Abu Garcia Cardinal fixed spool reels

My first spinning reels was an ABU CARDINAL 50. It was a very durable reel and lasted years of fishing by my brother on the Isle of Man before it ever got to me. I believe it has been dropped down more cliffs than you would have thought possible. It still works to this day and I would never part with it as it landed my PB Bass at 9LB 6OZ

I guess because of the outstanding durability of my Cardinal, when I got a few quid together I went out and bought another…. Again I am very pleased with this reel. Its very well engineered, with no play and instant anti-reverse. Under pressure it works very well. I prefer the rear drag systems, just personal preference.

Anyway here is a brief run down of the Abu Cardinal range,

• Abu Cardinal 100 series - 5 bearings, the largest one holds 250 yds of 12lb line
• Abu Cardinal 170 series - Designed for saltwater, with stainless steel components. 4 bearings, gear ratio of 5.1:1, the largest one holding 325 yds of 20lb line
• Abu Cardinal 300 series - Instant anti-reverse. 5.1:1 ratio the largest holding 210 yds of 10lb line
• Abu Cardinal 500 ALB series - designed for saltwater use. 10 bearings with 5.1:1 gear ratio, holding 250 yards 12lb line. Multi disc drag system to manage your double figure Bass!!
• Abu Cardinal 600 ALBi series - 7 bearings, 5.1:1 gear ratio holding 250yds of 12lb line. Ideal for saltwater use with a Carbon matrix front drag.
• Abu Cardinal 700 LX series - built to last! saltwater reel. 7 high quality bearings, 5.1:1 gear ratio holding 250yds 17lb line. Carbon matrix drag.

There are lots of other models still out there which I have not mentioned here. If you own another model and would like to share you thoughts about it please comment on this post. Also, if you are interested in a particular model, then please ask and lets see if we can find you some help regarding the Abu Cardinal range.

image: simon peckham