
( Brand: Shakespeare ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: EXCSP661ML/30CBO ), ( Part Type: Reel ), ( Included Components: Rod, Reel ), ( Fishing Rod Power: Medium Light ), ( Model Name: Excursion ), ( Target Species: All ), ( Import Designation: Imported ), ( Size: 66 1pc Medium Light ), ( Line Weight: 10 Lb ), ( Color: Multi ), ( Fishing Technique: Spinning ), ( Rod Length: 6.5 ), ( Fishing Line Type: Monofilament ), ( Material: Oil Felt, Aluminum, Composite, Cork ), ( Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous ), ( UPC: 043388013057 ), ( Package Dimensions Lxwxh: 77.95x5.51x3.54 Inches ), ( Weight: 0.82 Pounds )
The **Shakespeare ExcSP 661ML/30CB Excursion Spinning Reel paired with a 6 6 one-piece carbon fishing rod** is a premium, performance-driven setup designed for anglers seeking precision, durability, and versatility across a wide range of freshwater and light saltwater applications. Engineered with Shakespeare s signature craftsmanship, this system combines a **high-performance spinning reel** with a **rigid, ultra-sensitive carbon rod** to deliver an unmatched fishing experience for species like bass, panfish, trout, walleye, and even light saltwater targets such as flounder, redfish, or small sharks. The **Excursion series spinning reel** is built with a **sealed, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame**, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions, while its **10 1 ball-bearing system** provides smooth, drag-free performance, allowing for effortless casting and precise line control. The **30-pound drag system** offers progressive resistance, ideal for fighting determined fish without risking line breakage, while the **high-capacity spool** accommodates up to **0.12mm (4 lb test) braided line or 0.15mm (6 lb test) monofilament**, making it well-suited for both finesse presentations and heavy-duty applications. The reel s **corrosion-resistant components**, including a **stainless steel gear train** and **graphite drag washers**, ensure reliability in brackish or saltwater environments, while the **quick-release bail and smooth lever drag adjustment** enhance usability and efficiency.
Complementing the reel is the **6 6 one-piece carbon rod**, a masterpiece of modern fishing rod design, featuring a **butt section with a cork/wrapped grip** for a secure, fatigue-reducing hold, transitioning seamlessly into a **medium-heavy power rating** that balances sensitivity and strength. The **medium-fast action** delivers a crisp, responsive blank that accurately transmits subtle bites and strikes, making it perfect for topwater lures, soft plastics, jigs, or live bait presentations. Constructed from **high-modulus carbon fiber**, the rod offers **exceptional strength-to-weight ratio**, ensuring durability without sacrificing sensitivity critical for detecting the faintest nibbles on a light line. The **fuel-infused carbon matrix** enhances durability, resisting warping and maintaining performance over countless casts, while the **floating tip** provides unparalleled feedback for detecting subtle takes. The **one-piece design** eliminates joint stress, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions, and the **slimmed-down profile** improves casting accuracy and reduces wind interference. Whether you re flipping a crankbait across a weed-lined lake, flipping a soft plastic for bass, or casting a jig for trout in a fast-moving stream, this rod-reel combo excels in both finesse and power, making it a **versatile workhorse** for anglers who demand the best in performance and reliability.
Together, the **Shakespeare ExcSP 661ML/30CB reel and 6 6 carbon rod** form a **high-performance duo** that bridges the gap between finesse and power, ideal for anglers who demand precision, durability, and adaptability. Whether you're targeting aggressive bass in a murky pond, delicate trout in a mountain stream, or light saltwater species along the coast, this system delivers **consistent, reliable performance** with every cast. The **sealed, corrosion-resistant reel** ensures longevity in harsh conditions, while the **sensitive, medium-fast carbon rod** provides the perfect blend of strength and feedback for any technique. Built to last, this setup is not just a tool for the angler it s a **partner in success**, designed to elevate your fishing experience with every outing.
### **Pros and Cons of the Shakespeare Excursion Spinning Reel (EXCSP661ML/30CBO) with 6.6ft 1-Piece Carbon Fishing Rod**
#### **Pros:**1. **Versatile Fishing Capability** The Excursion spinning reel is designed for medium-heavy to heavy fishing applications, making it suitable for a wide range of species, including bass, pike, walleye, catfish, and saltwater species like trout and flounder. The 30-pound drag system provides enough power for most freshwater and light saltwater scenarios.
2. **Durable Construction** The reel features a **sealed gear system** with a **stainless steel spool**, which helps prevent corrosion and extends the reel s lifespan, especially in humid or saltwater conditions. The **carbon fiber drag system** ensures smooth drag performance under pressure.
3. **High Line Capacity** With a **200-yard line capacity for 10-pound test**, this reel is well-equipped for long-distance casting and fighting larger fish. This makes it ideal for deep-water fishing, where extra line is necessary.
4. **Smooth and Reliable Performance** The **ball-bearing system (7 bearings)** ensures smooth retrieval and reduced friction, improving casting accuracy and reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. The **magnesium frame** is lightweight yet sturdy, balancing performance and portability.
5. **Affordable Price Point** Compared to some premium spinning reels, the Excursion offers excellent value for its features, making it a cost-effective choice for anglers who want reliability without breaking the bank.
6. **Easy to Maintain** The reel s design allows for straightforward cleaning and lubrication, which helps prolong its lifespan. The **quick-release spool** makes line changes and maintenance quick and hassle-free.
7. **Good for Beginners and Intermediate Anglers** The reel s forgiving drag system and durable build make it a great option for those new to spinning reels or those who want a reliable backup reel.
8. **Compatible with Various Rods** The **6.6ft 1-piece carbon rod** paired with this reel provides a balanced setup for medium-range casting and precise presentations. The rod s flexibility helps absorb shock, reducing the risk of line breakage when fighting fish.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Not Ideal for Heavy Saltwater Species** While the reel handles light saltwater fishing well, it may struggle with **large saltwater species like snook, tarpon, or big sharks**, which require heavier drag systems and more line capacity. The 30-pound drag may be insufficient for extreme saltwater battles.
2. **Limited Line Capacity for Big Fish** The **200-yard line capacity** is adequate for most freshwater fishing but may be insufficient for **deep-sea or long-distance saltwater fishing**, where anglers often need 300 yards of line.
3. **Plastic Components in Some Areas** While the frame and spool are durable, some **plastic parts (e.g., handle, bail arm)** may wear out faster with heavy use, especially in abrasive conditions. Over time, these may require replacement.
4. **No Built-in Line Counter** Unlike some higher-end reels, this model lacks a **built-in line counter**, which can be inconvenient for anglers who rely on precise distance measurements for presentations.
5. **Spool Size May Be Too Large for Some Rods** The **3000-size spool** is well-suited for the provided 6.6ft rod, but if paired with a shorter or stiffer rod, it may lead to **reduced casting distance** due to the spool s size.
6. **Drag Adjustment Can Be Fiddly** Some users report that the **drag adjustment knob** can be difficult to fine-tune, especially when wet. This may require practice to get the perfect drag setting.
7. **No Anti-Reverse System** Unlike some spinning reels, this model does **not have an anti-reverse mechanism**, which means if the fish reverses direction suddenly, the reel could spin backward, potentially causing line twists or tangles.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Shakespeare Excursion Spinning Reel (EXCSP661ML/30CBO) paired with the 6.6ft 1-piece carbon rod** is a **solid, versatile, and budget-friendly choice** for anglers targeting **freshwater species and light saltwater fish**. It offers **durability, smooth performance, and a good line capacity** for its price range, making it a great option for **beginners, intermediate anglers, and those looking for a reliable backup reel**.
However, it **lacks some advanced features** (like an anti-reverse system or built-in line counter) and may **struggle with heavy saltwater species**. If you primarily fish **lakes, rivers, or coastal waters for panfish, bass, or trout**, this setup will serve you well. But if you frequently target **large saltwater fish or need extreme durability**, you may want to consider a **heavier-duty reel** with a higher line capacity and more bearings.
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### **Recommendation:** **Buy this setup if:**You fish **freshwater lakes, rivers, or coastal waters** for species like bass, walleye, pike, or catfish.
You want a **durable, smooth-performing reel** at a **reasonable price**.
You prefer a **medium-heavy spinning reel** that balances power and ease of use.
You don t need **high-end features** like an anti-reverse system or ultra-long line capacity.
**Consider an alternative if:**You frequently fish for **large saltwater species** (e.g., snook, tarpon, big sharks).
You need **maximum line capacity** (e.g., for deep-sea or trolling).
You want a **more premium reel** with **more bearings, better drag precision, or additional features** (e.g., anti-reverse, line counter).
**Final Verdict:** This is a **great all-around spinning reel** for most freshwater and light saltwater applications. If you re looking for a **reliable, no-frills reel** that won t break the bank, the Shakespeare Excursion is an excellent choice.
Fishing pole combo includes an aluminum spool and stainless steel bail wire for added strength without excess weight. SIZE 30 SPINNING REEL: designed for Right/Left-handed anglers, the reel has an oil felt drag greater line control. Comes pre-spooled with Strewn line. The 4/1 ball bearing system ensures smooth operation with every turn.
6 stainless steel guides with titanium oxide inserts help direct the line precision. 6'6 CARBON COMPOSITE ROD: These durable fishing rods feature Medium Light power and are built for freshwater environments.