When you hear the news that a group of diehard anglers are about to build a new state-of-the-art reel that'll be American made with American parts – and that it promises to work exactly as designed with longstanding durability – you might raise one eyebrow and think to yourself, can it be done?


The answer's yes.


Ardent's David Gray had a dream to it, and his dream's become a reality. But it gets better.


Ardent Outdoors now manufactures three baitcasting models, ranging from the new XS1000 down to the C400. The company product line combines magnesium cases, great new drag systems, and gearing that's second to none.

Prices for these reels range from $169.99 for the C400 to $249.99 for the XS1000. Ardent also has an S400 spinning reel with all the bells and whistles, and it's priced at $149.99.

BassFan Army members tested Ardent products before (click here for a past member review of the XS). I fished the Ardent XS quite a bit and found that it delivers outstanding castability, exceptional dependability and endurance, and the power to pull big fish out of the heaviest cover.

Notable is that Ardent currently has a closeout on the XS reel and it can be gotten for a bargain price of $199.99. That's a top-notch reel at a great price. You can take advantage of that deal by clicking here.

New Flagship

The XS is still an exceptional reel, but this year at ICAST we got a first-hand look at the new flagship XS1000 and we were impressed – magnesium case, 10 ball bearings, a new state-of-the-art drag system called Strike Saver, and a 6.3:1 gear ratio.

More recently, we took it for a spin. This reel is super-light, has a great handle with plenty of power, and the cosmetics are killer.

We especially liked the six-pin braking system and low-profile, ergonomic profile. The black finish really sets this reel off.

The anti-backlash functionality of this reel has become an Ardent trademark and you can cast it a mile.

Combined with a 3-year warranty and excellent customer service, it all makes this reel a must-buy for the diehard angler.

Notable

> Ardent's based in Macon, MO and is a model company for enlisting community involvement and support.

> Ardent currently sponsors Alton Jones, Pete Ponds, and Bill McDonald.

> Again, the fact that it's made in the USA with American parts makes it that much cooler.

> For more about Ardent and its products, visit ArdentOutdoors.com.