Introduction: We kicked off 2009 with a review on one of our favorite reels to date, the Daiwa Pluton, a very robust, heavy duty reel in a relatively compact package. Intended primarily for inshore use, the original Pluton is also suitable for several freshwater applications which in our case meant tossing swimbaits. It continues to be one of our favorites for tossing big baits. The only downside to this reel is its weight, but considering the purpose for which it is designed together with its casting ability and smooth gears, we overlook this aspect. Still, there are times we wished this reel was available in a smaller package. Well, one look overseas to the Pluton's JDM counterpart, the Ryoga, and you can find just that. Here's our look at the Ryoga 1016HL.
