For me it casts just a little better than the Genius when both are "out of the factory" (no bearing upgrades) - though the Castfanatic is a bit larger in the hand. Manufacturing seems to be of a similar standard - so it probably comes down to size and cosmetics as to which you prefer.
That's a very good question. You could make an argument that, if you wanted a smaller reel then it might be a good idea to see what price a Dark Wolf Ultra is going for just now. Similarly, if you could get a deal on an ACURA at your preferred gear ratio (again with that smaller diameter spool). However, if you like the idea of a larger diameter spool which will be a bit more comfortable with larger lures as well as the really light stuff then the CastFanatic does a good job. I need to try it out with some Roro bearings and compare it with the ACURA the next chance I get. I'd be interested to see how it goes. It's also interesting what that larger diameter spool does in combination with the gear ratio in terms of inches per handle turn (plus the handle is a fair bit longer than the ACURA, Genius , micromonster and DWU, so it might have a little more torque - while being a bit less compact again. Paul
@@RicardoReview Prices are up and down all over the place - so if you see a bargain and want a smaller reel, the ACURA is an excellent option. the 8:1 has a siimilar inches per turn line retrieve as the Castfanatic (due to the spool diameters). I paid a chunk more for the double spool option on the ACURA and I'm very happy with it. Paul
lovely little video!
Thanks man. Glad you enjoyed it. Paul.
Castfanatic was probably the best reel for this price
I was very pleasantly surprised I have to say. Paul
Hi Paul glad to see the videos again cheers
Nice one - and thank you for taking time out to send positive feedback; it's much appreciated. Paul
Would you say this reel is better than the genius (70ish bucks)?
For me it casts just a little better than the Genius when both are "out of the factory" (no bearing upgrades) - though the Castfanatic is a bit larger in the hand. Manufacturing seems to be of a similar standard - so it probably comes down to size and cosmetics as to which you prefer.
👍😎
Thanks Michael - I'm glad you enjoyed this one. Paul
Is there any reel on the market that is near the price of this that is better? like until the 80$ range?
That's a very good question. You could make an argument that, if you wanted a smaller reel then it might be a good idea to see what price a Dark Wolf Ultra is going for just now. Similarly, if you could get a deal on an ACURA at your preferred gear ratio (again with that smaller diameter spool). However, if you like the idea of a larger diameter spool which will be a bit more comfortable with larger lures as well as the really light stuff then the CastFanatic does a good job. I need to try it out with some Roro bearings and compare it with the ACURA the next chance I get. I'd be interested to see how it goes. It's also interesting what that larger diameter spool does in combination with the gear ratio in terms of inches per handle turn (plus the handle is a fair bit longer than the ACURA, Genius , micromonster and DWU, so it might have a little more torque - while being a bit less compact again. Paul
@@FishingDiscoveries The Acura 8.1 goes sometimes on sale for 55€ so cheaper than the Castfanatic (58€)
@@RicardoReview Prices are up and down all over the place - so if you see a bargain and want a smaller reel, the ACURA is an excellent option. the 8:1 has a siimilar inches per turn line retrieve as the Castfanatic (due to the spool diameters). I paid a chunk more for the double spool option on the ACURA and I'm very happy with it. Paul