Which reel for jigging NE tuna? Accurates & Avets

[puroagave]

Looking for a small conventional single speed jigging reel for yellowfin and bluefin up to ~125lbs(hopefully a few bigger). I am looking at the Avet HXJ raptor, Accurate BX2-600NN or 665-NN. I will probably use 65lb line, max 25-28lbs drag if needed (big eye's possibly)

[Jared D]

I have used several avets, no complaints about them... they have held up well to the AJs and various bottom dwellers around here. Not sure if I used the model you mentioned.

I own an Accurate. Its great but I have some issues w it as well. Mine is an 870XM so I know its not the one you mentioned... but here's my opinion.
1. Drag is not as stout as I expected or wanted. I can get about 22 pounds out of it, max before binding. When I go that high, every several moves from free to stike makes the drag "bump up a bit" to the point where it begins binding, and I have to go to free to reduce a tad.

I also regret getting the high speed (6.3:1) ratio. I would have preferred something w more torque. W bluefins, I would go as low gear as possible unless you need something that will make your lure move quickly. Even if you need high speed, I would recommend a 2 speed so you have the torque. It makes all the difference in the world w a big fish.

[mythosbeer]

Jared, you need a new cam spring in your Accurate. The drag shouldn't bump up like that and I get more drag out of my 270 than you do your 870. It needs to be sent to Accurate.

Puroagave: I would go with the accurate over the Avet. The Avet will not give you the drag the accurate will. Avets are known for binding under low drag pressure. For a lot of fishing this isn't a big deal, but for bluefins, you don't want your drag lacking. I have the 665nn and I love the reel, but for bluefin I would also look at the 665n and the 600n. Some other quality reels to look at are jigging master PE reels, Daiwa Saltiga, Shimano Ocea jigger, among others. I'm sure I am missing some, but accurate, JM, Saltiga, and Ocea Jiggers have all been known to handle bluefin just fine.

mitch

[mythosbeer]

If line capacity isn't an issue then the extra narrow accurates will work great.

Mitch

[Basspond]

Don't overlook the JM (Jigging Master) reels. They are amazing little reels.

[jig42na]

You are faced with a tough decision here. Hers my order preference. My first pic if your budget allows is a Jigging Master PE7 or PE8 reel. I currently use the PE5 and PE7. They have been bullet proof in everyway.

As for the Avet vs Accurate I pick Avet. I've fished both and heres my quick take on them. The Avet is not as nice, heavier, less drag (older models), and does not have all the same sizes available as accurate. But, Avet's have not failed me ever other than bearings starting to go. My accurates (which I love) have all failed. They just do not seem to have what it takes to handle any type of abuse or stress. I have 3 Avets oldest being 7years and none have gone back to Avet. I have done my own maint though. I had 3 Accurates, all needed to go back to them more than once.

I do not want to steer you in anyway, but these are my experiences. Also Shimano makes a single speed Talica that seems very nice that I want to try but I have a hard time picking up anything conv other than the JM PE reels.