For anglers looking for a high-quality baitcasting reel, the Tanacom 500 and Tanacom 750 are two excellent options to consider from Daiwa’s Tanacom series. But with similar features and specifications, it can be tough to decide which reel is the better fit for your fishing needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the Tanacom 500 and 750, their pros and cons, and help you determine which reel is the right choice for your baitcasting setup.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | Tanacom 500 | Tanacom 750 |
| Gear Ratio | 6.3:1 | 6.3:1 |
| Bearings | 5SS + 1RB | 6SS + 1RB |
| Max Drag | 22 lbs | 22 lbs |
| Mono Capacity | 200yds/20lb | 230yds/20lb |
| Braid Capacity | 80yds/65lb | 120yds/65lb |
| Weight | 12.5 oz | 13.9 oz |
| Price | $299.99 | $329.99 |
Overview of the Tanacom 500 and 750 Reels
The Tanacom 500 and 750 sit in the middle of Daiwa’s Tanacom saltwater baitcasting reel lineup. Both reels are designed for serious inshore and offshore fishing, built on a rugged corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and spool.
The Tanacom 500 holds approximately 200 yards of 20lb monofilament or 80 yards of 65lb braided line.
It features 5 stainless steel ball bearings and a gear ratio of 6.3:1.
The Tanacom 750 shares the same gear ratio but ups the capacity to hold 230 yards of 20lb mono or 120 yards of 65lb braid.
It has 7 ball bearings (6 stainless, 1 roller) for added smoothness.
Both reels utilize Daiwa’s Digigear system for precise gear meshing and incorporate the Magsealed line roller and main shaft for keeping water and debris out of the reel. They also have the same maximum drag pressure of 22 lbs.
So on paper, the reels share a lot of common specs and technologies. Now let’s dive into the details on each reel’s features and performance.
Also Read: Differences Between DRAGONtail And Tenkara USA Fishing Rods.
Key Features and Technologies of Tanacom 500 And 750 Fishing Reels
Construction and Components
The Tanacom 500 and 750 feature an aluminum frame and sideplates paired with a lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum spool. The rigid metal construction gives them the durability to withstand saltwater fishing demands.
Inside, the Tanacom 500 runs on 5 stainless steel ball bearings plus 1 roller bearing. The Tanacom 750 upgrades this to 6 stainless steel ball bearings and 1 roller bearing in the drive shaft. Those extra ball bearings make for noticeably smoother cranking and casting.
Both reels utilize Daiwa’s Digigear system, which precision machines the gears for accurate meshing and rotation.
This improves efficiency and reduces gear wear over time.
Sealing and protection are provided by Daiwa’s Magsealed technology.
Magnetic oil seals create a barrier on the line roller and main gear to block out water, sand, and debris.
This keeps the internal components lubricated and functioning smoothly.
For drag performance, the Tanacom 500 and 750 produce a maximum of 22 pounds of smooth, consistent pressure. The drag uses Daiwa’s Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD) system, which features multiple drag washers and a rotating clutch for refined adjustment.
Braking and Cast Control Systems
To control backlashes and enable long, accurate casts, the Tanacom reels incorporate centrifugal and magnetic braking features:
- Centrifugal Brake – Uses weights inside the sideplate to provide automatic braking force proportional to spool speed. Helps slow the spool at the end of a cast.
- Cast Control – Allows adjustment of the centrifugal brake weights for customized casting control.
- Magnetic Brake – Uses magnets inside the sideplate to provide consistent braking force throughout the cast. Eliminates spool overrun.
Having both centrifugal and magnetic brakes gives anglers versatility for tuning the reels to match different bait weights and fishing techniques.
Corrosion Resistance
Being designed for saltwater fishing, the Tanacom 500 and 750 pay special attention to corrosion resistance:
- Aluminum frame, sideplates, and spool resist oxidation and electrolysis.
- Stainless steel components on key parts like the main shaft, handle arm screw, and ball bearings.
- Daiwa’s proprietary Aluminum Corrosion Guard (ACG) treatments protect the gearing and interior.
- Military-spec anodized coatings on the aluminum surfaces.
- Nickel-plated gearing and zinc drive gear for marine protection.
- Waterproof drag grease and oil keep saltwater out.
Together this arsenal of features enables the reels to stand up to salt, sand, and surf.
Ergonomics and Comfort
In terms of handling, the Tanacom 500 and 750 share the same ergonomic design:
- Low profile compact shape fits comfortably in the palm.
- Swept handle provides leverage and retrieves 35 inches of line per crank.
- Oversize non-slip rubber grips stay secure when wet.
- Adjustable cast control and clicker star drag knobs.
- Lightweight at just 12.5 oz (500 size) and 13.9 oz (750 size).
The reels balance nicely on baitcasting rods and reduce fatigue during all-day fishing trips.
Also Read: Comparison of Daiwa BG And Fuego Fishing Reels.
Performance and Field Use
Now let’s see how the Tanacom reels hold up during actual fishing and how the 500 and 750 models compare.
- Casting Distance and Accuracy
Thanks to the dual centrifugal and magnetic braking systems, both the Tanacom 500 and 750 can achieve impressively long, pinpoint casts. Their digitally machined brass gears and robust drag systems provide the power needed for launching heavy lures and baits.
Between the two, the 750 model gains a slight edge in max distance due to the extra line capacity. But both reels are easily capable of reaching 100+ yards with practice.
For accuracy, the magnetic brakes let you fine tune the spool speed for consistent performance. This is critical for placing baits right on target time after time.
Overall, few reels can match the Tanacom’s versatile casting abilities in this price range.
- Drag Strength and Smoothness
Hooking hard fighting fish like tuna, kings, or big stripers demands a reel with a powerful, smooth drag – exactly what the Tanacom reels deliver.
Their carbon fiber drag washers, greased stainless steel components, and UTD design produce drag pressure up to 22 pounds.
The maximum setting has strength to turn just about any fish, while the lower range provides fine control for smaller catches.
Engaging the drag results in steady, reliable tension without sudden jumps or jerks.
This gives anglers confidence during lengthy battles with strong runners. The consistent pressure also helps prevent pulled hooks and break-offs.
For big game saltwater fishing, the Tanacom’s refined yet brute drag strength is a major asset.
- Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Anglers fishing rough coastal environments need reels that can take abuse and resist corrosion. Here the Tanacom reels live up to their reputation.
The rigid aluminum frames shrug off hard knocks and drops that would bend lesser reels. Internally, features like the Digigear system and Magsealed bearings maintain operation through constant soaking and dunkings.
Exposure to saltwater can quickly corrode metal components. But the Tanacom’s stainless steel parts, nickel plating, and anti-corrosion treatments hold up season after season. They’ll keep performing long after cheaper reels have succumbed to the salt.
For fishing guides and anglers logging 100+ days a year on the water, the Tanacom’s construction provides many years of service.
- Value and Cost Considerations
With premium construction and performance capabilities, the Tanacom reels sit at the higher end of the price spectrum.
The Tanacom 500 retails around $299.99 while the 750 runs approximately $329.99. So they represent a significant investment for anglers.
However, their performance lives up to the price tag and helps justify the cost. Compared to reels that sell for less, the Tanacom models outlast and outperform lower priced competitors.
Over years of ownership, the Tanacom’s smoothness, power, and corrosion resistance deliver a superior fishing experience. Their quality engineering provides long term value compared to disposable budget reels.
For anglers who can afford the investment, the Tanacom 500 and 750 deliver premium capabilities worthy of the price. But budget-minded buyers may want to consider more affordable options.
Tanacom 500 And 750 Comparison
Now that we’ve covered the shared features and performance of the reels, let’s directly compare the Tanacom 500 and 750 models:
- Line Capacity – The 750 holds approximately 30 more yards of monofilament or braided line. This provides extra casting distance and capacity for larger fish.
- Bearings – The 750 has 7 total bearings (6 stainless, 1 roller) compared to the 500’s 5 stainless and 1 roller. Those extra ball bearings give it a slight edge in smoothness.
- Weight – At 13.9 oz, the 750 is 1.4 oz heavier than the 500’s 12.5 oz weight. A minimal difference that most anglers won’t notice.
- Price – The 750 costs around $30 more than the 500 model. The extra line capacity and bearings come at a slightly higher price.
For most inshore and coastal fishing applications, the Tanacom 500 has ample capacity and smoothness for its price point. The 750 provides upgrades in these areas but comes at a 15% price premium.
The choice comes down to your needs and budget. If you regularly pursue larger offshore species and need extra line capacity, the 750 warrants consideration. But the 500 delivers sufficient versatility for the majority of anglers at a slightly lower cost.
Tanacom 500/750 Reels: PROS & CONS
To summarize the key advantages and tradeoffs of the Tanacom reels:
PROS
- Long, accurate casting capabilities
- Powerful 22 lb carbon drag for big fish
- Smooth performance from quality ball bearings
- Precise Digigear machining and meshing
- Excellent corrosion resistance for saltwater
- Durable construction built to last
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
CONS
- Expensive price tag
- Occasional inconsistencies in centrifugal brake
- Low gear ratio not ideal for burning baits
- Some flex in aluminum frame under heavy loads
- High maintenance in sandy conditions
Also Read: Comparison of Spool Speed Bearings And Boca Bearings For Fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
With its large line capacity and powerful drag, the Tanacom 750 is an ideal reel for targeting big game saltwater species offshore. It has the muscle and capacity for tuna, wahoo, marlin, and other hard fighting open water fish. It also has the versatility to handle freshwater salmon, steelhead, and heavy-duty catfish angling.
The Tanacom 500 can hold approximately 80 yards of 65 pound braided line. This gives it plenty of line strength and capacity for casting large baits and covering long distances offshore. The reel can also be spooled with thinner braids like 30-50 lb test to maximize yardage.
The Tanacom 750 holds around 230 yards of 20 lb monfilament fishing line. For braided line, it has a capacity of roughly 120 yards of 65 pound braided line. This gives anglers ample capacity for offshore trolling and fighting powerful fish.
The Tanacom 500 can hold approximately 200 yards of 20 lb monofilament line. For braided line, it can hold about 80 yards of 65 lb braid. This provides a versatile line capacity for handling both freshwater and inshore saltwater species.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to heavy-duty saltwater casting performance, the Daiwa Tanacom 500 and 750 live up to their reputation. Both reels deliver powerful drag systems, precision gearing, and the corrosion resistance needed for big game fishing.
While the 750 model offers slightly larger line capacity and more bearings, the 500 provides reliable performance at a more affordable price point. For most anglers’ needs, the Tanacom 500 hits the sweet spot of price and features.
But those pursuing giant offshore trophy fish may benefit from the extra muscle of the 750.
Whichever you choose, the Tanacom reels provide the quality construction and smooth refinement desired in a premium baitcasting reel. They are built to provide seasons of consistent performance and outlast cheaper competitors.
For serious anglers, the Tanacom 500 and 750 represent some of the toughest and most capable saltwater reels money can buy.
