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[andrew5]

Hi All,

Going into my second season with this reel. I used it maybe a dozen times. Took it out to the Cap to try for a coho and noticed that it was having trouble casting. I had pencil lead under a float, so some weight was on it. I noticed that the line had a lot of memory, so i will get some new line, but can this be the main reason why it is feeling so awkward casting? Also, it has 20lb test line on it, which today I was told was too heavy a line for it, but it seemed to work well last year for me.

Any suggestions on how I can get this to an optimum operating level?

Also, I want to get set up for bar fishing this year. Considering the fact that money is tight, could i get by with this reel and my Shimano technium 10-20 graphite rod on the upper Fraser?

if not, then suggestions for a serviceable bar setup rod and reel combo would also be greatly appreciated.

Apologies for the multitude of questions, but I am still learning and this place has always provided good insight.

[brysonk]

If you are using the same line you had on it last year then yes I would definitely re-spool it with some new line. 20 lb is fine for that reel not sure who told you it wasn't. I prefer using the Suffix Siege or elite mono line on my levelwind reel. I feel they last the longest and have the least memory of all the lines I've tried. I usually re-spool every 8-12 trips  or so either way.

May I also suggest disassembling and cleaning your reel on a regular basis. It will really help keep your reel working smoothly and will alert you to any problems or parts that are wearing out. Better to replace them before they fail then for it to fail while fishing and ruin your day. Also make sure you are adjusting your spool brake properly for the amount of weight you are casting. Once you get better at it you can back the brake right off and use your thumb to regulate your spool and cast much farther.

As far as bar fishing goes the reel will work but the rod might be a little light. You will also need heavier line and on that reel will probably have to go to a braided line in the 40-65lb range. If you can find a heavy casting shimano convergence they are a cheap but very effective rod for the budget conscious. I think wholesale sports in langley has them on sale for 55 bucks or close to it.

If you are bar fishing the fraser I definitely suggest cleaning your reel more often and rinsing off after every trip. This also goes for any of the dirtier water ways.

Good luck

[milo]

I'll second everything brysonk said.
The Ambassadeur 6600 is too light for Fraser bar fishing applications. Go with a 7000C3 with a braid line and leave the 6600 for other (lighter) applications.
Your reel is definitely in need of a good cleaning and oiling. That, and a new line will make it cast like new again.

Check for damage in the worm gear as it is the first thing to go when using in silty waters.

[Blackgivesway2blue]

if you go bar fishing around the lower fraser (new west, fort langley etc) its a perfect reel, its what i use,

another thing , 20lb main is fine for that reel , what i used to always use, but this year i threw on some 15maxima to see if i like it, if i dont ill most likely go back to the 20lb

cheers - Austyn ,