The Daiwa Exceler has been one of the most popular reels from Daiwa for many years. It combines quality, functionality and price well. At the moment, the Daiwa catalog presents five Exceler model series, or rather, the Daiwa Exceler X, Z, S, E, Plus series. If we consider all the Exceler reels, they are considered budget reels, but they are the best budget reels.
We created this review based on reviews from fishermen, and most of them note its good spooling and average service life of the reel. Those who use light tackle note a longer service life, unlike those who fish with heavy bait.
Among the most common problems, fishermen note the following: the appearance of axial play, frequent dropping of loops, problems with the line guide, and the appearance of noise under load. But know that all of these problems can occur in any reel.
Let us repeat that the Exceler is a good budget reel and you shouldn’t expect much from it. If you use the reel once a week, fishing for 3-4 hours, then the reel can last quite a long time, the main thing is not to overload it, do not drop it, keep it clean and periodically carry out maintenance.
Daiwa Exceler-S
A budget reel suitable for light and medium spinning rods in fresh water.
Specifications:
- ABS II system
- GyroSpin system
- Roller Twist Buster II
- 4 ball bearings
- Aluminum spool
- Spare aluminum spool
- DigiGear II drive system
- Aluminum folding handle
- Cast coil and rotor housing
- Levelwind line laying system
- Instant reverse brake
Model range: Daiwa Exceler 1500 S, 2500 S, 3000 S.
Coil models
The Daiwa Exceler LT series of reels went on sale in 2021 and quickly gained popularity among fans of professional fishing.
Daiwa exceler lt belongs to the inertia-free type and is in the series along with other models: Legalis and Fuego. The coils of this series do not have any special technical differences between themselves.
• Legalis handle is tightened with a nut;
• Exceler – screwed into the main pair;
• The Fuego reel is equipped with an additional bearing and is characterized by MAGSEALED technology, due to which the product acquires enhanced moisture resistance and protection from dirt and dust.
• Visually, the reels are quite miniature and similar in size to a series from another manufacturer - Shimano. Daiwa exceler lt series reels are made of DS 5 material - Carbon Light Material Housing, which in terms of characteristics is between graphite and zylon (top polymer).
Models from the famous manufacturer Shimano are made of similar material. The weight of the Diva Exceller LT reel is 205 g, which makes you think about the short period of its use.
Basic systems characteristic of all three models:
• brake system;
• reverse stopper;
• winding system;
• smooth running system.
Exceler X(2011)
Lightweight version of the Daiwa Exceler S reel
| Model | Reduction | Weight(gram) | Bearings | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 1000 | 4.7 | 220 | 4+1 | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 1500 | 4.7 | 220 | 4+1 | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 2500 | 4.7 | 260 | 4+1 | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 3000 | 4.7 | 285 | 4+1 | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 3500 | 4.9 | 360 | 4+1 | |
| Daiwa Exceler X 4000 | 4.9 | 360 | 4+1 |
Reviews from fishermen
What do fishermen say about Daiwa Exceler reels? Reviews from people give an accurate description of the product and help to form a clear picture of it. This is what they write.
Vitaly, Moscow. Not a bad thing. What you need for catching perch in our Kostroma River. Before ordering, I studied the technical specifications on the Internet and chose the 2000, exactly for my rod. The combination turned out to be perfect. With such a tool you get pleasure even when there is no bite at all, just from the work of the tackle.
Sergey, Kirov. Yes, the Japanese have not forgotten how to do good things! Thank God they don’t follow the example of their narrow-eyed Chinese brothers. The reel is fire, it doesn’t reel, but sings. And he sings barely audibly. All components work properly, everything rotates, the cord is laid evenly, the drag can be adjusted to suit any fish, even a ruff. But most importantly - no beards! Previously, I had to buy braid almost after every fishing trip, but now I don’t remember when I went to a fishing store. In general, the savings are obvious.
Vladimir, St. Petersburg. The Daiwa Exceler reel will soon be called a folk reel, it’s only a matter of time. When the general public learns about its existence, the manufacturer will have to launch an additional production line. Neither Shimano, nor Salmo, nor Mikado have such a price-quality ratio. Not a single popular brand can boast of a product of such high quality at such a low cost. Bravo, Daiwa!
Daiwa Exceler-Z (2011)
Universal power coil. Initially created for the European market.
Peculiarities:
- 7 ball bearings + 1 roller bearing
- Machined aluminum handle
- Machined aluminum spool
- DIGIGEAR II Gears
- Hollow AIR BALL
- Spare spool
| Model | Reduction | Bearings | Weight | Forestry capacity |
| Daiwa Exceler 2500 Z | 4.7:1 | 8 | 255 | 0,25/190 |
| Daiwa Exceler 3000 Z | 4.7:1 | 8 | 275 | 0,30/185 |
| Daiwa Exceler Z 4000 | 4.9:1 | 8 | 360 | 10LB/270 |
Review
Another old-timer among Daiwa fishing reels on the Russian market with a long pedigree and numerous modifications. Over the years since the creation of the Exceler series, it has acquired more and more diverse features and qualities, but only its main credo has remained unchanged - to be a real hard worker of harsh fishing everyday life, regardless of the conditions and fishing objects. A kind of connecting link between middle and budget class models. A strong “middle peasant” and a real “workhorse” with an emphasis on pragmatic functionality. This is not surprising, since this model was purposefully developed by Daiwa engineers for foreign markets - primarily Europe and America - based on the most typical features of fishing in these parts of the world and taking into account the financial qualifications of the average fisherman. The result is a predictable and reliable fishing tool with an excellent combination of price and quality.
The restrained, ascetic design in soothing colors somewhat dilutes the futuristic Air Rotor - a nod from Japanese developers towards expanding the use of the latest technologies in a number of budget lines of reels. Otherwise, there is a standard “gentlemanly” set of attributes from Daiwa: a durable HardBody-Z aluminum body, which is very good for a reel of this level in the age of the craze for plastic materials; 4 ball bearings + 1 roller bearing; all-metal handle and aluminum perforated spool. And of course, the smoothly adjustable UTD clutch and the characteristic Dive velvety stroke as the final touch. And the spare aluminum spool included makes the Exceler EA a true all-rounder.
Read: 3 best budget spinning reels
Daiwa 14 Exceler (2014)
The new 2014 Daiwa Exceler has become even more advanced. The new rotor installed has become much lighter, which has reduced inertia, stopping and rotating the rotor have become smoother and easier.
That is, the overall sensitivity and stroke of the coil has improved. With previous Exceler models, fishermen noted that over time noise appeared and the stroke became less velvety, but in the 14 series the velvety stroke remains the same throughout the entire life of the reel.
A powerful main pair and an aluminum body make the reel even more durable. The tapered spool promotes long casting, and the improved line guide roller and cross-winding virtually eliminate loop drops and line twisting.
Daiwa 14 Exceler small sizes are perfect for light spinning rods, and sizes 2500 and 3000 go well with medium-weight rods.
| Model | Reduction | Weight | Load | Bearings | winding/revolution | |
| Daiwa 14 Exceler 2004 | 4.8 | 235 | 2 kg | 4+1 | 64 cm | |
| Daiwa 14 Exceler 2500 | 4.8 | 265 | 4 kg | 4+1 | 72 cm | |
| Daiwa 14 Exceler 2506 | 4.8 | 255 | 2.5 kg | 4+1 | 72cm | |
| Daiwa 14 Exceler 3000 | 4.7 | 310 | 6 kg | 4+1 | 79 cm |
Daiwa Exceler LT 17 - Review and reviews of the spinning reel
The Daiwa Exceler LT series is characterized by a quiet and soft ride, as well as light weight. The new LT concept provides even better protection for the internal mechanism, optimizes the reel's braking force and makes it even more powerful.
The new pinion design allows for a higher gear ratio, significantly extending reel life, while the ADT clutch system ensures even braking force for optimal performance.
Clutch power: 1000/2000: 4.0 kg, 2500/3000: 10.0 kg, 4000/6000: 12.0 kg. The cam shape of the size 6000 reel has been specially designed to withstand heavy loads - ideal for light jigging as well as feeder fishing.
LT (Light & Tough) DS5 reel body 5 ball bearings AIR ROTOR® TOUGH DIGIGEAR® ATD™ drag system Infinite Anti-Reverse® Cross Wrap™ line guide Silent rotation Aluminum hollow spool Milled aluminum handle AIR BAIL® Anti-twist roller Twist Buster® II The Exceler LT model range is represented by seven coils: 1000D, 2000D, 2500D, 3000-CXH, 3000D-C, 4000D-C, 6000D-H.
Well, I took this reel in the size Daiwa Exceler 17 LT 2000D. There is only one minus - the knob is loose - this is the minus with which it is difficult to live, for me it is so unrealistic. Everything is fine, but you shake it and the knob gets loose - grand minus! Backing? Not smooth. It would be better to take the fuegu. As always, the toad was strangling (Well, I took this reel.
There is only one minus - the knob is loose - this is the minus with which it is difficult to live, for me it is so unrealistic. Everything is fine, but you shake it and the knob gets loose - grand minus! Backing? Not smooth. It would be better if Daiwa Fuego took a collapsible knob there. As always, the toad was strangling(
Advantages: design, weight Disadvantages: backlash
Well, what can I say about the reel, I didn’t see any difference between the revros and this one except for the weight! In general, the reel is beautiful with the correct spool, but the play of the main pair is the same as in budget reels. The only significant advantage of the Daiwa Exceler 17 LT is its weight!
And also in the Daiwa Exceler 17 LT size 3000 it is the same size of the Daiva Revros (Daiwa Ninja) 2500 spool. By the way, the side of the spool is pressed and not solid, and a rather sharp edge can damage the fence.
Every year fishing gear becomes more refined, lighter, thinner. In 2021, Daiwa launched the updated LT series of reels. Reels in this series had a significant reduction in weight while maximizing the strength of the body.
The Daiwa Exceler-17 LT 3000 reel is one of the representatives of this series. The very concept of LT technology (Light&Tough - light and rigid) is aimed at reducing weight and size, while increasing the strength of the reel itself and maintaining the line capacity of the spool.
The Daiva Exceller LT reel is supplied in a cardboard box, on the side cover of which is an explosion diagram of this product. All contents are packed in a plastic bag. We also receive an information brochure, a separate reel handle and a set of three additional washers that can be used to change the winding of the line/cord on the spool. Please note right away: the kit does not include a spare spool and there is no case for transporting the reel, so purchase these things yourself (if necessary).
When I opened the box, I thought that the entire coil was covered in grease. The reason for this is the unusual case made of composite material DS-5. The composite material has high strength with low weight. In addition, the coil body literally sparkles - it looks quite interesting.
Designed to reduce the weight of the product and the hollow rotor. The gear ratio is 5.3:1; for one revolution of the reel, 80 cm of fishing line is wound onto the spool. Number of bearings: 5 pcs., medium/light reel class.
The handle of the Daiwa Exceler 17 LT 3000D-C reel is made of aluminum. Has a T-shaped knob covered with rubber. The knob has a slight play in the horizontal plane. The handle is attached to the reel by screwing it clockwise. It is possible to rearrange it to suit any hand. On the opposite side there is a decorative plug.
The spool is a work of art. Made of aluminum, has perforations on the skirt. It’s smooth, so you don’t have to worry about the cord fraying or the fishing line rubbing against it. Has a plastic rectangular clip for attaching fishing line. Holds 150 meters of 0.33 mm fishing line. It’s a shame that the kit doesn’t include a spare, even a plastic, spool. This would make winding the backing cord easier. The diameter of the front side of the spool is 48 mm. It is made in two stages, which provides additional casting range. The cord with a diameter of 0.14 fits very well. It is worth noting that with the additional washers that come with the kit, you can change the winding: make it even or change it to a straight/reverse cone. The winding is smooth, without depressions or interruptions.
Friction brake of the Exceler-17 LT 3000 reel is front, with a maximum load of 10 kg. It delivers the line very smoothly and compensates for jerks perfectly. The brake discs are protected from dirt and moisture by a gasket.
The reverse flag is located behind the reel, at its bottom. The flag does not “stick” in transitional positions and stands clearly at the extreme points. The reverse stopper (Infinite Anti-Reverse) is activated immediately, preventing movement in the reverse direction.
The line guide bail (AirBail) is hollow and lightweight. The line roller (Twist Buster II) is smooth, reduces line friction and prevents line twisting.
And briefly about the main thing. The stated weight of the reel is 215 grams, my scales showed 1 gram less. The stroke of the coil is smooth and quiet, which gives it slow oscillation (Silent Oscillation). The cord, as described above, is laid very evenly and tightly. The loops do not come off, the cord does not twist. I didn’t detect any backlash, except for a slight oscillation of the knob in the horizontal plane (I didn’t see any coils that it didn’t exist). The friction is beyond praise.
Overall I am very pleased with the new Daiwa Exceler 17 LT 3000D-C reel. This season this reel is my favorite. And then we'll see. I think Daiwa will not stop there.
Pros: great design, light weight
Disadvantages: backlash, price could be lower
Well, what can I say about the Daiva Exceler Lt reel, I didn’t see any difference between the revros and this one except for the weight! In general, the reel is beautiful with the correct spool, but the play of the main pair is the same as in budget reels. its only plus is its weight!
And also in the size Daiwa Exceler LT 3000D-C - one-to-one spool Daiwa Revros E, Revros MX, Ninja - 2500 - spool diameter 48mm. By the way, the side of the spool is pressed and not solid, and a rather sharp edge can damage the fence.
The case of the 2500 and 3000 models is absolutely identical, the dimensions are the same.
The braid must be wound strictly under the first side of the spool. Unknowingly (I didn’t use Shimanov’s) I wound the fence under the second one out of habit like the rest of the Dives, as a result, 20 meters of varivas milk went into my beard.
Read other articles, reviews and testimonials:
- Review of the Allux Pride Feeder Master reel. Reviews from fishermen about the Allux Pride Feeder Master reel
- Shimano Exage - Review and reviews of the spinning reel
- Correct winding of braided fishing line on a spinning reel.
- Shimano Technium - Review and reviews of the spinning reel
- Daiwa Ballistic - Review and reviews of the spinning reel
Reviews of Daiwa Exceler reels
Review 1. I have an Exceler Z 2500, I bought it three years ago for 4,500 rubles. She died in a little more than a year. The rotor began to spin. I looked at the reason and it turned out that part No. 13 had burst. I also have a Daiwa Freams Kix, which was purchased earlier, and still works on the same scales. The metal on the Exceler Z spool is very soft, any impact on the side of the spool is reflected immediately. I think this reel is not worth the money.
Review 2. Exceler Z. I fished with it for two seasons, there was a lot of play on the axis and rotor, it looks like the life of the reel is almost exhausted. I used it carefully, caught with light wobblers up to 10 grams, and with a jig no more than 14 grams.
Review 3. Exceler Z. I bought it a long time ago at a price of 4,700 rubles, and this is the price it should have. I fished infrequently, used weights up to 10 grams, there were no complaints, but then the roller in the line layer stopped, play appeared in the transition from the top position to the downward movement, and there was play in the rod and on the rotor.
Review 4. The clarity of the clutch has disappeared, it is either too heavy or too soft. I haven't been in sand or water. Transported in a case and used carefully. I took it apart to look - the wear on the gears is minimal, there is enough lubrication.
Review 5. Another year of using Exceler Z has passed, everything works great. I didn’t have any looseness, it doesn’t make noise, the styling is good. I took it in for maintenance, no problems were found, the mechanism was washed and lubricated with new lubricant. I use this reel for twitching minnows.
Review 6. Exceler Z. The line roller does not rotate. I had to remove the bushing and install the bearing. The instructions say 7+1 bearings, where are they located even if there is no bearing in the roller?
Review 7. Daiwa Exceler-S 1500. I use it for mikruhu. A little heavy, but works well. I recommend.
Review 8. Daiwa Exceler-S. I liked the reel because it is the first normal one I have, before this I had a Cobra, with the Favorite Absolute 732ML spinning rod the balance is very cool. Small, metal, shakes perfectly.
Review 9. Exceler-X. You need to wind the cord at least 3 mm from the edge, otherwise the loops will fall off. The winding profile requires adjustment, reminiscent of the Mitchell Mag Premiere reel.
Review 10. Exceler Plus. The main advantage is impeccable styling. Smoothly and neatly, I didn’t observe any dropping of the loops, the clutch nut was recessed. Cons: Noisy, growls, weak roller and return.
Review 11. I’ve been fishing with Exceler 3000E for two years, using it mainly for twitching. Satisfied in all respects. I use a thick 0.15mm cord, the installation is good.
Review 12. Exceler Plus. I think this is the best price/quality ratio. The play in the handle was easily corrected with a plastic washer.
Review 13. My Exceler 2500 has been used for two seasons, no problems. I fish with a jig from 26 to 36 grams. The largest fish caught on this reel is a 5.5 kg pike.
Review 14. Exceler 2000, axial play of the handle, frequent release of the bow, otherwise satisfied.
Review 15. The reel is excellent, I’ve been using it for three years now, no complaints. I've been in the water for about an hour, but it still works.
Review 16. I have Exceler plus 2500. I use it for three seasons. After two seasons, noises appeared. Found there was a lack of lubrication. I changed the lubricant and it worked well for one season. I catch it 10 times a season. So far I’m satisfied. I give the coil 4 points because under load an unpleasant knocking noise appears. I'm not going to change it yet.
Review 17. I have a Daiwa Exceler 2500. I bought it last year and immediately had a problem: with a light load there was a knock, and the handle did not always close completely. I exchanged it for another one, but this one lost its reverse stop during the season.
If you want to understand the topic of spinning reels in more detail, we recommend our article - link.
We also recommend reading reviews/feedback on the following reels:
- Daiwa Luvias review and reviews
- Daiwa Certificate
- Daiwa laguna
- Daiwa Sweepfire
- Daiwa Revros
- Daiwa Crossfire
- Daiwa Freams
- Daiwa Exist
- Daiwa Caldia
- Daiwa Crest
- Shimano Biomaster FB
Author of the article: Vitaly Leonidovich Ivanov, 2021.
Daiwa Exceler LT reel - description
The company’s specialists managed to make the reel lighter thanks to modern innovative materials. They abandoned various “space alloys” and used durable and reliable carbon fiber DS5 reel body. The body turned out to be so light that now you have to match the rod to the reel, and not vice versa.
Exceler models are presented in several standard sizes - from 1000 to 6000; the most popular over two seasons were the universal ones: 2000, 2500, 3000. In addition, it is possible to select the reel speed for specific fishing conditions. The manufacturer offers two options: standard reduction – 5.2:1 and increased – from 5.7:1 to 6.2:1. With such a set, the geography of application of Exceler LT spinning rods simply has no boundaries; they can be used not only by spinning anglers, but also by fans of feeder or match fishing.
Models from the Exceler series differ from many analogues in their soft, almost silent running. Their internal parts are reliably protected from water, sand and dirt. The redesigned main pair increases the service life of the mechanism, and the solid aluminum handle increases sensitivity and prevents backlash. It screws in on both sides, which until recently was fantastic on Daiwa products at this price point. Nice bonus!
Everything is great with laying the fishing line or cord. The spool is shaped like a reverse cone, just like a good reel should be. The bow of the line guide is hollow, it gives a completely different tactile sensation. Compared to the standard one, working with this one is much more comfortable. Anglers also note that the Japanese Exceler reel never drops loops. Of course, in crooked hands such a nuisance can happen, but with proper handling, the line always lies evenly on the spool and comes off it correctly when casting.
