Anglers should run not walk to their local sporting good store to check out the new Ambassadeur reels from Abu Garcia. They just aren’t the same. They not only have a new look outside, but the guts have been completely redone. The gear tolerances are much closer. There is a new six-pin centrifugal casting brake. A larger star drag lever, a carbon matrix drag system and redesigned level wind, hand and spool. All of these changes have been made to the C-3 and C-4 line of reels.

I got the chance to try out one of the newest additions to the Ambassadeur line. Shown above is the 6500LC, or line counter reel. This is brand new and just becoming available. I fished it this summer-run salmon season, and the difference between the performance of this reel to that of my old 6500C-3s is dramatic. I have been fishing with Ambassadeur reels for over 30 years and have found them dependable and durable. This new reel, and with the others that have been redesigned, is significantly smoother—all around. The drag is very different than my other reels. I was concerned that the line counter model would be “clunky”. When I got a chance to put it on a rod and use it, I found it very user friendly and well balanced. The line counter resets at the touch of a button, and if this is a feature that you could use in your fishing experience, this reel will not disappoint you. It has the line capacity to handle big salmon in a big river. The new finish on this reel and the way they have incorporated the line counter feature on the reel has to be seen to be appreciated. I used to “count passes” or “pulls” set my lines. Now I know exactly how much line I have out. I was surprised to learn how far behind the boat I was setting baits and stopping my jet divers. I fish more consistently with this feature.

Don’t misunderstand. I am not junking my old Ambassodeurs. I just got a couple! They are still great reels. But I have to admit, I can’t wait for them wear out. I just noticed that the local sporting goods store here in town has them in stock. I will be getting one of the new ones before their first order is sold out!