Saltwater Fishing Tackle & Gear

X-Braid X8 Braided Line Made using exclusive and innovative braiding technology called WX braiding, achieves a more consistent weave pattern through proprietary balanced weaving technology that prevents line-twist during construction. This advanced braiding technique ensures that the line remains durable and dependable, even under the most demanding fishing conditions.

Experience the reliability and performance of X-Braid X8 Braided Line - Green White. With 8 tightly woven strands and a precision weave that enhances strength and handling, XBRAID X8 provides a seamless and superior fishing experience. The small diameter and smooth surface allow for long casting distances with minimal resistance, while the added Fluorine coating reduces friction and offers heat resistance. Trust in the exceptional design and construction of XBRAID X8 to elevate your fishing game, whether targeting freshwater species or challenging saltwater gamefish.

165 yards

The Major Craft Jigpara Vertical Tungsten Jigs is expertly designed to excel in deep waters and strong currents. Its heavy tungsten material reduces drag and creates a compact profile, enabling a precise and effective vertical presentation for challenging fishing conditions.

With its small size, this jig is ideal for luring fish fixated on smaller bait and can be your secret weapon when larger jigs fail. Perfect for handling strong currents or targeting depths requiring precision, the Major Craft Jigpara Tungsten Jig is a must-have for enhanced jigging success.

Does NOT come with hooks.

Harnessing the cutting-edge GyraTech® process, our Ahi GT4 Performance Fluorocarbon Line offers a unique molecular structure that optimizes and balances the four crucial components sought after by every avid angler.

Developed by fellow anglers and tested to perfection at the highest levels of fishing, this line delivers peak performance based on real-world results, not just lab tests. From leisurely island trips to intense pond fishing, the results speak for themselves - the NEW Ahi GT4 is simply unmatched.

Trusted by professional captains and expert guides, our line has been proven time and time again by various anglers who have put it to the test on the water. Count on our line to elevate your fishing experience and exceed all expectations for you and your customers.

Features:

Wear Resistant

• Ahi's unique formula of resins and coatings creates a supple yet exceptionally strong exterior, providing an superior abrasion resistant line.

Ultra Sensitive

The Keitech Swing Impact 2.8" has earned a reputation as a "Secret Bait" among local experts at Japan's clear, pressured lakes like Lake Nojiri and Lake Hibari. The tapered body with a thin tail and paddle produces natural, subtle vibrations that deliver the lifelike action predators can't ignore — even in heavily pressured water.

An accurate rigging slot ensures proper hook placement to optimize natural movement. Keitech's squid flavor infusion and proprietary plastic compound make the bait more enticing and encourage fish to hold on longer.

Key Features

• Tapered body with thin paddle tail — natural, subtle vibration for lifelike action
• Accurate rigging slot — ensures proper hook placement for optimal action
• Squid flavor infused — proprietary plastic compound encourages longer holds
• Ideal for pressured water — proven on clear, finesse-style fisheries
• 8 per pack
• 7 colors available — Clear Chartreuse Glow, Green Pumpkin PP, Watermelon Pearl, Smoke Blue Pearl, Clear Silver Glow, Smoke FLK, Natural Blue Pearl

Ultra-Lightweight Finesse Performance

The Shimano Vanford FA Spinning Reel delivers ultra-lightweight finesse performance with Shimano's most advanced technologies for serious freshwater and light saltwater anglers. Built with the revolutionary MagnumLite Rotor, HAGANE Gear, and Long Stroke Spool, this reel provides exceptional sensitivity, effortless casting, and smooth power for targeting bass, trout, walleye, and inshore species. The Vanford FA represents the pinnacle of lightweight spinning reel design for anglers who demand maximum performance.

Revolutionary Lightweight Design

• MagnumLite Rotor: Up to 48% lighter than standard rotors for ultra-light rotation, reduced startup inertia, and enhanced sensitivity
• CI4+ Body: Carbon-reinforced composite construction provides exceptional rigidity while reducing overall weight
• Long Stroke Spool: Longer spool stroke improves casting distance and reduces line friction for effortless long casts
• Lightweight Construction: Optimized weight distribution reduces fatigue during all-day fishing sessions

Advanced Gear and Drive System

• HAGANE Gear: Cold-forged aluminum pinion gear provides unmatched strength and durability for long-lasting smoothness
• X-Ship Technology: Dual-bearing support for the pinion gear maintains precise alignment under loads, reducing friction
• MicroModule Gear II: Smaller, precision-cut gear teeth increase contact points for ultra-smooth retrieves
• Silent Drive: Eliminates unnecessary noise and vibration throughout the reel for smooth, quiet operation
• Infinity Drive: Reduces friction between spool shaft and pinion gear for ultra-light rotation

Premium Casting and Control

• AR-C Spool: Advanced spool design improves casting distance and reduces line twist for better presentations
• G Free Body: Reel's center of gravity is closer to the rod for reduced fatigue and improved balance
• One-Piece Bail: Rigid one-piece bail wire provides smooth, reliable line pickup
• Propulsion Line Management: Reduces friction and wind knots for trouble-free casting
• S A-RB Bearings: Shielded anti-rust bearings provide smooth rotation and corrosion resistance

Versatile Fishing Applications

The Vanford FA excels across a wide range of finesse fishing applications. Work soft plastics for bass with enhanced sensitivity, cast light lures for trout with effortless distance, finesse fish for walleye with precision, target panfish with ultra-light presentations, or pursue inshore species with confidence. The ultra-lightweight design and advanced technologies provide all-day comfort and maximum performance for serious anglers.

Key Technologies

Shimano Quality and Innovation

Shimano has been the global leader in fishing tackle innovation for decades, and the Vanford FA continues this proud tradition with cutting-edge lightweight technologies. Every component is engineered to exacting standards and tested under real-world conditions to ensure reliable performance season after season. From weekend anglers to tournament professionals, the Vanford FA delivers the precision and sensitivity that serious finesse anglers demand.

Experience the ultra-lightweight performance that finesse specialists trust. The Shimano Vanford FA isn't just a reel—it's a precision tool built for maximum sensitivity and effortless performance.

Fish with finesse using Shimano Vanford FA—where ultra-lightweight design meets advanced technology.

A clip turns every lure change into ten seconds instead of two minutes. No retying, no burning three inches of leader every time you want to try something different, no fumbling a knot in the dark with cold hands while the bite happens without you.

Short version: single-strand black steel lure clips, 12 per pack, in four test ratings from 25 lb to 125 lb. Same price at every size.

Which Test Rating

The rule is simple: the clip should be rated above your leader, not equal to it. Terminal hardware should never be the weakest link in the system — when something gives, you want it to be the line, not the connection, so you lose a lure instead of a lure and a fish.

All four are the same price, so there's no reason to under-buy. If you're between two, take the heavier one — the size difference is small and the failure consequence isn't.

On an Umbrella Rig

The Kicker PK-Rig ships with clips already on the arms. These are your replacements — and on a rig you're going to fish for a season, you want spares in the box before you need them.

Go 75 or 125 lb for rig work. A five-arm rig carries five weighted baits through structure, and each clip is holding a bait against the load of the whole retrieve. This is the one application where the heaviest clip is the obvious choice.

The clips are also the reason an umbrella rig lasts more than one season. Every time you re-thread or re-tie an arm you work the wire, and worked wire fails. Clips mean you set the arms once and change baits without ever touching them.

Where Else They Earn Their Keep

• Surf fishing — changing between hard baits, spoons, and swimbaits as conditions shift, without retying in wet sand and wind.
• Working a spot — cycling through three or four presentations to find what they want, then staying on it.
• Iron — swapping surface and yo-yo jigs when the school moves up or down.
• Anywhere you're burning leader. Twenty lure changes on fluorocarbon costs you real money in line. Clips pay for themselves in a season.

Honest Trade-offs

A clip is one more connection between you and the fish, and there are days it isn't the right call:

• Clear water, wary fish. Black steel is low-visibility, but a direct knot is still less hardware in the strike zone.
• Baits with delicate action. Some small hard baits swim differently on a clip than on a loop knot. Worth testing before you commit a trip to it.
• Anything you'll fish all day without changing. If the lure isn't coming off, the clip isn't buying you anything.

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Check that the clip is fully closed before every cast. A clip that looks shut and isn't will hand your lure to the ocean on the hookset.
• Retire a clip that's been opened and closed a lot. Wire fatigues. At fifty cents each there's no reason to fish a tired one.
• Keep two ratings in the box. A 50 and a 125 covers almost everything most SoCal anglers fish in a season.
• Rinse them with the rest of your terminal. Electroplated black steel handles salt well, but nothing survives being left wet in a closed box.

Common Mistakes

• Matching the clip rating to the leader instead of exceeding it. The clip should be the strong part of the system.
• Using a light clip on an umbrella rig. Five weighted baits is a load no 25 lb clip should be holding.
• Assuming it's closed. The single most common way anglers lose a lure on a clip.
• Leaving a bent or sprung clip in rotation. Once it doesn't seat cleanly, it's done.

Specifications

Kicker does not publish clip length or wire diameter per rating. Call the shop and we'll measure the size you're considering.

What's Included

Twelve clips per pack, in the test rating selected. Lures, jig heads, and rigs are sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many clips are in a pack?
Twelve.

What test rating should I buy?
Pick one rated above your leader so the clip isn't the weak link. 50 lb for harbor and bay, 75 lb for calico and general saltwater, 125 lb for yellowtail and umbrella rigs, 25 lb for light freshwater and small baits.

Which size for an umbrella rig?
75 or 125 lb. A five-arm rig carries five weighted baits and each clip holds one against the load of the whole retrieve.

Do the different ratings cost different amounts?
No. All four are the same price, so buy the rating you need rather than the one you think is cheaper.

Does the PK-Rig already come with clips?
Yes — the rig ships with a clip on each arm. These are replacements and spares.

Will a clip change how my lure swims?
On most swimbaits and jigs, no. On some small hard baits with delicate action, a clip swims differently than a loop knot — worth testing before you rely on it.

Are they visible to fish?
Black steel is about as low-visibility as terminal hardware gets. In very clear water with wary fish, a direct knot is still less hardware in the strike zone.

How long does a clip last?
Until it stops seating cleanly. Wire fatigues with repeated opening and closing — at fifty cents each, retire them early.

Gear That Goes With It

• Kicker PK-Rig Umbrella Rig — five-arm rig these clips replace.
• Warbaits Neck Breaker Swing Head — the standard head for rig arms.
• Kicker Pickle Kick PK-5 — the everyday 5" swimbait.
• Kicker Booty Spin — blade-tail version of the same body.

Buy It From People Who Fish It

We sell Southern California saltwater tackle from our shop on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, and we fish this hardware on the same water you do. Not sure which rating your setup wants? Call us or come in — it's a five-dollar decision that costs a lot more when it's wrong.

Get all the sizes so you're ready for any lure — 12 pieces each of 50lb, 75lb, and 125lb black steel Quick Clips in a waterproof snap-close case.

Kicker Quick Clips allow for fast and easy lure changes without the need to retie. Made from a single strand of electroplated black steel wire, they're stronger than a narwhal's tusk and will save you time and money on the water.

Key Features

• 36-piece assorted pack — 12 each of 50lb, 75lb, and 125lb
• Electroplated black steel wire — single strand construction for maximum strength
• Waterproof snap-close case — keeps clips organized and protected
• No retying required — fast lure changes for any style of lure
• Saltwater and freshwater compatible

When the bait in the water is small, five inches of swimbait is the wrong answer. Inside harbors and bays, spotted bay bass are keyed on little stuff most of the year, and a big profile gets looked at and refused.

Short version: 3", 0.35 oz, five baits per pack, weedless on a 1/0 or 2/0 hook. The smallest bait in the Pickle Kick line, the cheapest per bait, and the only size where one pack builds one complete umbrella rig.

Where It Earns Its Keep

• Harbors and bays — the primary use. Spotted bay bass on the bottom around structure, docks, and rock walls.
• Skinny water and calm conditions, where a heavy bait lands too hard and a light one can be crawled.
• When you're getting followed but not bit. Fish tracking a bigger bait and turning off is a size problem more often than a color problem.
• Umbrella rig arms for harbor fishing — five small profiles reads like a real bait ball inside the bay. See below.
• Freshwater largemouth and smallmouth, where a 3" paddle tail is a year-round confidence size.

One Pack Builds One Rig

Five baits per pack, five arms. This is the only Pickle Kick size where the math comes out exact — the PK-5 takes two packs and leaves you three spares, the PK-7 takes three. It also makes the harbor build the cheapest way into umbrella rig fishing by a wide margin.

The lighter baits also drop the total weight of the rig, which means you can throw a harbor A-rig on a more reasonable setup than the 5" and 7" builds demand.

Rigging It

Match a 1/0 or 2/0 hook to the body — considerably smaller than what the PK-5 takes, so don't reach into that box. Run the point up through the belly so it sits flush in the slot. On a body this size, a hook that's even slightly oversized will bind the bait and kill the tail.

Keep the head light. A 1/4 oz head is the general-purpose pairing for harbor bottom work; drop to 1/8 oz in shallow calm water. The whole reason to fish a 3" bait is a slow, natural fall — too much lead and you've thrown that away.

Picking a Color

Inside harbors the water is usually working against you, so contrast matters more than pattern detail:

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Size down before you change color. When fish are following and refusing, the profile is usually the problem. This is the bait you drop to.
• Fish it on the bottom, slowly. Harbor spotties are a bottom-contact fish. Drag, pause, and let it sit longer than feels right.
• Don't reuse your PK-5 hooks. A 4/0 in a 3" body binds the bait and kills the action. 1/0 or 2/0.
• At five per pack, buy the color you'll fish all day. One pack covers a full umbrella rig or a full session of singles.

Common Mistakes

• Too much head weight. The slow fall is the entire advantage of a 3" bait. A heavy head throws it away.
• Oversized hook. The most common rigging error on this size, and it stops the tail dead.
• Fishing it in open water where the bait is big. This isn't the outer-island bait — that's the PK-5.
• Retrieving it like a 5" bait. Faster doesn't help. Bottom contact and pauses do.

Specifications

Colors are listed in the selector above and change with each production run. Hooks and jig heads are sold separately.

What's Included

Five PK-3 swimbaits per pack, in the color selected. Hooks, jig heads, and the umbrella rig are sold separately. One pack rigs a complete five-arm umbrella rig.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many baits come in a pack?
Five.

What hook size does the PK-3 take?
1/0 or 2/0. Much smaller than the PK-5's 4/0–5/0 — an oversized hook binds the body and kills the tail.

How many packs do I need for a five-arm umbrella rig?
One. Five baits, five arms. It's the only Pickle Kick size where the math is exact.

PK-3 or PK-5?
PK-3 inside harbors, bays, and skinny water where the bait is small. PK-5 for open water, boiler rock, and the outer islands. If fish are following your bigger bait and refusing it, drop to the PK-3.

What jig head weight should I use?
1/4 oz for general harbor bottom work, 1/8 oz in shallow calm water. Keep it light — a slow fall is the point of this size.

Is it weedless?
Yes, when the hook point sits flush in the body slot. That's what lets it come through structure without loading up.

Can I use it in freshwater?
Yes. A 3" paddle tail is a year-round size for largemouth and smallmouth on the same slow, bottom-contact presentations.

What are the Aftco colors?
A collaboration series between Kicker and Aftco. Same body and same specs — the difference is the color pattern.

Gear That Goes With It

• Warbaits Neck Breaker Swing Head — 1/8 oz and 1/4 oz are the weights for this bait.
• Kicker PK-Rig Umbrella Rig — five-arm rig with quick clips.
• Kicker Pickle Kick PK-5 — the everyday 5" open-water size.
• Kicker Pickle Kick PK-7 — the big-profile option.
• Kicker Booty Spin — same family with a spinning blade instead of a paddle tail.

Buy It From People Who Fish It

We sell Southern California saltwater tackle from our shop on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, and we fish these baits in the same harbors you do. Not sure whether to size down, or which head weight your water wants? Call us or come in — we'd rather work it out at the counter than have you guess.

The Zappu Wakasagi Extract Chove Rig Powder is a premium Japanese fish-attracting powder engineered to supercharge your soft plastics, live bait, or rigged presentations with a powerful, natural scent that triggers aggressive strikes from predator fish. Featuring concentrated natural Wakasagi (smelt) extract — a favorite forage for bass and other gamefish — this innovative powder stimulates feeding instincts through both scent and visual appeal, turning ordinary baits into irresistible targets.

This groundbreaking formula uses water-soluble natural materials to disperse quickly in the water, creating a shimmering bait cloud around your lure or rig. This cloud mimics a school of fleeing baitfish, drawing in curious or hesitant fish even in low-visibility conditions, stained water, or high-pressure scenarios where standard attractants fall short.

Key Features

• Natural Wakasagi (smelt) extract — Authentic, concentrated scent profile that strongly activates predatory instincts in bass, trout, walleye, and other species that key on small baitfish.
• Water-soluble dispersion — Releases a visible, long-lasting bait cloud for added visual attraction and scent trail that lingers, increasing bite chances on slow retrieves, pauses, or stationary presentations.
• Versatile application — Dust directly onto soft plastics (worms, swimbaits, grubs), jerkbaits, or live bait; ideal for Chove Rig setups, drop-shot, Carolina rigs, Ned rigs, or any finesse or power technique.
• Long-lasting effectiveness — Adheres well to baits for extended use without washing off quickly, providing consistent attraction throughout your outing.
• Compact 40g bottle — Generous size for multiple trips with easy-pour design for precise, mess-free application.

Perfect for tough days when fish are finicky, post-frontal conditions, deep-water presentations, or when you need an edge in clear or pressured waters. Whether you're finesse fishing with small plastics or power-fishing bigger profiles, this powder adds the extra trigger that converts follows into committed bites.

Specifications

The Power Pro Depth-Hunter Offshore braided line is a specialized multi-colored line designed to give offshore anglers precise control over their lure depth and distance from the boat.

Key Performance Features

• Precision Metering: Features a repeating four-color pattern (Blue, Yellow, Green, and Orange) that changes every 100 feet.

• Depth Calibration: Includes a black hash mark every 5 feet for surgical accuracy when vertical jigging or targeting specific depths in the water column.

• Enhanced Body Technology (EBT): Like other Power Pro lines, it is treated with a specialized coating that makes the line rounder and smoother, reducing tip wraps and improving casting distance.

• High Strength-to-Diameter: Constructed with Spectra fiber, it offers high abrasion resistance and near-zero stretch for maximum sensitivity and powerful hook sets.

Benefits for Offshore Anglers

The Major Craft Triplecross Seabass Series Spinning Surf Rods, consisting of 5 models ranging from ML to M power and 8'6'' to 10'6'' in length. Each rod is outfitted with FUJI SIC K-guides and reel seat. Choose the most suitable model based on the desired lure weight and fishing conditions. 

With the TCX-902ML & TCX-962ML being the most ideal for fishing the local surf here in California with your favorite jerkbaits or jigs, targeting white seabass, halibut, calico bass and whatever wants to bite.

TCX-902ML - Length: 9'0", Lure: 10g-30g (Aprx. 1/4oz-1oz), Line: 0.8 P.E.-2.0 P.E. (10-20lb Braid) , Action: Regular Fast

TCX-962ML - Length: 9'6", Lure: 10g-30g (Aprx. 1/4oz-1oz) , Line:0.8 P.E.-2.0 P.E. (10-20LB Braid) Action: Regular Fast

Introducing the innovative Major Craft Ceana Spinning Surf Fishing Rods collection by Major Craft, crafted to enhance your fishing outings. With fast action spinning rods and extra fast action finesse rods, precision performance is guaranteed. From back bay adventures to oceanfront expeditions, these rods are the perfect companion. Experience the exceptional sensitivity of the carbon blank, offering unrivaled finesse control and the ability to detect even the smallest strikes. Ideal for pitching lightweight jigheads, bucktails, and micro jigs, and perfect for catching a variety of species such as fluke, halibut, false albacore, bonito, mackeral, bluefish, and rockfish.

CNSS-902ML- Length: 9'0", Lure:10-30g (aprox. 1/4-1oz), Line: 6-15LB, Action: Fast

CNSS-962M- Length: 9'6", Lure: 10-42G (aprox. 1/4-1 1/4oz), Line: 8-20LB, Action: Fast

The Shimano Talica A is the two-speed lever drag reel SoCal anglers reach for when the fish is bigger than the tackle they'd normally bring — shift to low gear and crank a stubborn bluefin off the bottom, shift back to high and pick up line the second it swims at the boat.

Short version if you're just here for the size: the 12 and 16 are 30 lb reels. The 20 and 25 are 50 lb reels. That's the jump that matters — everything else is capacity.

Which Talica A Size Should I Buy?

This is the question we answer most in the shop. Shimano's line ratings do most of the work — match the reel to the line class you actually fish, not to the fish you hope to catch.

The two decisions that actually matter. First, 12 vs 16 and 20 vs 25 are capacity choices, not power choices — within each pair the line rating is identical, so you're buying yards, not muscle. Second, the jump from 16 to 20 is the real step up in tackle class. If most of your fishing is local with an occasional longer boat, buy the 16. If you're chasing bluefin on the sinker rig, start at the 20.

All six sizes are right-hand retrieve. Shimano does not offer the Talica A in a left-hand model.

What's New in the A Series

The Talica A is Shimano's redesign of the two-speed Talica, not a cosmetic refresh. Four changes matter on the water:

• Infinity Drive — a redesigned drive system that increases drag force while cutting side-load pressure on the spool shaft. Shimano rates it at up to 40% lighter rotation under high drag. In plain terms: the reel gets easier to crank exactly when the fight gets hard.
• Cross Carbon Drag — up to 66 lb maximum drag across the series. Smooth through the full lever range, no grab-and-surge at strike.
• X-Protect — water resistance at the key entry points, adding saltwater durability without the heavy, sticky gear feel that sealing usually costs you.
• Included Light-Line Drag Cam — swap it in for a more gradual drag curve when you're fishing lighter line. Most reels in this class make you buy versatility; this one ships with it.

Why Two Speeds Matters

A single-speed reel forces one compromise: enough gear ratio to pick up line fast, or enough torque to move a fish that has sounded. The Talica A gives you both with a push-button shift.

• High gear — pick up slack the instant a tuna runs at the boat, work a surface iron, or clear a line fast when someone gets crossed.
• Low gear — drop into torque when the fish sounds under the boat and the fight turns into a winching match. This is where anglers who bought single-speed reels start losing fish.
• Shift under load — change gears mid-fight without letting off the drag.

Best Species and Trips

Bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, wahoo, dorado, white seabass, and — in the 40 and 50 — marlin and heavy bottom fish. Fished off Catalina and the Channel Islands, on 1.5-day through long-range boats out of San Diego, on private sportfishers running the 43 and the 302, and on Baja trips.

Best Techniques

• Sinker rig — the dominant SoCal bluefin technique; low gear does the heavy lifting on the way up.
• Flylining sardines and mackerel for tuna and yellowtail (12 and 16).
• Yo-yo iron — high gear burns the jig, low gear cranks the fish out of the deep.
• Flat-fall and knife jigs in 200–400 ft (20 and 25).
• Kite fishing and trolling (25, 40, 50).

Rod, Line and Leader Pairings

• 12 II A / 16 II A — a 7'–8' conventional rod rated 20–40 lb. Browse our conventional rods.
• 20 II A / 25 II A — a 7'–8' rail or sinker-rig rod rated 40–60 lb.
• 40 II A / 50 II A — 60–130 lb class trolling or heavy stand-up rod.
• Braid backing — Power Pro. Shimano rates this reel's capacity against PowerPro specifically, so the numbers below are accurate with it.
• Topshot and leader — Seaguar fluorocarbon for leader, mono topshot in the class listed above.
• Terminal — heavy-duty swivels and snaps rated above your topshot.

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Set strike drag with a scale, not by feel. Roughly a third of your topshot's rated breaking strength is a sane starting point for bait fishing. Most anglers who set it by hand are fishing far lighter than they think.
• Try the Light-Line Drag Cam before you write it off. If you fish 25 or 30 lb on a 12 or 16, the gentler curve genuinely reduces pulled hooks at strike. It's in the box — use it.
• Shift to low before you need it. Anglers wait until their arms are gone. Shift the moment the fish stops running and starts circling.
• Rinse with low-pressure fresh water, never a jet. X-Protect is water resistance, not a submarine hatch. High-pressure water drives salt past the seals.
• Back the lever off to free spool for storage. Parking it at full compresses the drag washers and flattens your drag curve over a season.

Common Mistakes

• Buying the 12 or 16 and spooling it with 50 or 60 lb mono. These are 20–30 lb mono reels. Overloading the line class costs you capacity and puts the drag stack outside its design range.
• Overfilling the spool. Line piling above the spool lip jams under the frame at high drag. Leave about 1/8" of clearance.
• Braid straight to the hook with no topshot. Braid has no stretch; on a lever drag at strike, that's how hooks pull.
• Skipping annual service. Two-speed reels have more moving parts. One service a season keeps the shift crisp.

Specifications

Maximum drag pressure up to 66 lb across the series. Specifications from Shimano North America. Shimano does not publish low-gear ratios or per-model maximum drag figures — call the shop and we'll pull them from the service manual for the size you're considering.

What's Included

One Shimano Talica A two-speed lever drag reel in the size selected, plus the included Light-Line Drag Cam for fishing lighter line systems. Covered by Shimano's 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Rod, line, and reel cover sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Talica A do I need for bluefin tuna?
For the fish most SoCal boats are on, the 20 II A is the sweet spot — rated for 30–50 lb mono and holds 725 yards of 65 lb braid. For long-range trips targeting fish over 100 lb, the 25 II A gives you the same line class with 900 yards of 65 lb. The 16 II A works for school-grade fish but tops out at 30 lb mono.

What's the difference between the Talica A and the older Talica II?
Four things: Infinity Drive (up to 40% lighter rotation under high drag), Cross Carbon Drag rated to 66 lb max, X-Protect water resistance, and an included Light-Line Drag Cam for a gentler drag curve on light line. It's a redesign, not a color change.

Can I use a Talica A for yellowtail?
Yes — the 12 II A and 16 II A are excellent yellowtail reels, especially for yo-yo iron where low gear pulls a fish up out of the structure.

How much braid does the Talica 25 hold?
900 yards of 65 lb PowerPro, 730 of 80 lb, or 620 of 100 lb.

Is the Talica A available in left-hand retrieve?
No. All six sizes are right-hand only.

Should I fill it with braid or mono?
Braid backing with a mono topshot is standard for SoCal bait fishing. Straight mono is still common for trolling in the 40 and 50.

Do you spool reels?
Yes. We spool reels at our Santa Clarita shop and can spool your Talica before it ships. Add the line and spooling option on this page, or call us.

Does it come with a warranty?
Shimano covers it for 1 year against manufacturing defects. We'll walk you through the service process if you ever need it.

Gear That Goes With It

• Shimano Talica Reel Covers — protects the finish in a rod locker or gunwale rack.
• Shimano Talica-A T-Bar Handle Replacement — more leverage for heavy-drag fights.
• Conventional Rods
• Power Pro Braid
• All Lever Drag Reels

Buy It From People Who Fish It

Tackle Express has been selling Southern California saltwater tackle since 2010, from our shop on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these reels on the same boats you do. If you want a recommendation before you spend $660 or more, call us or come in — we'd rather sell you the right size once than take a return on the wrong one.

Pick your size above and order today. Bluefin season doesn't wait for shipping.

Premium Double Barrel Leader Sleeves for Big Game Fishing

AFW Thin Wall Double Barrel Sleeves deliver professional-grade performance for rigging heavy mono leaders and wire. Trusted by tournament anglers and tackle manufacturers worldwide, these sleeves feature a burr-free, nonabrasive finish that won't damage your line while providing maximum holding strength.

Key Features:

• Available in Nickel plated and Black oxidized finishes
• Thin wall design optimized for big game mono leader material
• Burr-free interior protects line integrity
• Superior corrosion resistance for saltwater applications
• Compatible with wire, monofilament, and fluorocarbon leaders
• High strength construction for targeting tuna, marlin, and other big game species

Why Choose AFW Sleeves?

When you're battling trophy fish, your terminal tackle needs to perform flawlessly. AFW's precision-engineered sleeves provide the reliability professional captains demand, with consistent crimping performance that ensures your leaders won't fail when it matters most.

Constructed with 600D recycled polyester, Aftco Reel Bags offer durability and security for your reels with YKK zippers and nylon straps. The padded interior protects your reels while the internal zippered mesh pocket conveniently stores essential items like spool tape, clamps, and tools. These bags can easily be taken apart and flattened for compact storage. Available in two sizes, they can accommodate a variety of reel sizes.

Small:

Designed for baitcasters and spinning reels

• External dimensions: 12" H x 9.5" W x 9.5" D
• Internal dimensions: 5.5" H x 8.5" W x 9.5" D

Medium:

Designed for large lever and star drag reels and big spinner reels

• External dimensions: 13.5" H x 11.5" W x 11.5" D
• Internal dimensions: 6" H x 11" W x 11" D

• External dimensions: 13.5" H x 11.5" W x 11.5" D
• Internal dimensions: 6" H x 11" W x 11" D
• 8 individual compartments
• 4 padded sleeves for stacking reels on top or next to each other
• Mesh pocket for tools and clamps
• Folds down flat
• YKK Zippers
• 600 D recycled polyester fabric
• Military spec buckles

   

Nomad DTX Minnow 220 Heavy Duty boasts revolutionary features such as Patented Nomad Autotune, Gorilla Through Wire, and Hydrospeed advanced design technology. This trolling minnow is in a class of its own, with a unique body shape that creates a distressed baitfish swimming action. The concealed Hydrospeed belly eyelet allows for faster trolling speeds, while the Autotune tow point and bib system ensure a deep, straight, and true swim every time.

Designed and tested by the Nomad Sportfishing Team in Australia, Nomad DTX Minnow 220 Heavy Duty lure is known for their durability and effectiveness. Each lure specifically crafted for a distinct purpose and balanced with tested hooks. Ideal for Tuna, Wahoo, Mackerel, and Mahi Mahi, the DTX 9” Minnow can be trolled at speeds up to 14 knots and reach depths of over 50ft+.

The BKK Ringed Mutsu Medium  Offset Circle Hooks is a versatile hook perfect for all your live and chunk bait needs onshore and off. The offset point and SS coating make for quick hook sets and easy bait rigging, while BKK's HCS (Hyper Carbon Steel) keeps the hook lightweight yet sturdy enough to handle big catches. Plus, the added solid ring adds extra liveliness to your bait, reeling in even more bites.

This is a medium wire hook so it's diameter makes it ideal for medium grade fish.  If the wire is too small, it will bend out causing a lost fish.  If it's too large in diameter, it will kill the bait and is harder to hook into the fishes mouth.  

They have a sharp offset point and a Super Slide (SS) coating that helps with faster hookups and easier bait rigging. The hooks are also made with BKK's proprietary Hyper Carbon Steel wire, which is 25% stronger and 30% harder than traditional high carbon steels.

Next-Generation Single Speed Power for Offshore Fishing

The Avet G2 MXL Single Speed Lever Drag Reels deliver next-generation single speed power designed for serious offshore anglers who prefer simplicity and reliability. Built with Avet's legendary precision machining and enhanced G2 (Generation 2) features, these reels provide exceptional power, smoothness, and durability for battling tuna, marlin, wahoo, and other trophy offshore gamefish. The G2 MXL Single Speed represents Avet's commitment to continuous innovation in proven single-speed design.

Enhanced G2 Single Speed Design

• Single Speed Simplicity: Reliable single-speed design eliminates complexity for maximum dependability
• Optimized Gear Ratio: Carefully selected gear ratio provides ideal balance of speed and power
• Smooth Operation: Precision gearing ensures buttery-smooth retrieves under all conditions
• G2 Enhancements: Improved design features for enhanced performance and reliability
• Proven Design: Time-tested single-speed configuration trusted by serious anglers

Premium Lever Drag System

• Lever Drag Control: Precise lever drag provides quick, accurate adjustments during the fight
• Smooth Drag Performance: Advanced drag system provides consistent performance under extreme pressure
• Powerful Drag Capacity: Exceptional drag power handles serious offshore gamefish
• Heat Dissipation: Advanced materials maintain consistent performance during extended battles
• Preset Capability: Set drag to desired setting and return to it instantly with lever

Premium Construction and Durability

• Precision Machined: CNC-machined from solid 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum for maximum strength
• Corrosion-Resistant Finish: Premium anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and durability
• Stainless Steel Components: Premium stainless steel gears and hardware withstand saltwater environments
• Sealed Bearings: High-quality sealed bearings provide smooth rotation and corrosion resistance
• G2 Improvements: Enhanced features based on years of offshore fishing experience
• Made in USA: Proudly manufactured in California with exceptional quality control

Offshore Big Game Applications

The G2 MXL Single Speed excels in demanding offshore big game fishing where simplicity and reliability are paramount. Target trophy tuna on long-range trips, battle marlin and sailfish on the troll, pursue wahoo and dorado, work deep-water jigs for grouper and amberjack, or fish live bait for trophy gamefish. The single-speed design provides dependable performance without the complexity of multi-speed systems, making it ideal for anglers who value proven simplicity and maximum reliability.

Key Features

Avet Quality and Innovation

Avet has been the choice of serious offshore anglers for decades, and the G2 MXL Single Speed continues this proud tradition with next-generation enhancements and precision machining. Every reel is manufactured in California to exacting standards and tested to ensure reliable performance. From weekend anglers to professional crews and tournament fishermen, the G2 MXL Single Speed delivers the power and reliability that serious offshore fishing demands.

Experience the next-generation offshore performance that serious anglers trust. The Avet G2 MXL Single Speed isn't just a reel—it's a precision tool built with enhanced features and proven simplicity.

Dominate offshore waters with Avet G2 MXL Single Speed—where next-generation design meets proven reliability.

Duran's DFP Tuna Spikes are CNC machined out of 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel with an Anodized 6061 Aluminum Handle. The spike is threaded and epoxied to the handle ensuring that the spike will never twist or fall apart over time. This tool is designed to spike quickly and directly into the brain of a fish, causing immediate brain death. A fish brain is usually located slightly behind and above the eye. When spiked correctly, the fish fins flare and the fish relaxes, immediately ceasing all motion. The blood contained in the fish flesh retracts to the gut cavity, which produces a better colored and flavored fillet.

Warnings and Disclaimer

• You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase this Product;
• This Product contains sharp objects that may cause injury;
• This Product MUST be used with CAUTION;
• This Product MUST be kept OUT OF REACH FROM CHILDREN;
• This Product may cause injury if not used with caution; if misused; or otherwise not used for its intended purpose.
• Purchaser holds harmless seller for any harm, injury or responsibility for harm or injury, resulting from use of the Product.
• Purchaser holds harmless seller for any result of failure to use in accordance with law.

Wide-Profile Two-Speed Power for Trophy Big Game

The Avet HX 5/2 Raptor Plus MC 2 Speed Reels deliver wide-profile two-speed power designed for serious trophy big game anglers. Built with Avet's legendary precision machining and advanced features including the Raptor drag system and MC (Multi-Color) anodized finish, these reels provide exceptional power, massive line capacity, and uncompromising durability for battling the largest tuna, marlin, and other trophy offshore gamefish. Made in the USA, the HX 5/2 Raptor Plus MC represents the ultimate in Avet's wide-profile big game reel lineup.

Best For

• Giant bluefin and yellowfin tuna on long-range trips
• Marlin, sailfish, and trophy billfish offshore
• Large yellowtail and white seabass on heavy tackle
• Deep-water jigging for trophy pelagic species
• Long-range party boat fishing requiring maximum line capacity
• Any big game situation demanding maximum power and drag

Two-Speed Power for Trophy Fish

• Dual Gear Ratios: 5.0:1 high speed and 2.4:1 low speed optimized for trophy big game
• High Speed (5.0:1): Gain line on running fish and work lures efficiently
• Low Speed (2.4:1): Ultra-powerful ratio delivers maximum cranking power when trophy fish sound or make deep runs
• Wide Profile: Wide HX design provides maximum line capacity for long-range fishing
• Smooth Shifting: Reliable two-speed mechanism allows quick transitions during extended battles

Advanced Raptor Drag System

• Raptor Drag: Advanced carbon fiber drag system provides smooth, consistent performance under extreme pressure
• Massive Drag Capacity: Exceptional drag power handles the most powerful trophy gamefish
• Heat Dissipation: Advanced materials maintain consistent performance during marathon battles
• Precise Adjustment: Fine-tune drag settings for optimal fish-fighting performance

Premium Heavy-Duty Construction

• Precision Machined: CNC-machined from solid 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum for maximum strength
• MC Anodized Finish: Multi-color anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and a distinctive look
• Stainless Steel Components: Premium stainless steel gears and hardware withstand extreme saltwater environments
• Sealed Bearings: High-quality sealed bearings provide smooth rotation and corrosion resistance
• Lever Drag: Precise lever drag control for quick adjustments during the fight
• Made in USA: Proudly manufactured in California with exceptional quality control

Models

Experience the legendary big game performance that trophy hunters trust. The Avet HX 5/2 Raptor Plus MC isn't just a reel—it's a precision tool built to handle the largest gamefish with maximum line capacity.

Conquer trophy big game with Avet HX 5/2 Raptor Plus MC—where wide-profile capacity meets legendary power.