Premium Fly-Reel Performance: Bauer M3 Large Arbor Reel
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Date: |
2/19/02 |
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Tackle type: |
Fly Reel |
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Manufacturer: |
Bauer |
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Reviewer: |
Buzz |
Total Score: 8.6
Introduction: At TT we support all different types of methods of taking
big game fish. If Fly-Fishing is your niche, then here’s our first in depth
look at a fly-reel. There is nothing quite like bringing in trophy fish on a
fly-rod and if you have done it before then you know exactly what I’m talking
about. When I first looked at fishing with a large arbor reel I didn’t really
know what to expect, but after using the Bauer M3, I can tell you that this reel
is second to none.
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Bauer M3
Specifications |
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Line Capacity |
150 yds. WF #8 line |
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Diameter |
3.75" |
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Width |
1.37" |
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Weight |
6.8oz. |
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MSRP |
$330.00 |
Impressions: My
first impression of the Bauer M3 reel was that it was big and maybe a little
bulky, but after using it I can tell you that using a large arbor reel for big
game fish has many advantages over conventional reels. With a MSRP of $330,
many fishing enthusiasts will not be attracted to the price, however if you must
have the best tackle on the market the Bauer reel is an option that you just
cannot overlook.
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The M3 is a
beautiful simple yet sophisticated reel using only the best materials
(notice the drag control is on the same side as the knob) |
What is a large arbor reel?: A large arbor reel is a fly reel with a spool
that is very large in diameter and is wider than most conventional fly-reels.
It offers many distinct advantages that deserved to be mentioned:
1) It allows for
quick line retrieval that comes in handy when having to reel in fast as a fish
in running back at you.
2) Also provides
consistent drag pressure that is consistent whether you have a little bit of
line in the water, or are deep into your backing.
3) Improves the
overall handling of managing your line
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The reel has
anodized finishing which is very resistant to the elements |
The Bauer reel
is comprised of a deep anodized black finish that provides maximum resistance to
corrosion. Bauer definitely hit a homerun putting its drag control on the same
side as the reel knob. The star drag adjustment knob allows you to adjust the
drag tension without having to reach around the reel, or switching hands as
reels with conventional drag systems. Stainless steel bearings, and aerospace
bar stock aluminum components make this reel lighter than it appears, a big plus
for fishing long days
The Real World Test:
I have had the pleasure to
test this reel primarily on big waters such as the Lower Sacramento River and
Feather River. The large arbor allows for quick line retrieval, and a line
carrying capacity that conventional reels just can’t match up to. The result is
a better hook-up to land ratio. After all, it’s not how many fish you hook
into; it’s how many make it into the net.
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 |
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The guts of
the M3 show the Teflon and cork drag system |
The Weight of
this reel is very deceiving when looking at its size. At 6.8 ounces it balances
perfectly on a 7 or 8 weight rod. I immediately noticed that managing your line
while a fish is running is much easier on a large arbor reel like the Bauer M3.
If you have the cash to fork over you can immediately expect to be releasing
more fish consistently.
Tightening or
loosening the drag is a cinch with the same side drag dial of this reel. You
can actually tighten or loosen the drag with one finger on the 5 star knob. The
Bauer M3 has been a problem free, hassle free, piece of equipment every single
time I have used it.
Ratings:
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Bauer M3
Ratings (?/10) |
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Construction/Quality |
State of the art aluminum and stainless steel
ball bearings in a solid frame make the M3 construction top notch |
9 |
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Performance |
Outstanding performance across the board |
9 |
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Price |
If you are fishing on a budget, don't get
hooked on this reel, but if price is not a major factor...definitely take a
look |
7 |
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Features |
Teflon ball bearings, large diameter disc
drag, and a high gloss anodized finish...all measures of flawless form
function with a touch of aesthetic appeal |
9.5 |
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Design (Ergonomics) |
A good balance of all elements, easy to fish
with and comfortable |
9 |
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Application |
This reel is perfect for
any 7 or 8 weight rod on the market. To maximize this reel’s performance it
is a must that you be targeting big game fish such as salmon, bonefish,
stripers, large Trout, or steelhead. Putting this reel on any rod smaller
just doesn’t use this reel to it’s fullest potential |
8.5 |
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Total Score |
8.6 |
Pluses and Minuses:
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Plus
Minus |
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J
Premium look and feel |
L
Just a tad expensive |
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J
Smooth retrieve and drag |
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J
Disc Drag = constant pressure |
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J
Superior Quality |
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Conclusion: If
your fishing for trophy fish, the Bauer reel should be a top priority in your
decision set. The fact that Bauer offers a lifetime warranty gives an
indication that they expect this reel to last as long as you do. Outfitted with
premium features all the way around, the Bauer M3 proves to be at the top of
it’s class. When I used this reel I immediately noticed that I started landing
more fish. The large arbor gives you a greater margin of error for keeping the
line taught especially when the fish is streaking back towards you. 3 rotations
of the handle and you just reeled in over 2 feet of line, no matter how far into
your baking you are. Put the Bauer M3 on any 7 or 8 weight rod and you just
increased your chances of landing that trophy. Try it and you’ll know exactly
what I mean.
