The world of fishing reels is vast and competitive, but few have left a mark quite like the Lew's Speed Spool lineup. For over a decade, angler Shaye Baker has relied on these reels, having owned at least 20 units from the first two generations. "These reels have proven to be the most effective, efficient, and longest-lasting casting reels for the money that I’ve ever found," Baker emphasized.
"These reels have proven to be the most effective, efficient, and longest-lasting casting reels for the money that I’ve ever found,"
In 2024, Lew's unveiled the third generation of the Speed Spool at ICAST, generating excitement among fishing enthusiasts. With three months of rigorous testing under his belt, Baker has found that the latest iteration exceeds expectations. Remarkably, it retains its affordable price tag of $100, keeping it accessible for many anglers.
The Speed Spool LFS Gen3 is equipped with a variety of impressive features designed to optimize performance. It boasts a recessed external Magnetic Control System for seamless braking, a 95mm aluminum handle with Pro Power Knobs, and solid brass Speed Gears, all supported by a network of ten bearings. Additionally, it offers a P2 Super Pinion gear and an audible click drag system—specifications that demand attention.
As Baker unpacked the Gen3, he instantly noted its sturdier build compared to its predecessors, which sparked his interest. "When I first pulled the new Speed Spool from its box, I noticed that this was a beefier reel than its predecessors," Baker remarked. His previous concerns about the first two generations were that they struggled with powerful techniques like flipping and frogging.
"When I first pulled the new Speed Spool from its box, I noticed that this was a beefier reel than its predecessors,"
However, Baker found the new model more aligned with high-performance fishing. "This new Speed Spool though reminded me more in some ways of those two power fishing reels than it did the previous two generations of this reel," he shared, expressing enthusiasm for its potential. Nonetheless, he held reservations about whether this newer model could maintain the finesse of lighter baits.
"This new Speed Spool though reminded me more in some ways of those two power fishing reels than it did the previous two generations of this reel,"
Despite testing a damaged reel—one that Baker noted arrived with a broken drag star peg—he proceeded to evaluate its capabilities.
On the water, Baker had a chance to put the Speed Spool Gen3 through its paces with various lures including a popper and twitch bait. He found it to be user-friendly and efficient. "This is a better power fishing reel than its predecessor, but the Gen 2 version of this reel was and is better with lighter baits," he stated, acknowledging a nuanced performance difference.
"This is a better power fishing reel than its predecessor, but the Gen 2 version of this reel was and is better with lighter baits,"
While the Gen3 excels in power fishing techniques, Baker recommends considering the previous generation for anglers focusing on lighter baits. "There are still some of the previous versions of this reel available and on sale. I’d strongly recommend considering buying one or more them if you’re looking for a good all-around casting reel," he suggested. He anticipates a phased-out approach for Gen 2 models as stock diminishes.
Recalling a favorite fishing memory with the Gen3, Baker reminisced about the thrilling experience of catching fish with a buzzbait. "The Speed Spool had been handling the technique well; I was able to make precise casts with the reel," he explained, underscoring the satisfaction of using this reel effectively.
"The Speed Spool had been handling the technique well; I was able to make precise casts with the reel,"
Impact and Legacy
In the competitive arena of fishing reels, the Lew's Speed Spool LFS Gen3 stands out for its robust design and performance enhancements, particularly for power fishing. As Baker emphasized, it retains a level of affordability that continues to appeal to anglers looking to upgrade their gear without breaking the bank. As the landscape of fishing products evolves, the Speed Spool Gen3 is poised to remain a valid option for many enthusiasts, keeping its legacy alive in the angling community.
