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If you’re looking for a spinning reel that’s light, smooth, and doesn’t break the bank, the Pflueger Presidential 20 is a top contender. I’ve used this reel consistently for over a year, and it’s become my go-to setup for crappie and bluegill—especially when I’m fishing my backyard pond. It’s smooth, casts great, and just feels more expensive than it is.
🛍️ Quick Take:
✔️ 9+1 bearings = SMOOTH!
✔️ Super lightweight (~6 oz), but quality materials
✔️ Excellent for crappie, bluegill, and other panfish
✔️ Perfectly pairs with ultralight rods
⚙️ Specs at a Glance (PRES20)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reel Size | 20 |
| Bearings | 10 (9+1 stainless steel) |
| Gear Ratio | 5.2:1 |
| Max Drag | ~6 lbs |
| Weight | ~6.2 oz |
| Line Capacity | 100 yds / 4 lb mono |
| Handle | Aluminum, soft-touch knob |
| MSRP | ~$65–$85 |
🧪 Performance Review (Tested on the Water)
I paired my PRES20 with a Bass Pro Shops Panfish Elite rod and spooled it with 4 lb copolymer line. From the first cast, I knew this reel was something special. It’s ridiculously smooth, the drag has never slipped, and it casts tiny lures with ease.
Even after a year of steady use, the reel is still performing flawlessly. The retrieve feels like a higher-end reel, and it balances perfectly with any ultralight or light power rod.
Caught my first slab on this combo, and it was a thrill. If you fish even just a few times a year, a dedicated panfish setup is a must—and this reel delivers serious value.
🔧 Build Quality & Design: Why It Feels Top Shelf
My favorite part about the Pflueger Presidential is that it’s primarily made of stainless steel and aluminum parts. This gives the reel a solid, premium feel that stands out—especially in a price range filled with plastic-bodied reels. After a year of regular use, mine is still smooth, reliable, and shows no signs of wear.
The color scheme also deserves a mention: a sleek combo of matte gray, deep blue, and subtle gold accents. It pairs well with so many rods visually, and just looks sharp. All around, this reel punches well above its price point.
🛠️ What I Don’t Love
The one thing I’d change? The handle threading system. Instead of the crank threading through the reel and locking into a cap (like most of my other reels), this one threads in by rotating the handle while holding the bail. It works, but if you accidentally reverse crank, it can loosen the handle. It’s a small quirk—but worth mentioning.
✅ Final Verdict: Would I Buy It Again?
Absolutely. I already did—I own two Pflueger Presidential reels now. While I was at Cabela’s recently, I overheard a clerk recommending it to another angler. I smiled and thought, “He’s right—this is the best spinning reel under $100.”
🎣 If you fish crappie, bluegill, or trout, and want smooth performance at a fair price, the Presidential 20 is a can’t-miss pick.
💬 Related Gear & Guides
🙋♂️ What’s Your Favorite Crappie Reel?
Have you tried the Pflueger Presidential 20—or do you have another favorite panfish setup? Drop a comment below—I’d love to compare notes.
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