Tackle Junkie: Daiwa PX BF70 Fishing Reel

• In this episode of Tackle Junkie (above), Game & Fish contributor Shane Beilue puts Daiwa’s new PX BF70 reel to the test.

---

When I saw my first bait finesse reel a few years ago, I wasn’t sure of the practical application of these highly specialized baitcasting reels. However, upon putting several BF reels to use in the last several months, the superior cast control they provide when fishing shallow cover has me replacing much of my spinning gear.

Most recently, I’ve been testing the new PX BF70 reel from Daiwa. I’ve found that it has all the precision and tight tolerances bass anglers have come to expect from the legendary reel maker, but also incorporates the specialized spool technology required for casting ultra-light lures.

Upon unboxing the PX reel, I was drawn to the large, 90-mm cranking handle, maintaining the familiar feel and performance of a traditional baitcaster in a size-70 frame weighing 5.6 ounces. Daiwa’s popular T-Wing System, which reduces line friction during the cast, is also found on the PX bait finesse reel.

Of course, most of the technology in any bait finesse reel centers around the highly specialized spool. Daiwa incorporates an ultra-lightweight A7075 Air spool, which has exceptionally easy startup inertia for casting finesse lures less than 1/8 ounce.

Cast control for the reel is managed by Daiwa’s Zero Adjuster spool tension knob combined with the magnetic cast control dial on the palm plate. Aside from small tweaks to the magnetic dial in changing wind conditions, my experience with cast control throughout the 6 weeks of testing found virtually no backlashes.

Perhaps my favorite feature of the new Daiwa PX reel is the UTD—Ultimate Tournament Drag. It maintains incredible smoothness when working finesse lines of 4- to 6-pound test, yet also allows me to tighten the drag to direct fish away from shallow cover when upgrading to 10-pound braid.

Of course, no angler is “leaning hard” on a fish with bait finesse tackle, but maintaining just enough tension to direct a fish into open water is a welcome feature with this bait finesse reel.

Daiwa offers the PX BF70 in 7.1:1 and 8.6:1 retrieves. Right and left-hand models are available; however, the left-hand model is only offered in the 8.6:1 retrieve. The reel holds 50 yards of 8-pound fluorocarbon and retails for $349.99.

If you’re looking to get into bait finesse for the first time, or looking to upgrade an existing tackle setup, the Daiwa PX BF70 is a worthy addition to your arsenal.

---

• Shane Beilue is the host of Game & Fish's “Bass Crash Course" video series. Watch episodes here.