Daiwa Lexa Type HD Casting Reel

The battle-tested Lexa line has been upgraded and reintroduced as the Daiwa Lexa Type HD Casting Reel — built specifically for the rigors of big bait fishing where standard baitcasters fall short. A completely redesigned heavy-duty clutch system handles the demands of large swimbaits, heavy jigs, and big bait presentations that stress conventional clutch mechanisms. Paired with an all-grease bearing system for smooth, silent operation without sacrificing freespool or casting distance, stainless steel drive and pinion gears for long-term durability, and Magforce cast control for precise, adjustable braking. Available in 300 size (22 lb drag, $319.99) and 400 size (25 lb drag, $389.99) across multiple gear ratios and both right and left hand retrieve.

Key Features

• Redesigned Heavy-Duty Clutch System — Clutch mechanism specifically engineered for big bait fishing; handles the sustained stress of large swimbaits, heavy jigs, and big bait presentations that cause premature wear and failure in standard baitcaster clutch systems.
• All-Grease Bearing System — Full grease bearing system keeps the reel running smooth and silent without sacrificing freespool or casting distance; grease lubrication provides long-term bearing protection in heavy-use applications.
• Stainless Steel Drive Gear & Pinion Gear — Stainless steel main and pinion gears for maximum durability and corrosion resistance; maintains smooth, precise gear mesh under heavy drag loads and sustained big bait fishing pressure.
• 6CRBB + 1RB Bearing System — 6 corrosion-resistant ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing; CRBB placement at key load and exposure points for long-term smooth operation.
• UTD (Ultimate Tournament Carbon Drag) — Up to 22 lb max drag on 300 size and 25 lb max drag on 400 size; carbon drag washers for smooth, consistent drag pressure from the initial hookset through the full fight.
• Magforce Cast Control — Magnetic cast control system provides precise, adjustable braking for a wide range of lure weights and casting conditions; reduces backlash without sacrificing casting distance.
• Aluminum Frame & Side Plate (Gear Side) — Aluminum frame and gear-side side plate for precise bearing and gear alignment under load; reduces flex and binding during heavy drag applications.
• Swept Handle with Weight-Reducing Cutouts — Extended counterbalanced swept handle with machined cutouts for reduced weight and maximum power and torque; 100mm handle on 300 size, 120mm handle on 400 size.
• EVA Custom Handle Knob — EVA foam handle knob for comfortable grip during extended casting and retrieves; resists water absorption and maintains grip in wet conditions.

Product Specifications

Model Selection Guide

• 300 Size (22 lb drag, 12.3 oz) — Lighter, more compact platform for freshwater big bait applications; 12/240 mono or 30/240 braid capacity for swimbaits, large jigs, and heavy presentations in freshwater and light inshore applications. 100mm handle.
• 400 Size (25 lb drag, 17.1 oz) — Larger platform with more line capacity (17/245 mono, 40/300 braid) and 3 additional pounds of max drag for heavier big bait applications, calico bass on large swimbaits, and inshore saltwater use. 120mm handle.
• H (6.3:1) — Standard Retrieve — Balanced gear ratio for big bait fishing where a moderate retrieve speed is preferred; best for slow-rolling large swimbaits and heavy jigs where retrieve speed control is critical.
• HS/HSL (7.1:1–7.4:1) — High Speed — Fast retrieve for burning swimbaits, covering water quickly, and fast line recovery after long casts; HSL = left hand retrieve.
• XS (8.1:1) — Extra High Speed — Maximum retrieve speed for burning presentations and fast line recovery; best for techniques requiring the fastest possible retrieve or for anglers who prefer to slow down a fast reel rather than speed up a slow one.
• PWR (5.1:1) — Power Retrieve (400 only) — Lowest gear ratio for maximum cranking torque; best for deep-diving crankbaits, heavy bottom contact presentations, and situations where maximum power is needed to turn large fish away from structure.

Best For

• Big Bait Fishing — Heavy-duty clutch system and stainless steel gears are the defining advantage for large swimbait fishing; handles the sustained stress of 3–8 oz swimbaits that cause premature wear in standard baitcasters.
• Calico Bass — 400 size with 25 lb drag and 40–65 lb braid capacity for calico bass on large swimbaits and heavy jigs; Magforce cast control for precise casting accuracy around structure.
• Freshwater Bass — 300 size for freshwater bass on large swimbaits, heavy jigs, and big bait presentations; 22 lb drag and 30–40 lb braid capacity for heavy cover applications.
• Heavy Jig Fishing — UTD carbon drag and stainless steel gears handle the sustained pressure of heavy jig fishing; PWR model (5.1:1) for maximum torque when working heavy jigs in deep water or strong current.