Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel Review

What You Should Know About the Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel

The Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel is a dedicated trolling reel designed for anglers who push their gear in demanding freshwater and saltwater environments. Daiwa has built this unit to handle the challenges of Great Lakes trolling, offering ample line capacity for heavy lines like lead core and copper. My search for a reliable levelwind reel began when my older, worn-out reel started slipping during a critical salmon run, costing me a potential trophy. I needed something robust that wouldn’t fail when it mattered most. My initial impression of this Daiwa reel was its solid, no-nonsense construction; it felt substantial in hand without being overly bulky. While I briefly considered a more expensive, fully sealed model, the Seagate’s advertised corrosion resistance and robust frame seemed like a better fit for my budget and typical usage. My first reaction was a sense of confidence, like finally having a dependable tool for a specific, high-stakes job.

Real-World Testing: Putting Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested this Daiwa reel on a charter boat out of Port Ontario, targeting lake trout and salmon on Lake Ontario. The conditions were typical for late spring: choppy water with intermittent rain showers and significant temperature fluctuations throughout the day. I spooled it with 30lb test monofilament and then later with a copper line setup, as recommended for its capacity. The levelwind system engaged smoothly on both initial casts and retrieves, laying line evenly across the spool. My only minor surprise was the loudness of the spool click; while effective for signaling a strike, it was quite distinct and might be noticeable to those who prefer a more subtle audible alert.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use across multiple trolling trips, this levelwind reel continues to perform admirably. It has seen consistent action, being deployed and retrieved dozens of times per outing, often with heavy lures and significant drag pressure. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear on the composite frame or the handle mechanism. The drag system remains smooth, and I haven’t experienced any grinding or inconsistency even after prolonged battles with hard-pulling fish. Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple rinse with fresh water after each saltwater trip and a light application of reel grease on the handle shaft and levelwind every few months is all it has required. Compared to some entry-level reels I’ve used previously, this Daiwa unit feels significantly more durable and less prone to the common issues of stiffness or corrosion.

Breaking Down the Features of Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel

Specifications

The Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel boasts a 6.1:1 gear ratio, which is ideal for quick line recovery when a fish runs towards the boat or when you need to reposition your lure quickly. It features a 4-bearing system, specifically 1 CRBB (Corrosion Resistant Ball Bearing) + 2 BB + 1 RB (Roller Bearing), designed to provide smooth operation and enhanced longevity, especially in harsh conditions. The reel offers a substantial mono capacity of 25lbs/530yds, 30lbs/450yds, and 40lbs/370yds, making it suitable for deep trolling with heavy lines. Its Max Drag is rated at 13.2 lbs, which is adequate for its intended applications, though serious big-game anglers might seek higher numbers. The reel weighs in at a solid 22 oz, providing a good balance of sturdiness and manageable heft for extended periods on the water.

An oversized line guide aperture is a particularly noteworthy feature for anglers using thicker lines like copper wire or lead core. This design prevents the line from binding or kinking as it passes through the levelwind mechanism, ensuring smoother casting and retrieval. The dual system infinite anti-reverse provides instant hooksets without any backplay, a critical function when you need immediate power. The Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag (UTD) system is another key highlight, known for its smooth engagement and wide range of adjustability, crucial for managing powerful runs.

Performance & Functionality

This levelwind reel excels at its primary function: reliable trolling with heavy lines. The 6.1:1 gear ratio allows for efficient retrieval, bringing lures back into play quickly without excessive cranking. Line lay is consistently even thanks to the well-functioning levelwind mechanism, which is a significant improvement over manual line management. The Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag (UTD) performs exceptionally well, offering a wide range of adjustment from a light tension to its maximum 13.2 lbs, all with a smooth, consistent feel that prevents line breakage during fights.

The reel’s main strength lies in its robust performance under load. It handles the strain of deep-diving lures and copper lines with confidence. I experienced no gear slippage or significant loss of performance, even when engaging the drag heavily. The loud spool click is effective for alerting anglers to strikes, though some might find it a bit intrusive in quieter settings. One minor area for potential improvement would be a slightly higher maximum drag rating for larger freshwater species or more aggressive saltwater targets, but for its intended Great Lakes trolling niche, it’s perfectly adequate.

Design & Ergonomics

The Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel features a rugged, corrosion-proof composite frame, which is a significant advantage for any reel that will encounter saltwater or humid conditions. This material choice contributes to its durable feel and helps keep the weight manageable. The overall aesthetic is functional, with a practical black and yellow color scheme that, while not flashy, is easy to spot and identify on a crowded boat. The oversize Soft Touch handle knob provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or cold hands, reducing fatigue during long days of trolling.

The placement and operation of the drag star and spool tension knob are intuitive and easy to access, even while wearing gloves. The levelwind mechanism glides smoothly under tension, and the line capacity is ample, as evidenced by fitting a substantial amount of 40lb test without issue. While the composite frame is robust, it doesn’t offer the same premium feel as a machined aluminum body, but this is a trade-off for its corrosion resistance and likely a factor in its accessible price point. The reel feels well-balanced on a typical trolling rod, contributing to comfortable handling.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with a corrosion-proof composite frame and featuring CRBB bearings, the Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel is designed for longevity in tough environments. After several months of consistent use in both freshwater and saltwater conditions, it shows no signs of degradation. The materials used seem resistant to salt spray and the general wear and tear associated with frequent handling. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple rinse with fresh water after saltwater exposure and occasional lubrication of external moving parts are sufficient for routine care.

The internal components, protected by the robust frame and the dual system infinite anti-reverse, appear well-sealed against the elements. I haven’t encountered any issues with grit or debris affecting the reel’s performance. While it’s not a fully sealed reel designed for extreme deep-sea environments, it strikes an excellent balance between durability and ease of maintenance for its intended application. Potential failure points might include the levelwind pawl over extended periods of extreme use, but given its construction, this is unlikely to be an immediate concern for most users.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel comes as a standalone unit, meaning there are no specific included accessories beyond the reel itself. However, its design is straightforward, allowing for easy integration into existing rod setups. The reel’s primary customization option lies in the line it can be spooled with, offering flexibility for different trolling techniques and target species. While there aren’t extensive aftermarket upgrades for this particular model, its standard components are generally robust enough for its intended purpose. The compatibility with standard trolling rods is excellent, fitting securely into most reel seats without issue.

Pros and Cons of Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel

Who Should Buy Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel?

This reel is an excellent choice for freshwater anglers specializing in Great Lakes trolling for salmon, lake trout, and other species that require significant line capacity and reliable performance with heavy lines. It’s also a solid option for inshore saltwater anglers who need a durable, corrosion-resistant levelwind reel for specific trolling applications. Those who prioritize functionality and durability over premium aesthetics will find great value here.

Anglers seeking a reel for extreme deep-sea fishing with massive drag requirements or those who prefer ultra-lightweight gear might want to look elsewhere. However, for its intended purpose, this unit is hard to beat in its price bracket. I would recommend pairing it with a stout trolling rod that can handle the reel’s weight and the demands of your target species. Basic maintenance, such as rinsing and occasional lubrication, is all that’s needed to keep this reel performing optimally for years.

Conclusion on Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel

The Daiwa Seagate 60 Levelwind Reel delivers on its promise of a robust and capable trolling reel at an accessible price point. Its corrosion-proof composite frame and well-engineered internal components provide the durability needed for demanding freshwater and saltwater applications, particularly for Great Lakes trolling. The ample line capacity, combined with the smooth and effective Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag (UTD) and a convenient fast 6.1:1 gear ratio, makes it a highly functional tool for anglers targeting sizable fish. While its maximum drag might not satisfy those pursuing the absolute largest game fish, for its intended use, it performs exceptionally well. The oversize line guide and comfortable handle further enhance its practical utility on the water. For its price of $149.99, the value proposition is strong, offering a reliable workhorse that should serve many seasons. I would confidently recommend this reel to any angler looking for a dependable, no-frills levelwind reel that can handle the rigors of serious trolling.