First Impressions of Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel immediately struck me as a budget-friendly option trying to punch above its weight. Marketed by Favorite Fishing as offering quality at a great price, the claim of a lightweight carbon composite body and stainless-steel ball bearings piqued my interest, especially considering the price tag. Is this a hidden gem for the casual angler, or does the low cost reveal compromises in performance and durability?
I was in the market for a lightweight spinning reel for finesse fishing on smaller bodies of water. My current reel, while reliable, felt a bit too heavy for extended use with lighter tackle, leading to fatigue. The Absolute 2000’s weight and stated freshwater suitability seemed like a potential solution.
Upon unboxing, the reel felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The red color is bold, perhaps a bit too flashy for some, but the carbon composite body felt relatively sturdy. While the skeletal rotor design looks modern, I immediately questioned its long-term durability.
Compared to my Shimano Sienna and Daiwa Regal, both entry-level reels in a similar price bracket, the Absolute 2000 initially felt lighter than the Sienna but not as refined as the Regal. I chose the Absolute 2000 to test if a lesser-known brand could truly deliver comparable performance and value. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping the reel’s performance would validate its cost-effective design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel on a local freshwater lake known for its panfish and small bass. I paired it with a light action rod and 6lb monofilament line, targeting bluegill and crappie. The goal was to assess its casting distance, retrieve smoothness, and drag performance under light to moderate stress.
The reel performed surprisingly well in calm conditions. Casting was smooth and relatively effortless, achieving decent distances with light lures. However, the retrieve felt slightly rougher than my more expensive reels, and the drag adjustment knob felt a bit imprecise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Absolute 2000 showed some signs of wear and tear. The paint on the rotor began to chip, and the retrieve became noticeably less smooth. Despite regular cleaning and lubrication, the reel seemed to be losing its initial performance.
The drag system, while adequate for smaller fish, felt unreliable when tested with larger bass. The advertised 14 lbs of max drag seemed optimistic; the drag felt sticky and inconsistent under pressure. Compared to my previous experiences with Daiwa and Shimano reels, the Absolute 2000 proved to be less durable and reliable over the long term.
Breaking Down the Features of Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel
Specifications
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel boasts several key specifications worth noting. It features a lightweight carbon composite body, designed for freshwater use, and a 5.2:1 gear ratio. It also includes 4 stainless steel ball bearings + 1 roller bearing, a Max Drag of 14 lbs, and a mono capacity of 10lbs/175yds.
These specifications impact performance in different ways. The carbon composite body keeps the reel lightweight, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. The gear ratio provides a balanced retrieve speed suitable for various techniques.
Performance & Functionality
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel performs adequately for light freshwater fishing. Its casting distance is reasonable, and the retrieve is acceptable for the price. However, its drag system lacks the smoothness and precision of higher-end reels.
One significant weakness is the inconsistent drag performance. While it handles smaller fish effectively, it struggles with larger, more powerful species. Overall, the Absolute 2000 meets basic expectations for an entry-level reel, but falls short of delivering exceptional performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Absolute 2000 features a skeletal rotor design and a bold red color scheme. The reel feels relatively balanced on a light action rod, and the handle provides a comfortable grip. However, the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap compared to more expensive reels.
The reel is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. However, the drag adjustment knob could be more precise, and the overall finish quality could be improved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel‘s long-term durability is questionable. After several weeks of use, the paint began to chip, and the retrieve became less smooth. The reel requires regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain its performance.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward, but the quality of the internal components may limit its lifespan. I do not believe this reel will hold up to repeated abuse and extreme conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to its entry-level design. While it’s compatible with most standard fishing lines, there are no specific upgrades or modifications available.
It might be compatible with universal reel handles, but I wouldn’t suggest spending more money on upgrades for this reel. Instead, save that money and buy a better reel to begin with.
Pros and Cons of Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Affordable price point.
- Decent casting distance for its size.
- Acceptable for light freshwater fishing.
- Bold and eye-catching red color.
Cons
- Inconsistent drag performance.
- Questionable long-term durability.
- Cheap build quality.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel?
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel is perfect for beginner anglers or those on a very tight budget. It is suitable for casual fishing in freshwater environments targeting panfish and small bass. This reel is an okay choice for those who need a backup reel for guests or occasional use.
Experienced anglers seeking reliable performance and durability should skip this product. Those targeting larger fish or fishing in harsh conditions should also consider investing in a higher-quality reel. Must-have modifications are not recommended, as the cost of upgrades would likely exceed the value of the reel.
Conclusion on Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel
The Favorite Fishing Absolute 2000 Spinning Reel offers an entry-level option for anglers seeking an affordable and lightweight reel. While it performs adequately for light freshwater fishing, its inconsistent drag, questionable durability, and cheap build quality limit its appeal. The reel doesn’t fully justify its low price tag if reliability and longevity are primary concerns.
I would only recommend this reel to beginners or those on an extremely limited budget. Save your money and invest in a better-quality reel for a more reliable and enjoyable fishing experience.