Redesigned and Still Affordable - Pflueger's President XT Reels and Rods

Introduction: Building on the success of the President XT spinning reels, Pflueger has refreshed their President XT low-profile lineup. These new reels are designed to deliver enhanced performance at an affordable price. To complement the reels, Pflueger is also introducing new President XT rods and even a few rod-and-reel combos.

President XT Baitcaster: Pure Fishing has so many brands in their portfolio that it is easy to lose track of all the reel and rod brands in their lineup. In the last few seasons the Abu Garcia lineup has significantly grown in popularity among tournament anglers and a new generation of fishermen looking for the latest technology. Last season Fenwick delivered a massive refresh that made the brand relevant once again, ushering the next chapter for the storied brand with completely redesigned rods that deliver the best performance and ergonomics that brand has ever seen. This Fall it is Pflueger's turn and following the redesign of the spinning reels the company is refreshing their low-profile reels and launching President XT rods to pair with them.

Pflueger redesigns the President XT low-profile reels

The new low-profile reels feature a similar dark blue-black finish with silver highlights. The cork knobs on the reel pay homage to the brand's legacy but the more aggressive angles of the reels remind anglers that this generation of Pflueger reels are designed with modern styling and features.

The new reels feature clean aggressive lines and cork knobs

The Pflueger XT baitcasters weigh in at 7.3oz. and are constructed with graphite frames and sideplates. They are available in both 6.8:1 and 7.5:1 gear ratios and feature an upgrades carbon matrix drag system that is rated at 15lbs. of pressure.

The casting system is magnetic and externally adjustable

Cast controls are magnetic and can be adjusted externally via a dial on the non-handle sideplate. The spool is made from machined aluminum and so are the reel's handle and drag star.

Pflueger has designed the President XT to be an everyday workhorse reel and at the hear of the reel are precision cut brass gears. Like previous generation President reels Pflueger's goal is to offer a lot of bang for the buck and this new reel continues to do that with an aggressive price of only $99.95.

Pflueger is also introducing new President XT rods which feature 24/30 ton graphite and split grip designs

Pflueger XT Rods and Combos: While we believe that some of the Fenwick rods would pair very nicely with the new President XT low-profile reel Pflueger is introducing new rods so that anglers can keep it all in the family should they choose. The new Pflueger rods feature similar dark matte cosmetics and are developed for a wide variety of techniques catering to bass, walleye, trout, and panfish anglers. They are built with 24/30 ton carbon blanks and finished with custom reel seats and stainless steel guides with zirconium reel seats. The rods are available separately starting this month for only $79.99 each.

The new rods are a nice pairing with the President XT reels both in styling and ergonomics

Anglers looking for a complete solution at an even more aggressive price can consider Pflueger President XT combos with these rods. They will be available in both right and left hand configurations and retail for $169.99 each.

There will also be new President spinning combos for the same $169.99 price

With the launch of the new low-profile reels and rods the company will also be making spinning President spinning combos available with 20, 25, 30, 25, and 40 sizes available for the same $169.99 price, making it possible for anglers to target everything from panfish to inshore species with an affordable combo right off the shelf.

Our Quick Take: The new Pflueger low-profile reels have a lot going for them. While I would have preferred an aluminum center frame instead of graphite, it's hard to fault the reel at its aggressive $99 price point. The styling, though not radical, stays true to the brand’s identity, and the cork handles add a touch of tradition, making them a natural match for the new President XT reels. Beyond their good looks, the real standout feature of the updated Pflueger reels and rods is the continuing tradition of providing strong value to anglers.

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