest is pure fun. Enjoy!
29th December, 2022 @ 2:12 pm
Thanks so much for the advice Adam it really is appreciated. Just more question if I may!?
What is your opinion on flurocarbon instead of braid while I’m getting used to LRF fishing? I understand I’ll lose some of the sensitivity of braid but would very light fluro be worth using until I’m confident with the set up?
Thank you so much again for all the advice!
29th December, 2022 @ 4:20 pm
No worries. The light braid is ultimately what gives you the feedback. The bites obviously, but also wha’ts happening with your lure and what the bottom feels like. For that reason I would persist with it.