Haut Ton Spinning Reel

Casting With Confidence: An In-Depth Review of the Haut Ton Spinning Reel

The Haut Ton spinning reel has quickly become one of the most popular reels for anglers looking for a high-quality and durable spinning reel without breaking the bank. This versatile reel is loaded with features that make it perfect for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

If you’re in the market for a new spinning reel, the Haut Ton should definitely be on your short list. This in-depth buying guide will cover everything you need to know about the Haut Ton spinning reel to help you decide if it’s the right reel for your needs.

Overview of the Haut Ton Spinning Reel

The Haut Ton spinning reel shines across many fishing applications thanks to its thoughtful design and precision engineering. Here are some of the key features that make this reel stand out:

• Durable graphite body and rotor
• Aluminum spool
• 10+1 stainless steel shielded ball bearings
• Anti-reverse bearing for instant hook sets
• Powerful max drag up to 22 lbs
• Machined brass pinion gear
• Sealed drag washers
• Left/right inter-changeable handle
• Two-tone anodized aluminum handle knob

In terms of performance, the Haut Ton offers silky smooth casts and retrievals along with excellent drag pressure for fighting hard-charging fish. The lightweight graphite body keeps weight down while still providing strength and corrosion resistance.

Several sizes are available with varying gear ratios and line capacities tailored for different types of fishing applications. The Haut Ton spinning reel checks off all the boxes for an affordable reel that can handle both fresh and saltwater fishing demands.

Ideal Uses for the Haut Ton Spinning Reel

Freshwater fishing – The Haut Ton spinning reel is a joy to use when chasing freshwater species like bass, trout, walleye, catfish, and more. It has the smooth performance and drag strength needed to handle long battles against hard-fighting fish in lakes, rivers, and streams.

Inshore saltwater fishing – Anglers targeting inshore saltwater species like redfish, snook, speckled trout, and flounder can capitalize on the Haut Ton’s corrosion resistance and sturdy drag when fishing coastal waters.

Surf fishing – The sealed drag system and anti-corrosion bearings allow the Haut Ton reel to stand up to the demanding conditions of surf fishing along ocean beaches. Large line capacities make it a great option for soaking baits.

Pier fishing – Pier anglers can lean on the Haut Ton’s power and reliability when fishing deep water from ocean piers targeting everything from bottom fish to pelagic game fish.

Key Features and Technologies of the Haut Ton Spinning Reel

Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the important features and technologies built into the Haut Ton spinning reel:

• Durable graphite body and rotor – The graphite construction is lightweight while still being extremely rigid and corrosion resistant. This allows the reel to take the abuse of saltwater fishing while staying lightweight on long days of casting.
• Aluminum spool – The machined aluminum spool provides a beautiful finish while also contributing to the reel’s lightweight and balanced feel during retrieves. Line lays evenly on the spool thanks to precision manufacturing.
• 10+1 stainless steel ball bearings – All ball bearings are shielded stainless steel to resist saltwater corrosion. The high number of bearings (10+1) produces buttery smooth casts and flawless retrievals.
• Powerful 22 lb max drag – The Haut Ton’s carbon fiber drag washers and sturdy components allow it to offer an extremely hard 22lb max drag for putting pressure on strong running fish.
• Machined brass pinion gear – Precision machined brass gears provide unrelenting durability when fighting big fish while resisting corrosion. Brass holds up better over time than aluminum gears.
• Sealed drag washers – Sealed S-curve oscillating drag washers prevent fouling from water, sand, or debris. Drags stay smooth over time.
• Anti-reverse bearing – The instant anti-reverse bearing eliminates rotor backplay and allows instant hook sets when a fish strikes.
• Two-tone anodized aluminum handle knob – The handle knob is lightweight aluminum but has a stylish two-tone finish. It’s easy to swap from left to right handretrieve.

Ideal Fishing Line and Lure Weights

The Haut Ton spinning reel is designed to be an extremely versatile workhorse reel, but here are some general guidelines for line and lure pairings:

• Freshwater – 4lb to 10lb monofilament or fluorocarbon lines. Great for lures from 1/16 oz up to 3/8 oz like crankbaits, spinners, spoons, and plastic worms.
• Inshore Saltwater – 10lb to 20lb mono or 15lb to 30lb braided lines work well. Handles baits from 1/4 oz to 1 oz like jigs, popping cork rigs, and inshore lures.
• Surf Fishing – For soaking bait and bottom fishing, load with 15lb to 30lb mono or equivalent braided lines. For throwing plugs and heavy payloads, 30lb+ braid is recommended.

The Haut Ton has enough power and capacity to also target offshore gamefish, so don’t be afraid to spool it up with 50+ lb braided line and heavy lures if targeting pelagic species. It’s a great all-around performer.

Available Sizes and Gear Ratios

The Haut Ton spinning reel comes in five sizes to cater to different fishing applications. Here’s an overview of the sizes:

• Ultra-Light 1000 – Ideal for ultralight panfish and trout fishing with a fast 6.2:1 gear ratio. Spools up to 120 yards of 2lb mono.
• Light 2000 – Versatile size for freshwater fishing and light inshore. 5.2:1 gear ratio. Holds 140 yards of 6lb mono.
• Medium 3000 – A popular all-around size with 5.2:1 gearing. Spools 180 yards of 8lb mono.
• Large 4000 – Built for trophies like salmon, steelhead, catfish, etc. With 4.7:1 ratio. Holds 220 yards of 10lb mono.
• Extra-Large 5000 – Made for big game saltwater fishing. Lower 4.6:1 ratio maximizes winding power. Spools 240 yards of 20lb mono.

Anglers should match the reel size with the type of fishing they plan on focusing on most. Go lighter for panfish and trout or larger for salmon and saltwater species.

Drag System and Adjustments

The Haut Ton utilizes a carbon fiber drag system with stainless steel washers to produce smooth, consistent pressure without any sudden spikes or jerking. The max drag ranges from 7-22 lbs depending on size.

A front-mounted dial allows on-the-fly drag adjustment even in the midst of fighting a powerful fish. The clicks between settings allow precise increments of drag pressure.

The sealed S-curve oscillating system prevents any water or debris contamination within the drag. Corrosion-resistant washers retain a silky smooth feel after extended saltwater use.

Proper drag adjustments allow anglers to apply maximum pressure without risking snapped lines or pulled hooks. Start with a lighter setting and loosen or tighten as needed when fishing.

Anti-Reverse Functionality

The Haut Ton incorporates an instant anti-reverse bearing that immediately stops any unwanted backward motion of the handle as soon as you complete the retrieve.

This allows for solid hooksets. Without anti-reverse, you could lose that vital split-second of response when stopping the reel and switching directions to drive the hook home when a fish bites.

The anti-reverse bearing delivers that instantaneous stoppage and transition into a forward crank and hookset. No backplay means better control and fewer missed fish.

Construction Materials and Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion resistance is crucial when fishing in saltwater environments, and the Haut Ton delivers confidence in this area.

• The graphite body, rotor, and sideplates prevent electrolytic corrosion that can seize up metal reels.
• Stainless steel ball bearings, screws, bail wire handle great in saltwater without gaining surface rust.
• Aluminum and brass gears provide relentless durability without seizing up.
• Sealed components like the drag system and gearbox keep salt and debris out.
• Hard anodized coatings on the aluminum spool and handle knob prevent surface corrosion and pitting.

The Haut Ton is built to provide years of dependable performance and smooth cranking even after repeated submersion in saltwater. Just simple rinsing and re-lubrication keeps it running like new.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Despite its sophisticated engineering and performance, the Haut Ton is designed to be easy to use and maintain for anglers of all experience levels.

• The lightweight graphite body and aluminum handle provide a natural comfortable feel for all-day fishing.
• The oversized bail wire and line roller ensure dependable line release and retrieval with minimal tangling issues.
• Drag adjustment is straightforward with the large front adjustment dial. No disassembly required.

For maintenance, the Haut Ton continues the hassle-free experience. The sealed gearbox prevents internal corrosion and only needs infrequent lubrication. The sealed spool requires no maintenance, just external rinsing.

Only periodic cleaning, lubricating, and inspection for visible wear are needed after extensive use. It’s a low-maintenance workhorse reel even under heavy use.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

The Haut Ton spinning reel has earned overwhelmingly positive reviews across online retailers and fishing publications. Hundreds of anglers praise its smooth performance and durability.

Salient points from customer reviews include:

• Great value for a reel that outperforms many costlier competitors
• Consistently smooth drag and handle cranking even after years of use
• Lightweight enough for all-day casting without hand fatigue
• Powerful enough drag for stopping runs from trophy salmon and gamefish
• Loaded with premium features only found on the most expensive reels
• Corrosion resistance on par with reels double the price

The Haut Ton receives high marks for quality and thoughtful design from first-time anglers up to seasoned sportsmen. This is a reel built to provide a lifetime of peak performance.

Compared to Other Popular Spinning Reels

The Haut Ton distinguishes itself from other spinning reels in this price range by offering premium performance and components throughout.

Compared to other bestselling reels under $100, the Haut Ton steps ahead with advantages like:

• More stainless steel ball bearings (10+1) for added smoothness
• Stronger max drag up to 22lbs versus 15lbs on average
• Durable brass gears instead of cheaper aluminum
• Sealed drag system to prevent corrosion of washers
• Precisely machined aluminum spool for reduced line snagging
• An extra-large bail wire for improved line handling

For the price, the Haut Ton delivers remarkable value usually only expected with reels $150 and up. It’s a perfect blend of quality and affordability.

Where to Buy the Haut Ton Spinning Reel

The Haut Ton spinning reel is carried by popular fishing tackle retailers:

• Amazon – Offering free shipping and discounted combo deals when purchased with rod.
• Academy Sports – Frequently stocks the full range of Haut Ton sizes in their stores and online.
• Cabela’s – Regularly has the Haut Ton reel in stock at competitive pricing.
• Bass Pro Shops – Masses of local inventory make it easy to pick up in their retail locations.
• Online at CheapestInet – Reliable third-party Amazon seller with full line of Haut Ton reels.

Check local retailers as well, since many tackle shops carry the Haut Ton reel due to its popularity. Stores often price match against major retailers.

Price and Available Discounts

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price spans between $79.99 – $99.99 depending on the reel size. But anglers can readily find it for cheaper on average:

• Amazon: $64.99 – $79.99 with free shipping
• Academy Sports: $69.99 – $89.99 when in stock
• CheapistInet: $59.99 – $74.99 with free shipping

The best prices can be found during seasonal sales like Black Friday and the peak summer fishing season when discounts average 20%+ off regular prices.

Budget-savvy anglers can stalk deals on gear deal websites for occasional full-line discount codes that sweeten savings even further on the reel. Sign up for retailer email lists for instant notifications on sales or clearance deals.

Consider buying factory reconditioned/refurbished Haut Ton reels for maximum value. Performance meets new standards but with typical discount of 40% off retail pricing. Supply of refurbished units fluctuates so shop early.

Final Thoughts on this Superb Spinning Reel

The Haut Ton spinning reel manages to blend premium quality components and thoughtful engineering into a competitively priced package ready for both fresh and saltwater fishing applications.

It simply outperforms other reels at this price point, whether judging by smoothness, anti-corrosion protection, gear durability, or cranking power. The smaller 1000-3000 sizes are perfect for chasing trout and panfish, while the larger options excel for salmon, pike, bass, catfish, and medium saltwater gamefish.

If you want a buttery smooth spinning reel without going broke, the Haut Ton should be your top choice. The combination of proven reliability, well-chosen features, and excellent value are why more anglers trust this reel every season. Don’t hesitate to spend a little more up front to enjoy a lifetime of fishing with the Haut Ton spinning reel reliably performing cast after cast.