Info has started to leak out in advance of the ICAST industry tradeshow, which begins a few weeks from now in Orlando, Fla. One of the more notable items is the new Tour KVD reel from Quantum.
The reel, part of Quantum's PT line, is about the same size as the company's 100-size baitcasters, but holds a 200-size spool, which increases line capacity. It's therefore classified as a new "150-size" and holds 145 yards of 12-pound line. Kevin VanDam feels that the larger spool improves casting performance and produces a higher inches-per-turn retrieve. In fact, along with its 7.3:1 high-speed gear ratio, the reel picks up 34 inches per turn.
Alongside the expected high-end components, the reel also features a new cast control called ACS 3 that automatically self-adjusts according to the needs of the cast up to the maximum level the angler selects. For example, if the angler chooses the "midpoint" setting, but the cast doesn't require that much brake actuation, no brakes will be applied. However, if the cast quickly ramps the spool speed up to require the selected braking level, then the brakes are applied for that setting. Quantum says the system makes it easier to switch casting styles on-the-fly – from a long-distance cast to a short pitch, for example, without having to adjust the setting. Cast control settings are infinite among the 168-degree rotation of the Tour KVD's external dial.
Suggested retail price: $299.95.
