After two years of research and development, Islander Reels finally unveiled the LX4.8 – a blue-water reel developed specifically to handle big game like billfish, tuna and tarpon. The company improved upon existing models by incorporating a dual-pawl system into this reel to eliminate any delay in the drag’s engagement. Designed with the “bigger-is-better” principal, the LX4.8 features an anodized 7075 alloy drag clutch that’s 3 inches in diameter, as well as large bearings capable of withstanding more than 400 pounds of load. These factors, combined with Islander’s own graphite impregnated cork drag surface, offer a mechanism that will wear down even the strongest fish. The oversize detent drag knob is easy to set and adjust, while the large handle makes it as comfortable as possible when reeling in all the line your monster fish pulled out.
The LX4.8 also has interchangeable spools. The standard spool holds a minimum of 450 yards of 30-pound backing, plus a full-length shooting head. The larger-arbor LX4.8M, or “Mega Arbor,” spool holds at least 350 yards of 30-pound backing plus your fly line. The reel can easily be converted from right- to left-hand retrieve without using any tools.
For more information, write Islander Precision Reels at 6771 Kirkpatrick Crescent, Saanichton, B.C., V8M1Z8 Canada; call 250-544-1440; or visit www.islander.com.
