One thing we've learned over the years is that simply dropping ceramic bearings into a traditional reel doesn't guarantee improved handling or performance. While the difference in feel is noticeable right away, optimizing casting performance requires adjustments to the spool and casting system to align with the unique characteristics of ceramic bearings.

Time to put the prototype T100 to work. It only took a few casts to realize how exceptional this reel casts. It does emit a higher pitched sound than most other reels due to the use of ceramic bearings, but I personally dig it

According to the Trika designers, this process took over eight months and led to numerous changes in the magnetic cast control and spool design. To achieve the ideal balance of weight and strength, they even opted for a hardened titanium shaft.

The design of the T100's ceramic-magnetic-titanium cast system is rooted in science, advanced materials, and precise physics. This sophisticated system supports the aluminum spool and enhances casting performance. After testing the prototype reel over the past few months, I can confidently say that the T100's execution is impressive. It's easy to dial in, offers a distinctive feel and sound, and excels in casting long distances with baits weighing 1/8 oz. and above.

While the T100 is capable of BFS (Bait Finesse System) with lighter lines, it truly shines in mid-range applications and power fishing. Despite its compact size, the baitcaster feels very solid under load and is even capable of bombing mid-sized swimbaits with ease.

First fish caught fishing plastics with the T100

The more I fished the T100 prototype reel the smoother and better the reel felt, both when casting and during retrieves, as the ceramic bearings got worked in. I also started to notice additional details that seemed like overkill in a bass reel. For instance, the line guide is anything but traditional and is not some lightweight alloy and plastic, and appears to be a machined aluminum, matching the rigidity and toughness of the CNC frame.

There are a lot of "overkill" elements in the T100 like the machined line guide... and why not? This reel is built like a little tank

We will delve into the gearing specifics in the full review of the production T100, but it's worth noting that the reel boasts several premium internal features. These include hard-anodized alloy gears that are Teflon-impregnated to maintain smooth performance over time without the need for grease, and drag washers made of polished titanium to better resist thermal expansion.

Fishing giant bladed jigs like the Donkey Bait Co. Donkey Slayer on the T100. I was able to spool the reel with the 3/4oz. baits easily

I wondered why the T100 was engineered with such an emphasis on durability and learned that the Trika team continually tested the reel on larger species to over-engineer it for traditional bass applications. For example, early prototypes failed under the strain of big redfish, leading to the switch from plastic to the aluminum line guide seen in this prototype and the production models.

Ergonomics with this reel are excellent

In terms of ergonomics, the T100 is outstanding. It fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, much like the Bates Hundo. While the T100 features a more angular design in most areas, the top of the reel is pleasantly rounded. Weighing only 5.6 ounces, the T100 feels exceptionally solid and well-built. Gotta love those CNC-framed reels!

The T100 sits very low on rods making it even easier to palm

Although designed by different teams, and with distinct internal components, it's quite likely that both the Bates Hundo and Trika T100 are produced in the same factory. Many reel manufacturers, aside from Shimano and Daiwa, don't run their own factories and instead design their reels in-house while having them manufactured overseas. Despite their superficial similarities, the Hundo and T100 offer very different personalities and performances, largely due to their differing bearings, gearing, and drag systems.

The T100 feels solid and high end. Like the Hundo machining marks are visable on the main frame and under the feet reminding anglers this reel is machined from bar stock

Cosmetically, I prefer the darker finish of the final reel over the silver prototype I've been testing. The darker color not only gives the T100 a unique style but also pairs well with most rods, including Trika's own 3X and 6X Series rods.

The mass production reel with be anodized a darker gunmetal grey

The dark finish gives the T100 a completely different, more tactical, style and also has the added benefit of adding some additional scratch protection courtesy of the additional anodizing.  Although the cast control knob is blacked out, the subtle orange accents on the handles, spool, and knobs still serve as a distinctive reminder that this is a Trika branded product.

The final reel also gets flatter more ergonomic paddle style knobs

The Trika team has locked in the final reel and is initiating mass production . While they haven't confirmed exactly when it will hit the market we believe that it is coming soon, and will likely be available for anglers later this season. 

Over time the T100 got quieter, smoother, and even better casting as the ceramic bearings got worked in

As we await the mass production of the T100 for a full review, the prototype indicates that Trika might have a potential winner on its hands. If the final product matches or surpasses the prototype's performance, Trika could establish itself as a serious contender in the reel market and attract customers from established brands. The combination of high-performance full ceramic components and an aggressive price point of just $299 makes the T100 particularly intriguing.

Trika has a real winner with the new T100. If the mass production reel is as good as the prototype has been this will be a game changer for the brand

Like their rods, Trika has somehow managed to keep production costs low, making it impressive that they've packed so many features and refinements into a sub $300 reel. The Trika T100 isn't just a great match for the company's own rods; it could be a game-changer for the brand. With its solid build, ceramic-enhanced casting system, precision machining, excellent ergonomics, and added durability - all for just three hundred dollars - Trika is making a bold move in a hotly contested segment, and rightly so, as fortune often favors the bold. We're eager to see the final T100 in action and curious about what innovations this tackle company will introduce next. Bring on the ceramics!