Left-handed Reels

[ChrisW21]

Been fishing all my life. Started in fresh water and learned with spinning outfits where I would cast and hold the rod with my right hand and reel with the left. Now that I fish offshore, all the larger reels that I have used the reel handle is on the right. This just doesn't feel natural for me, as I would rather hold the rod and fight the fish with my stronger (right) hand and reel with the left. Plus the action of reeling has been ingrained in me to use my left hand, so sometimes I just can't get the smooth, rotational movement when hauling up a hog. I think I have seen a couple of reels set up the way I prefer, but not too many. Can anyone recommend a manufacturer who makes some heavier reels (20 - 50lb) with the handle on the left side?

[offshore3144]

Alutecnos makes left handed reels....Mark

[kevdog540]

Avet, you can only get the left hand models in silver.

http://www.avetreels.com/reels/avet_pro_exw_2spd.html

[demjjm]

I have a couple of Okuma reels in left hand models.

[ChrisW21]

Thanks guys! Do you know if they cost the same as the standard right hand? Are most parts that I would need for normal maintenance interchangable between the two (drag washers, etc)?

[Dr. Rob]

All Everol reels are available in left-hand drive.

All parts interchangeable.

.

[lemaymiami]

A lot of manufacturers make left handed versions of their more popular reel sizes. The parts are interchangable except for side plates and other items that are specific to just the left handed version. The one thing to remember is that the value of a left handed reel isn't as great as the standard right hand version... once they're on the used market. A Calcutta 201, fetches less than the standard model 200, right handed model.