Now when it comes to fishing reels I would have to say that the Abu Garcia® Cardinal C503 ALB can’t be beat.  I have got one and would have to say it is the nicest reel I have ever owned.

Abu Garcia® Cardinal C503ALB Wins Outdoor Life “Editor’s Choice” Award

An edition of Outdoor Life magazine was  released, featuring its annual “Editor’s Choice and Best Buy” awards. Of all the spinning reels tested, the Abu Garcia Cardinal C503ALB was given the prestigious “Editor’s Choice” Award as the editor’s top spinning reel, outperforming Quantum, Shimano and Shakespeare, among many other manufacturers. In addition, the Abu Garcia Cardinal C3 was given an honorable mention in the spinning reel category.

According to the magazine’s editors, “with its all-aluminum body and spool and machine-aluminum handle, the [ALB] reel resembles an armored Humvee, but instead of being boxlike in shape, it’s sleek, silvery and understated. The bail is heavy-duty and open with a satisfying stay-open click. Your grip won’t slip when the soft-handle knob is wet or fish slimed. With its 10 ball bearings and high-quality gears, the reel is buttery smooth. A dandy for any freshwater casting work and also light saltwater, although with a larger line capacity it would handle far more serious marine work.”