Zillion 1520 HD Alternative

Reels are the hottest topic for TackleTour. Everyone wants to know what the latest and greatest is and how they compare to the old guard. What's the best for light stuff, or what's your suggestion for heavy cover. Do we really need different retrieve ratios? It's all in here.
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reason162
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Zillion 1520 HD Alternative

Post by reason162 » Wed Oct 11, 2023 11:39 am

Really glad I picked up a Catalina TW from tackletrap a few years back - I don't see a substitute for this class reel from Daiwa atm.

Looking for another "HD" type reel to throw deep cranks and small glides - TKs, Spro Chad Shads and 8XD, Duo G20s etc. Will be running braid to leader in saltwater; does not have to be refined.

Is the Tatula 200 the same size/frame/gearing as the Zillion 1520/Catalina TW? Is there any difference between the Tat 200 and 150? Any other suggestions for that size/purpose Daiwas welcome.

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LowRange
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Re: Zillion 1520 HD Alternative

Post by LowRange » Wed Oct 18, 2023 10:13 am

There is also the last gen Zillion HD. Same frame as the Catalina TW but with a deeper fixed inductor spool. For a budget reel the Tatula 150 or 200 are good. They are the same platform with the 150 having a Magforce Z spool and the 200 a deep fixed inductor spool. I would get the last gen Zillion HD is you can swing it but if not then the Tatula 200 is very similar and way cheaper. Another option would be the old Tatula HD 150 reels. They are the same as the current Tatula 200s but with nicer finishes and parts. I use both a last gen Zillion HD, Tatula 150 HD and a Tatula Type R. They are all pretty similar with the Zillion HD feeling the most solid and smooth. I also have the current gen Zillion HD and use it for big baits and punching with braid. No way I would go with big diameter non braid with big baits on that tiny reel. If you are strictly a braid to leader guy then the current gen Zillion HD might be worth a look.

Pictured is the last gen and current gen Zillion HDs. They have the same handle and knobs. That's how tiny the current gen is compared to the last gen.
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