Stoked to see an upload! Great informative content!! I have a love/hate relationship with my Cardiff. Performs flawlessly and rarely needs maintenance. I hate how it won’t fall apart to give me a reason to get a new reel...
You posted this video as I was catching my new Pb (5lbs 11oz) in CT. This was the one time that I didn’t drop whatever I was doing when you posted a new video haha. Can’t wait for this one!
@@KeepinItReelFishing Thanks! Though I have been putting in a lot of time with swimbaits and catching some good fish on them, like what you say, my goal was a big fish so when a lipless is the right bait, I threw the lipless. I was shore fishing and I had to reach a windy hump 60 yards off shore. Definitely an awesome catch! Just the other day I had a 7-8 pounder (not an exaggeration) hit my S waver 200 and follow it up to me. It was tough but really kept me going!
@@lightsoutlitch6278 Dude, I love it. I have been throwing the lipless HARD the the past few weeks as well. Like you said, the conditions were prime and I was being met with success. I too lost a good one (6+lbs). I've also been doing VERY well with the Savage Gear Smash Tail 170 (the Whopper Plopper 190 works interchangeably). For whatever reason on one lake I fish the unique sound/splash of those plopping style lures has been the "it" bait and was getting bit quick where as wake baits weren't getting attention. Anyway man, hope that 7-8 shows herself again this fall. Good luck!
@@KeepinItReelFishing Thanks so much, and you too! (Just missed a four on the Sly Guy 7.5 and casted off an s waver 200, guess I can’t have two great days in a row haha)
Love your channel bro, your speech on the video you caught your pb reminded me of myself. I’m up in Maine and my friend caught a 7.1 on a secret pond I took him to. Back in July 2018. Beating that has been my goal since he caught that fish. I’ve put thousands of dollars, sacrificed sleep, time, any other hobbies into this goal. To the point where I thought it was hopeless. Today I went out, to small trout stocked ponds. Walking back I decided to make a couple casts at one last spot. I ended up sticking an 8.02 pond bass on a 8” ROF 5 hudd. Surreal feeling. I’m exhausted but I can’t sleep. I’ve watched almost all of your videos multiple times. I have learned a ton from you! To the point where. I’m not sure if I could’ve done it without you. Thank you for your content, keep up the great work!
Bro. BRO!!! Jack I am stoked.....TRULY excited for you! Your exactly right, that feeling....that passion that has been gripping you is precisely what consumed me. And let me understand this, just yesterday you cracked an 8LB......yesterday??!! I feel like cracking open a drink to celebrate and I don't even know you bro! lol. Seriously though, for those of us that get bit by the big bass bug its a blessing and a curse. Its awesome to be so purely passionate about, well anything in life. But, if its REAL, then it consumes you and like you said has you dropping a lot of $, time, energy, etc. However, the end result for anyone so driven and focused will always be success. Thats funny man, you eeaked out those last few ounces my fish didn't have. I love everything about that fish and catch, but I'd be lying if I said stopping at 7lbs 15oz was a slight kick in the nuts. Anyway, again....huge congrats and VERY excited on your success. AND.....to do it in Maine I think had got to be harder than down here in NJ, so ever more props on that. Hit me up on IG @keepinit.reel.fishing. Send me a few pics of this epic catch!
I appreciate all of that so much! You have no idea. You, tactical bassin and bigbassdreams have been idols for me during this journey. You were the most relatable to me. By a long shot. Lower budget, same dream. And we both achieved it! So happy to say hard work pays off. The fish was caught Thursday the 15th. 2:43PM. I will definitely dm you the post! Mainelunkers when you see it in your dms. Can’t emphasize enough how much of a role you played in my fishing, in my motivation to commit to big baits. Thank you for your amazing channel.
Newman still has and uses his OG Cardiff reels. I fished with him 3 days ago and his primary Huddleston reel is a Calcutta 300 D Series. Told me he prefers the smoothness.
Great video man. 👍🏼😎 I have a Cardiff 401A hopefully arriving in the mail tomorrow haha and I’m just trying to get more knowledge on it and this video gave me quite a bit more. I appreciate it. 👊🏼😊
I recently lost my Calcutta 200B. Yes, lost--as in misplaced. Unfortunately, I am not as financially stable as I was over 15 years ago and have been eyeing the Cardiff as a "replacement." How do you feel it compares to the Calcutta?
I own a 300. My only issue was the short handle. Ordered a longer one with no problem. I absolutly love this reel. Many parts available too. Have another in my cart for a different swimbait rod I am looking into. Tempted to order the calcutta, but for the price I cant help but love the Cardiff.
I remember you mentioning this review being in the works and being so excited because I love this reel. Haven’t even watched this yet but I know it’ll be a good one.
Yes new upload thx Carl enjoyed the video! I was just searching your channel yesterday trying to find the video where you mention the name of the company that you sent your scale to be calibrated. I'd like to send mine out this winter to be calibrated.
Hey Victor. IGFA - International Game Fish Association. They are the organization who are the record keepers of all world record fish. igfa.org/scale-certification/
Unless someone already mentioned it…. A lot of reels today as I’m sure your aware of, the level wind spins while casting keeping the line “ inline “ with the level wind. I have a theory, once you spool up your reel, don’t touch the handle until you have tied your rig or lures to it. Keeping the level wind and the line on the spool In sync, thus making your cast go further. What I have found while casting is there is not much of a difference between casting a reel with or without a level wind if the spool is in sync with the level wind.
I love these reels, I catch 60lbs and up red drum and striper on mine and they are great. I remove the level wind and casting is amazing. I've run two of these for about ten years.
Great stuff on the Cardiff! I have 2-300 models and 1-400 model. Great reels especially for their price tag. I use it for black fishing up in CT. Nice informative video, you don’t see too many on the Cardiff series.
Thanks for the great video on the Cardiff. Only good one I could find. Ordered 301 same as yours on eBay yesterday. Found it new in France of all places. Should be interesting as I only have Chronarchs D7s and Curados , MGL Chronarchs and older Scorpions. All low profile
I bought 4 200's for $50.00 each at a sporting goods store when they had a 50% off sale and thought i would give them to my kids to get them started in bait casting...sorry kids, i have them rigged up on some of my stripper and steelhead rods...i love them, they are comfortable and durable, I have been looking at Curados which i have two 150's, but i may buy a couple of Cardiff 300's. thanks for the video
They are good rods....I mean REALLY good rods. This is actually a series they call the "White Label", which is rather plain in terms of looks and sold as is (no customization). Which, is an anomaly because like the company name suggests (Low Down Customs) pretty much everything else they do is completely custom as per the customers design and component choices.
Picked up the 400 ,on a ugly stick coastal today for $ 30.00 at a pawn shop, never touched one till today i am a believer looking to buy more of them, i am sold.
I own a 300 size and it's a winch that casts very nice and is far more refined than my Abu Garcia's. There's more than a few low profiles in my collection, but there's just something about a well built round reel. But they aren't an entry level reel, at least around here and cost significantly more than my C3 when new.
Good horse of a reel. I think it feel pretty expensive, even today. I have used mine a lot, for bottom fishing. Overall pretty reliable. The only weakness is that damn thumb bar, that they chose to attach only on one side. Also on the bigger models the clicker can get issues with time. But the gears and frame are solid and smooth even by today's standards
Never had 1 problem with either of my Corvalus 401' (only model is the 400/401 that has the clicker),they're the same reel but Cardiff is intended for salt so they have some extra seals and maybe different bearings.Had them for a number of years and use them for Catfish and some in the salt. Only thing I have done to them is add Callcutta handles.
Great review and video. I have all 3 sizes in LH bought the year they came out. 301 is used for A-rigs and 201 on the junk setup (1/4‐2oz). Never change the brake setting but was curious so I looked and yep 2 brakes on.
I landed 25+ dorado on my Cardiff... Im thinking of getting a new one now... what rod are you using for big top waters like Lunker Punkers?? awesome channel!!
Congrats Al on the solid Dorado. For all my treble hook lures I prefer my LDC (Low Down Customs) White Label. Mine is in a XH power, rated at 3-8oz and of particular interest is its taper....its a slow action. I personally know of no other rods made to handle the big baits that are so parabolic. I also have a Savage Gear Browser XH. Its a bit easier to work things like the Punker, but the soft tip quickly transitions into a much more solid backbone due to its mod/fast taper. Some may prefer that, but for me, on anything with trebles, I like as much cushioning in my system as possible and the LDC affords that.
@@KeepinItReelFishing thanks man … I went full bore into fly fishing the last ten years but missing my roots! BIG BAITS! I have a lamiglas big bait special, but the tip is a little faster then I like for the punker … I will definitely look up your suggestions for rods
@@alansarpy Oh yeah, I should have warned you. His stuff is extremely popular....its Butch Brown's (if your familiar with him) rod maker of choice. He does a ton of custom rods....thats really his go to. But, sporadically he will put up batches of what he calls the White Label, which is essentially giving you what really matters (the unique blank) and the rest of the rod is very simple/no frills. (VS all the custom stuff he is known for). Check out Swimbait Underground for reviews. There are a lot of fan boys, but if you search you will also find legitimate reviews from objective folks as well. I can tell you that it is my favorite big bait rod by a very large margin. I have also heard that if you contact the owner of LDC (name is Ben) you can order a White Label even though he does not have them on the website.
Hey Mission (cool name btw) - thank you for the kind words. The rod is going to be based on what size (really what weight) baits you plan to throw. Typically with swimbaits there are 3 steps to the rods, something like a 1-4oz, a 2-7oz, and a 4-10oz. The 2-7 will be the most versatile, assuming you have, or plan to have a mix of baits in the range. I know when starting out though a lot of people are wary of going right into those 8" and up 4oz+ lures. If you plan to start with things in the smaller 5-7" range and 1-4oz the lighter swimbait rod is ideal. As an aside I threw my 8" Huddlestons on one of those lighter rods (rated to 5oz max) for a few years before getting an "appropriate" rod. As long as you reel up that slack and swing HARD you will still move those big baits and typically get the hook set.
@@KeepinItReelFishing thank you for the prompt and definitive answer. My only experience so far is with big bbz rat and a live target bluegill. But like you I've experienced more 5 lbers and mid and high 4's with a bigger bait. With the rats I've done great 2.5 ounces throwing with a Abu garcia 6500 synchro. ( musky reel) but it cast like a dream. I like the round reel and you had me at "working man's"..lol .. You sold me on the g2 shellcracker which is on it's way and the Hud deluxe 68 perch also on it's way. My go too is buzzbait but I'm transitioning in your footsteps to the bigger baits. Thanks again for the reply
@@jhnnyboy100 Your welcome man. Yeah, those G2 Shellcrackers are a really fantastic small-ish bait, and like I said in the review on them, they statistically have gotten me more 5+lb bass than other wakes/cranks in that size have. Good choice with the 68 in perch too. I just picked up a couple more this year as well. I totally understand the transition part. I got lucky as heck and got my old PB of 6lbs 6oz came only on only my second trip throwing the 8" Huddleston. That lure looked SO big, and while I knew bass could eat it, until I saw it totally swallowed on the end of MY line I still had that mental reluctance. That bite happening so quickly gave me confidence to throw that 8" model the rest of the year, which I don't know how committed I would have been otherwise. But, thankfully I did as I caught one just one ounce less at 6lb 5oz later that same year.
Hello! Nice review! Do you know the spool diameter? 24inch per crank 5,8:1 equates to 33,5 mm spool, that sounds really small for a 300 reel... But i also know that shimano not always use a "full spool" as basis for calculating line retrieve. I see this reel in 200 size as a good no nonsense round reel. I think the 200-300 is the same size, just narrover frame/ spool for the 200? Tight lines!
Sure. On most of them I use either 65lb or 50lb braid (depends on capacity of spool) to a leader in the 15lb to 20lb range. I'll use either mono or fluoro. Fluoro if its a jig hook bait (especially weedless) to help in setting the hook, or mono if its a treble hook bait where I want a little stretch in the system and the hooks are easily set. I use the Alberto knot to join all braid to leader connections, with a little superglue, or preferably Loon's UV Knot Sense. In super clear water (gin clear) water the leader is more of a top shot in that I make it crazy long.....like 50ft. For most applications though in water with any stain I run leaders in the 6ft - 10ft range.
Corvalus is the same reel......the Cardiff has seals etc. for saltwater and you're spending more $$ on something you don't need if you only fish freshwater. Don't really need a Cardiff in the salt though...if you're not dunking it in the water,sand,and wash your gear after each use. I use the Corvalus 401's (only size that has the bait alarm) for both fresh (Catfish) and salt. Brakes,who uses anything but the spool tensioner? Been using conv/round/baitcasting reels since the 80's and I don't use a brake.Only reason I use the tensioner is in case I pull my thumb off the spool before casting or the bar gets bumped and releases the spool.
Love your videos man. I just picked up a Cardiff 300 and was curious your opinion on a decent 2 piece swimbait rod to pair with it? I'm looking to throw those 8in hudlestons or something similar from my 14ft Radisson up in the Adirondacks for some big bass and pike.
I have that reel and it's given me some problems. First the lock ring on the outside of the handle that goes on the nut somehow broke. Then for some reason it just stopped casting - I could reel the line in but when I went to go cast the spool wouldn't spin. Must have gotten a bad one. Have you tried the CONCEPT A3 (or newer GEN II version) for big swimbaits?
Hey Dan - yeah, that sucks man, but as a mechanical device invariably some will develop malfunctions. I have a high end reel and a mid range reel that have broke on me over the years. I have tried the A3....made a video review on it as a matter of fact. ruclips.net/video/5_IDAyAu-cs/видео.html I don't have the second generation though. In terms of 300 size reels I also own the Shimano Curado 301, Daiwa Ryoga 2020, and 13 Fishing Z3.
Great video. Just got one myself, but notice when I pull the drag the level wind doesn’t move, and all precious baitcasters have… is this correct or a faulty reel??
I swapped mine with Calcutta handles....I am using the Corvalus 401's though,same reel as Cardiff but for freshwater and 400/401 (Cardiff and Corvalus) is the only models that have the bait alarm.
I sold my Cardiff 300 and got piscufun chaos xs much better real cast way smoother 50 size comes with big handle also alot cheaper . Also comes apart same way as Cardiff , has 6 pin centrifugal brakes
Nope piscifun is a slept on brand kiddo , I have the csx carbon and aljuos 300 and yet to buy a reel that competes in preformence , that's including a calcutta
LOL They're just overpriced POS chinese reels with a paint job...those off-brands aren't worth a dime,save a lil longer and get a brand-name like Shimano,Daiwa,Penn. Buy once and save yourself $$ in the long run.
Of course WV. You can pair it to most any rod within reason. But yes, a long-ish (7'9") rod made to handle swimbait weights goes hand and hand with this, or any other 300 (or 200) size reel.
Thank you! Most of what I show it on is the LDC (Low Down Customs) White Label XH. There is also some footage of it being used on the Savage Gear Browswer XH.
👌LEFTIES ON EBAY ARE ALWAYS THE CHEAPEST!🙌 RIGHT HANDS WON'T BE THAT CHEAP. FINE AND DANDY....but, I have a dozen Ryoga's and ''you wouldn't believe what we put it thru the other day when a 5 pound fish turned into a 100 pounder. ON A BIG topwater, you would have FREAKED!!!!! (won't spam ya with the link here...hahaha) Yes, this reel would work for charter customers at that price cause I'd need 6-8 of them. 📌📌FYI TO ALL YOUR VIEWERS KARL GOT ME HOOKED ON THE DAIWA RYOGA, and yes not for the faint of heart cost wise, or casting wise, and durability wise. And I'm in saltwater ❗
Hey Dave - hope your doing well man. How has your year been business wise? People going out more to get away from everyone and to the 'safety' of the water?
@@KeepinItReelFishing looking forward to the next China attack! (kidding of course) Id personally would get satisfaction taking out a CCP official myself! Business hasn't slacked one bit. Bought a 20k outboard right in the middle of the BS, on May 8th, and it's already 1/2 paid off! !Boat sales this summer at local dealerships setting sales records. People have $$, and I know who we can thank for that!...and his name ain't Joe. Busy, busy, Florida is open, Gov. DeSantis ain't playing games with the Wu-Flu or Antifa or BLM bullshit either. I'm ready, come march yer azz down my street!
Old comment but maybe this will help others.... Don't try to use those POS chinese handles.....all you'll do is waste time and $$ and still won't have a handle. Pick up a handle for a Calcutta. Shimano part # BNT 3369 Reuse your old nut and nut cover/lock.
Yes The Cardiff is intended for salt.The Corvalus is the same but intended for freshwater although I have used mine in salt numerous times....just wash them after each use...as any reel whether intended for salt or not.
A new video!!!! Stopping everything to sit down and watch, good stuff👍👍👍
ha ha!! Thanks Vaughn...and everyone else. Much appreciated and I hope the video is helpful.
SUPER helpful video. My Cardiff DID NOT have any brakes popped out.
Stoked to see an upload! Great informative content!! I have a love/hate relationship with my Cardiff. Performs flawlessly and rarely needs maintenance. I hate how it won’t fall apart to give me a reason to get a new reel...
Thanks Anthony! Thank you for watching and taking the time to leave the feedback. Tight lines this fall my man.
Your table-top reviews are my favorite. Thanks for your time
Thanks Jeremy. Appreciate it man.
You posted this video as I was catching my new Pb (5lbs 11oz) in CT. This was the one time that I didn’t drop whatever I was doing when you posted a new video haha. Can’t wait for this one!
Congrats my man I'm also from CT and that is a great catch!
That's uncanny (and AWESOME). Good for you man! What did you get her on?
@@KeepinItReelFishing Thanks! Though I have been putting in a lot of time with swimbaits and catching some good fish on them, like what you say, my goal was a big fish so when a lipless is the right bait, I threw the lipless. I was shore fishing and I had to reach a windy hump 60 yards off shore. Definitely an awesome catch! Just the other day I had a 7-8 pounder (not an exaggeration) hit my S waver 200 and follow it up to me. It was tough but really kept me going!
@@lightsoutlitch6278 Dude, I love it. I have been throwing the lipless HARD the the past few weeks as well. Like you said, the conditions were prime and I was being met with success. I too lost a good one (6+lbs). I've also been doing VERY well with the Savage Gear Smash Tail 170 (the Whopper Plopper 190 works interchangeably). For whatever reason on one lake I fish the unique sound/splash of those plopping style lures has been the "it" bait and was getting bit quick where as wake baits weren't getting attention. Anyway man, hope that 7-8 shows herself again this fall. Good luck!
@@KeepinItReelFishing Thanks so much, and you too! (Just missed a four on the Sly Guy 7.5 and casted off an s waver 200, guess I can’t have two great days in a row haha)
This is the best review of the Cardiff on RUclips.
Love your channel bro, your speech on the video you caught your pb reminded me of myself. I’m up in Maine and my friend caught a 7.1 on a secret pond I took him to. Back in July 2018. Beating that has been my goal since he caught that fish. I’ve put thousands of dollars, sacrificed sleep, time, any other hobbies into this goal. To the point where I thought it was hopeless. Today I went out, to small trout stocked ponds. Walking back I decided to make a couple casts at one last spot. I ended up sticking an 8.02 pond bass on a 8” ROF 5 hudd. Surreal feeling. I’m exhausted but I can’t sleep. I’ve watched almost all of your videos multiple times. I have learned a ton from you! To the point where. I’m not sure if I could’ve done it without you. Thank you for your content, keep up the great work!
Bro. BRO!!! Jack I am stoked.....TRULY excited for you! Your exactly right, that feeling....that passion that has been gripping you is precisely what consumed me. And let me understand this, just yesterday you cracked an 8LB......yesterday??!! I feel like cracking open a drink to celebrate and I don't even know you bro! lol. Seriously though, for those of us that get bit by the big bass bug its a blessing and a curse. Its awesome to be so purely passionate about, well anything in life. But, if its REAL, then it consumes you and like you said has you dropping a lot of $, time, energy, etc. However, the end result for anyone so driven and focused will always be success. Thats funny man, you eeaked out those last few ounces my fish didn't have. I love everything about that fish and catch, but I'd be lying if I said stopping at 7lbs 15oz was a slight kick in the nuts. Anyway, again....huge congrats and VERY excited on your success. AND.....to do it in Maine I think had got to be harder than down here in NJ, so ever more props on that. Hit me up on IG @keepinit.reel.fishing. Send me a few pics of this epic catch!
I appreciate all of that so much! You have no idea. You, tactical bassin and bigbassdreams have been idols for me during this journey. You were the most relatable to me. By a long shot. Lower budget, same dream. And we both achieved it! So happy to say hard work pays off. The fish was caught Thursday the 15th. 2:43PM. I will definitely dm you the post! Mainelunkers when you see it in your dms. Can’t emphasize enough how much of a role you played in my fishing, in my motivation to commit to big baits. Thank you for your amazing channel.
Thanks to this extensive video. I now have this reel! Thank you brother
Your welcome! Glad the video helped you with your decision.
Newman still has and uses his OG Cardiff reels. I fished with him 3 days ago and his primary Huddleston reel is a Calcutta 300 D Series. Told me he prefers the smoothness.
Great review brother!!!
Thanks Dennis! Glad you liked it, hoped it was beneficial for ya.
Surprise surprise the king is back!!!!
Great video! Always enjoy your detailed reviews.
Thank for watching and leaving the comment. Tight lines!
Good to see you making videos again I'm on board ....
Very nice. Answered a lot of my questions. Thank you
Thanks for the review! Picked one up and was looking for a good run down on the features and you nailed it! Great tips!
Great video man. 👍🏼😎 I have a Cardiff 401A hopefully arriving in the mail tomorrow haha and I’m just trying to get more knowledge on it and this video gave me quite a bit more. I appreciate it. 👊🏼😊
another great review wish you did more love all of your videos thanks for sharing
Thanks for stopping by and watching Victor. Appreciate it man. I wish I did more too.....just a bit busy.
I bought my 401a around 2006 or so and love it!
🏆🏆That Reel reminds me so much of my Calcutta 400,and I had it for over 10 years and never a problem,awesome job on the review Karl 💪👊
Yeah man.....they last for an inexpensive reel. Thanks for watching Ken.
I recently lost my Calcutta 200B. Yes, lost--as in misplaced. Unfortunately, I am not as financially stable as I was over 15 years ago and have been eyeing the Cardiff as a "replacement." How do you feel it compares to the Calcutta?
@@erinjayne5141 I haven’t fished that reel so I can’t give you an honest opinion on it brother 🤷
Caught a 35# yellowfin on my 400a just this past September. Been using mine for about 10 years in the salt. One of my favorite reels
Thank you for this!
Missed you brotha. Great to see you back!
I own a 300. My only issue was the short handle. Ordered a longer one with no problem. I absolutly love this reel. Many parts available too.
Have another in my cart for a different swimbait rod I am looking into. Tempted to order the calcutta, but for the price I cant help but love the Cardiff.
I have a cardiff on all 4 of my swimbait set ups. I love them
I remember you mentioning this review being in the works and being so excited because I love this reel. Haven’t even watched this yet but I know it’ll be a good one.
i have 5 cardiffs , all made in japan - without question the very best 100 dollar reel of all time
Yes new upload thx Carl enjoyed the video! I was just searching your channel yesterday trying to find the video where you mention the name of the company that you sent your scale to be calibrated. I'd like to send mine out this winter to be calibrated.
Hey Victor. IGFA - International Game Fish Association. They are the organization who are the record keepers of all world record fish. igfa.org/scale-certification/
@@KeepinItReelFishing thank you Carl
Thanks very much for this review and seasons greetings 🙏
Man I missed your in-depth videos! Thanks for the great info 🎣🤟
Great review!
Thank you Old Grove!
Always love your reviews!
Unless someone already mentioned it…. A lot of reels today as I’m sure your aware of, the level wind spins while casting keeping the line “ inline “ with the level wind.
I have a theory, once you spool up your reel, don’t touch the handle until you have tied your rig or lures to it. Keeping the level wind and the line on the spool In sync, thus making your cast go further.
What I have found while casting is there is not much of a difference between casting a reel with or without a level wind if the spool is in sync with the level wind.
It's about time 😀 wonderd what happened to you lovely video really enjoyed it thanks 👍
I love these reels, I catch 60lbs and up red drum and striper on mine and they are great. I remove the level wind and casting is amazing. I've run two of these for about ten years.
u think it’ll work for a sturgeon rod?
@@pxpancake9645 I've never seen a sturgeon alive and haven't caught one but I'm sure they can handle one.
Was wondering when you'd Pop up again.
Sees the total time of the video...I'm in!
Ha ha. Snack and beverage required!
Great stuff on the Cardiff! I have 2-300 models and 1-400 model. Great reels especially for their price tag. I use it for black fishing up in CT. Nice informative video, you don’t see too many on the Cardiff series.
just checed ebay, it retails up to $1.3K. that is insane unless it's timeless tool made of diamond
Thanks for the great video on the Cardiff. Only good one I could find.
Ordered 301 same as yours on eBay yesterday. Found it new in France of all places. Should be interesting as I only have Chronarchs D7s and Curados , MGL Chronarchs and older Scorpions. All low profile
I love it... This reel is my favorite !!!
I bought 4 200's for $50.00 each at a sporting goods store when they had a 50% off sale and thought i would give them to my kids to get them started in bait casting...sorry kids, i have them rigged up on some of my stripper and steelhead rods...i love them, they are comfortable and durable, I have been looking at Curados which i have two 150's, but i may buy a couple of Cardiff 300's. thanks for the video
ohh man your Custom rod kinda like a Sword handle. i love that.!💥
They are good rods....I mean REALLY good rods. This is actually a series they call the "White Label", which is rather plain in terms of looks and sold as is (no customization). Which, is an anomaly because like the company name suggests (Low Down Customs) pretty much everything else they do is completely custom as per the customers design and component choices.
pure work horse reel
Picked up the 400 ,on a ugly stick coastal today for $ 30.00 at a pawn shop, never touched one till today i am a believer looking to buy more of them, i am sold.
I own a 300 size and it's a winch that casts very nice and is far more refined than my Abu Garcia's. There's more than a few low profiles in my collection, but there's just something about a well built round reel. But they aren't an entry level reel, at least around here and cost significantly more than my C3 when new.
Good horse of a reel. I think it feel pretty expensive, even today. I have used mine a lot, for bottom fishing. Overall pretty reliable. The only weakness is that damn thumb bar, that they chose to attach only on one side. Also on the bigger models the clicker can get issues with time. But the gears and frame are solid and smooth even by today's standards
Never had 1 problem with either of my Corvalus 401' (only model is the 400/401 that has the clicker),they're the same reel but Cardiff is intended for salt so they have some extra seals and maybe different bearings.Had them for a number of years and use them for Catfish and some in the salt.
Only thing I have done to them is add Callcutta handles.
Great review and video. I have all 3 sizes in LH bought the year they came out. 301 is used for A-rigs and 201 on the junk setup (1/4‐2oz). Never change the brake setting but was curious so I looked and yep 2 brakes on.
The Cardiff I owned is the Shimano Cardiff CI4+ 2000SS spinning reel
Is this good for salmon fishing with a 7/8 oz lure
mine comes in from tacklewarehouse tomorrow
"There awesome reels I own a 100 size Cardiff made in Japan and it's 🔥"
I landed 25+ dorado on my Cardiff... Im thinking of getting a new one now... what rod are you using for big top waters like Lunker Punkers?? awesome channel!!
Congrats Al on the solid Dorado. For all my treble hook lures I prefer my LDC (Low Down Customs) White Label. Mine is in a XH power, rated at 3-8oz and of particular interest is its taper....its a slow action. I personally know of no other rods made to handle the big baits that are so parabolic. I also have a Savage Gear Browser XH. Its a bit easier to work things like the Punker, but the soft tip quickly transitions into a much more solid backbone due to its mod/fast taper. Some may prefer that, but for me, on anything with trebles, I like as much cushioning in my system as possible and the LDC affords that.
@@KeepinItReelFishing thanks man … I went full bore into fly fishing the last ten years but missing my roots! BIG BAITS! I have a lamiglas big bait special, but the tip is a little faster then I like for the punker … I will definitely look up your suggestions for rods
@@KeepinItReelFishing LDC … all sold out! Must be legit!
@@alansarpy Oh yeah, I should have warned you. His stuff is extremely popular....its Butch Brown's (if your familiar with him) rod maker of choice. He does a ton of custom rods....thats really his go to. But, sporadically he will put up batches of what he calls the White Label, which is essentially giving you what really matters (the unique blank) and the rest of the rod is very simple/no frills. (VS all the custom stuff he is known for). Check out Swimbait Underground for reviews. There are a lot of fan boys, but if you search you will also find legitimate reviews from objective folks as well. I can tell you that it is my favorite big bait rod by a very large margin. I have also heard that if you contact the owner of LDC (name is Ben) you can order a White Label even though he does not have them on the website.
@@KeepinItReelFishing wow awesome! Thank You
I'm sold! Pulling the trigger in about a week or two. What would be an economical rod pairing with this reel? Great video btw. Love your style
Hey Mission (cool name btw) - thank you for the kind words. The rod is going to be based on what size (really what weight) baits you plan to throw. Typically with swimbaits there are 3 steps to the rods, something like a 1-4oz, a 2-7oz, and a 4-10oz. The 2-7 will be the most versatile, assuming you have, or plan to have a mix of baits in the range. I know when starting out though a lot of people are wary of going right into those 8" and up 4oz+ lures. If you plan to start with things in the smaller 5-7" range and 1-4oz the lighter swimbait rod is ideal. As an aside I threw my 8" Huddlestons on one of those lighter rods (rated to 5oz max) for a few years before getting an "appropriate" rod. As long as you reel up that slack and swing HARD you will still move those big baits and typically get the hook set.
@@KeepinItReelFishing thank you for the prompt and definitive answer. My only experience so far is with big bbz rat and a live target bluegill. But like you I've experienced more 5 lbers and mid and high 4's with a bigger bait. With the rats I've done great 2.5 ounces throwing with a Abu garcia 6500 synchro. ( musky reel) but it cast like a dream. I like the round reel and you had me at "working man's"..lol .. You sold me on the g2 shellcracker which is on it's way and the Hud deluxe 68 perch also on it's way. My go too is buzzbait but I'm transitioning in your footsteps to the bigger baits.
Thanks again for the reply
@@jhnnyboy100 Your welcome man. Yeah, those G2 Shellcrackers are a really fantastic small-ish bait, and like I said in the review on them, they statistically have gotten me more 5+lb bass than other wakes/cranks in that size have. Good choice with the 68 in perch too. I just picked up a couple more this year as well. I totally understand the transition part. I got lucky as heck and got my old PB of 6lbs 6oz came only on only my second trip throwing the 8" Huddleston. That lure looked SO big, and while I knew bass could eat it, until I saw it totally swallowed on the end of MY line I still had that mental reluctance. That bite happening so quickly gave me confidence to throw that 8" model the rest of the year, which I don't know how committed I would have been otherwise. But, thankfully I did as I caught one just one ounce less at 6lb 5oz later that same year.
Hello! Nice review!
Do you know the spool diameter?
24inch per crank 5,8:1 equates to 33,5 mm spool, that sounds really small for a 300 reel...
But i also know that shimano not always use a "full spool" as basis for calculating line retrieve.
I see this reel in 200 size as a good no nonsense round reel.
I think the 200-300 is the same size, just narrover frame/ spool for the 200?
Tight lines!
where can i get a similar rod ? looks so good!
Surprised you still don't own a z2020 or any of the newer Conquest, be it the DC or standard.
What size line u use for your swim bait
Would you mind going over what line you're running on some of your swimbait setups?
Sure. On most of them I use either 65lb or 50lb braid (depends on capacity of spool) to a leader in the 15lb to 20lb range. I'll use either mono or fluoro. Fluoro if its a jig hook bait (especially weedless) to help in setting the hook, or mono if its a treble hook bait where I want a little stretch in the system and the hooks are easily set. I use the Alberto knot to join all braid to leader connections, with a little superglue, or preferably Loon's UV Knot Sense. In super clear water (gin clear) water the leader is more of a top shot in that I make it crazy long.....like 50ft. For most applications though in water with any stain I run leaders in the 6ft - 10ft range.
Corvalus is the same reel......the Cardiff has seals etc. for saltwater and you're spending more $$ on something you don't need if you only fish freshwater.
Don't really need a Cardiff in the salt though...if you're not dunking it in the water,sand,and wash your gear after each use.
I use the Corvalus 401's (only size that has the bait alarm) for both fresh (Catfish) and salt.
Brakes,who uses anything but the spool tensioner? Been using conv/round/baitcasting reels since the 80's and I don't use a brake.Only reason I use the tensioner is in case I pull my thumb off the spool before casting or the bar gets bumped and releases the spool.
Excellent ty
Love your videos man. I just picked up a Cardiff 300 and was curious your opinion on a decent 2 piece swimbait rod to pair with it? I'm looking to throw those 8in hudlestons or something similar from my 14ft Radisson up in the Adirondacks for some big bass and pike.
Hey, I’m curious what type of line you use? I’m planning on using mine for swim baits as well.
This is darling baitcaster of East Europe pike fisherman using big jerkbaits.Cheap and strong,not to bulky and not much problems with beard nests.
Can this reel be useful on medium-medium heavy rods for pike fishing
I live in Jersey like you, I was wondering how you find you fishing spots? Do you have a list of good places I could have?
I have that reel and it's given me some problems. First the lock ring on the outside of the handle that goes on the nut somehow broke. Then for some reason it just stopped casting - I could reel the line in but when I went to go cast the spool wouldn't spin. Must have gotten a bad one. Have you tried the CONCEPT A3 (or newer GEN II version) for big swimbaits?
Hey Dan - yeah, that sucks man, but as a mechanical device invariably some will develop malfunctions. I have a high end reel and a mid range reel that have broke on me over the years. I have tried the A3....made a video review on it as a matter of fact. ruclips.net/video/5_IDAyAu-cs/видео.html I don't have the second generation though. In terms of 300 size reels I also own the Shimano Curado 301, Daiwa Ryoga 2020, and 13 Fishing Z3.
Great video. Just got one myself, but notice when I pull the drag the level wind doesn’t move, and all precious baitcasters have… is this correct or a faulty reel??
Hey Ryan - no, its not defective. The Cardiff has a disengaging level wind....aka, it locks in position during the cast.
@@KeepinItReelFishing really appreciate the quick response. Thanks from the UK
Have you looked into swapping out the handle?
I have not, but I know others have swapped theirs. "Short" handles don't bother me, in fact todays 100mm+ handles I find somewhat cumbersome to reel.
I swapped mine with Calcutta handles....I am using the Corvalus 401's though,same reel as Cardiff but for freshwater and 400/401 (Cardiff and Corvalus) is the only models that have the bait alarm.
Could you tell mee information on the original 300 Cardiff. I have one but have no information. Could I use it on a head boat for fluke.
I sold my Cardiff 300 and got piscufun chaos xs much better real cast way smoother 50 size comes with big handle also alot cheaper . Also comes apart same way as Cardiff , has 6 pin centrifugal brakes
lol getting rid of a shimano to get yourself a noname brand made in someone's basement in China.
Nope piscifun is a slept on brand kiddo , I have the csx carbon and aljuos 300 and yet to buy a reel that competes in preformence , that's including a calcutta
Would be interested on your impressions of those Profishiency Krazy reels.
LOL They're just overpriced POS chinese reels with a paint job...those off-brands aren't worth a dime,save a lil longer and get a brand-name like Shimano,Daiwa,Penn.
Buy once and save yourself $$ in the long run.
Which Cardiff would balance with St.Croix 7'6" mh Triumph musky rod. I will throw 3/4 Oz. Bucktails micro cowgirls, 5 to 6 inch Kietechs.
Cardiff is really tough, I have a 201 for 12 years. What rod did you use for the video? Does it have a soft tip to load the cast?
Hey man do you think it would work with a 6th sense Milliken series 7’ 9 swimbait rod???
Of course WV. You can pair it to most any rod within reason. But yes, a long-ish (7'9") rod made to handle swimbait weights goes hand and hand with this, or any other 300 (or 200) size reel.
@@KeepinItReelFishing ok thx
Hey buddy great video. What rod are you using?
Thank you! Most of what I show it on is the LDC (Low Down Customs) White Label XH. There is also some footage of it being used on the Savage Gear Browswer XH.
When I tighten my cast control right up my lures are still sliding down pretty quick even with light lures. Does anyone know why this is?
Can someone point me to a video or article on the difference between a machine built reel and not ????
I don’t like it in my opinion but maybe it’s because I’m spoiled with a Calcutta 200 size and I haven’t been able to switch back
Where did you buy it for $100 bucks?
Would this be good for catfish
Absolutely - from what I have seen over the years its used by many big catfish anglers.
I use the 401 Corvalus (same reel but for freshwater,Cardiff is intended for salt) as it's the only models 400/401 that has the bait clicker.
👌LEFTIES ON EBAY ARE ALWAYS THE CHEAPEST!🙌 RIGHT HANDS WON'T BE THAT CHEAP. FINE AND DANDY....but, I have a dozen Ryoga's and ''you wouldn't believe what we put it thru the other day when a 5 pound fish turned into a 100 pounder. ON A BIG topwater, you would have FREAKED!!!!! (won't spam ya with the link here...hahaha) Yes, this reel would work for charter customers at that price cause I'd need 6-8 of them. 📌📌FYI TO ALL YOUR VIEWERS KARL GOT ME HOOKED ON THE DAIWA RYOGA, and yes not for the faint of heart cost wise, or casting wise, and durability wise. And I'm in saltwater ❗
Hey Dave - hope your doing well man. How has your year been business wise? People going out more to get away from everyone and to the 'safety' of the water?
@@KeepinItReelFishing looking forward to the next China attack! (kidding of course) Id personally would get satisfaction taking out a CCP official myself! Business hasn't slacked one bit. Bought a 20k outboard right in the middle of the BS, on May 8th, and it's already 1/2 paid off! !Boat sales this summer at local dealerships setting sales records. People have $$, and I know who we can thank for that!...and his name ain't Joe. Busy, busy, Florida is open, Gov. DeSantis ain't playing games with the Wu-Flu or Antifa or BLM bullshit either. I'm ready, come march yer azz down my street!
The 400a only comes in 5.2:1 ratio just fyi
Anyone know what size handle I need to order? Trying to upgrade to a power handle
Old comment but maybe this will help others....
Don't try to use those POS chinese handles.....all you'll do is waste time and $$ and still won't have a handle.
Pick up a handle for a Calcutta. Shimano part # BNT 3369
Reuse your old nut and nut cover/lock.
@@rider660r u r a god, upgraded since!!
FYI nov 29 a 9.9 caught in mass on a bico jig
Saltwater approved?
I use mines for red drum it never let me down
Yes The Cardiff is intended for salt.The Corvalus is the same but intended for freshwater although I have used mine in salt numerous times....just wash them after each use...as any reel whether intended for salt or not.
Thanks because you are beautiful for showing this 🙏
Bought mine last year and it's already broken after barely using it...TRASH
Sorry to hear that Al, its not the norm, but occasionally things happen.
"inexpensive" not cheap just sayin
Like looks of those i like to burn my baits back 😅 have to work super hard but like ya said if ya had to you can and work slow