Alvey float reels

[DexterCatt]

Hello readers, I'm thinking of trying some float fishing for fun, for Luderick and potentially other species. I see Alvey have two float reels, with the main difference being the sidecasting turntable mechanism (there's probably a better name). One model appears to have the traditional metal latching design, and the other model the easy-cast design, which is a spring loaded plastic affair with notched positions. Do any here have advice on choosing, either regarding durability and/or usability. 

Thanks and regards, DC. 

[Koalaboi]

Hi,

I’ve used lots of reels for blackfish in over 50 years of fishing for them: Avon Royals, A few different Alvey reels, threadlines, Shakespeare Eagle and others and have gone back to my very first centrepin: the humble Steelite and it is sensational. $20 at the local markets.

Threadlines don’t give you that direct feel for the fish, Alveys, if using the sidecast option, put too much twist in the line and are expensive. Avon Royals corrode and the Shakespeare has issues with the ratchet and corrosion.

Get yourself a Steelite and keep your eyes out for any others in the markets and you can have a spare for parts.

But really, any centrepin for blackfishing is a good option.

KB

Edited September 15, 2022 by Koalaboi

[Green Hornet]

The main difference between the 2 Alvey reels is that the metal backed, 47 Float is marginally heavier than the graphite backed 47GZ.

The little extra in weight doesn’t sound like much, but it is noticeable when holding a rod float fishing for a considerable amount of time.

Both reels have their pros and cons, though the graphite backed, easy cast GZ seems the more popular reel amongst blackfishermem.

[DexterCatt]

Thanks for the replies. So weight is an understandable consideration. Is the graphite Alvey heavier than say an old Steelite? Can the Alvey be cast as an ordinary centrepin, or is this a weight/inertia compromise?

[Green Hornet]

1 hour ago, DexterCatt said:

Thanks for the replies. So weight is an understandable consideration. Is the graphite Alvey heavier than say an old Steelite? Can the Alvey be cast as an ordinary centrepin, or is this a weight/inertia compromise?

The Alvey’s are considerably heavier than a Steelite overall, plus the spools are heavier as well making a traditional, centerpin style cast difficult.

Most guys that cast an Alvey ‘pin style use what’s called a Wallace cast (google it) and while its effective, I wouldn’t recommend it for a beginner.

I agree with Koalaboi that a Steelite is a better choice. There wouldn’t be too many blackfishermen using centerpins that didn’t cut their teeth using one.

[Koalaboi]

Hi,

The Steelite is very light and easy to use.They are fragile and will shatter if dropped on a hard surface.

If picking one up from the markets, make sure that the handles and spool turn freely without much lateral play or wobble when the spool turns. You should also check that the ratchet operates well.

I have loved going back to my first centrepin reel and am not likely buy any other blackfishing reels, in fact I probably won't even bother getting my other really expensive reels repaired. I have picked up a couple of other Steelites for spares and replacements if needed.

One of my oldest fishing mates is still using the same Steelite reel he had back in the 1970's and like me he fishes two or three times a week.

Tight lines,

KB

Edited September 16, 2022 by Koalaboi

[slothparade]

Probably a dumb idea as I don't know anything about alveys, but isnt there a specialised Alvey for luderick? I'd have thought that would be suited to float fishing? 

[Green Hornet]

16 hours ago, slothparade said:

Probably a dumb idea as I don't know anything about alveys, but isnt there a specialised Alvey for luderick? I'd have thought that would be suited to float fishing? 

The Float 47 and the Float 47GZ I mentioned in one of the above posts are the two luderick reels Alvey produce. Narrower spools than other Alveys, plus they run on ball bearings for a smooth line feed. 
They do the job, but there are better reels on the market IMO.

[DexterCatt]

20 hours ago, Koalaboi said:

If picking one up from the markets, make sure that the handles and spool turn freely without much lateral play or wobble when the spool turns. You should also check that the ratchet operates well.

Yes it's very unlikely to pick up a Steelite in near new condition., I imagine. With that in mind, by markets do you mean the kind of community  markets found in country towns where a fisho stall might be found between the local woodturner and the candle lady? Is there an equivalent in Sydney city.  I'm near enough to paddo markets in Sydney but can't recall seeing fishing gear. There's also a huge Vinnie's up tge road, perhaps I'll check there. Then there's online... 

[Green Hornet]

On 9/17/2022 at 9:42 AM, DexterCatt said:

Yes it's very unlikely to pick up a Steelite in near new condition., I imagine. With that in mind, by markets do you mean the kind of community  markets found in country towns where a fisho stall might be found between the local woodturner and the candle lady? Is there an equivalent in Sydney city.  I'm near enough to paddo markets in Sydney but can't recall seeing fishing gear. There's also a huge Vinnie's up tge road, perhaps I'll check there. Then there's online... 

You see them coming up for sale on eBay, marketplace, gumtree and some of the FB blackfish groups from time to time. Even see the odd unused one still in the box occasionally.

Edited September 17, 2022 by Green Hornet

[Little_Flatty]

14 minutes ago, DexterCatt said:

Yes it's very unlikely to pick up a Steelite in near new condition., I imagine. With that in mind, by markets do you mean the kind of community  markets found in country towns where a fisho stall might be found between the local woodturner and the candle lady? Is there an equivalent in Sydney city.  I'm near enough to paddo markets in Sydney but can't recall seeing fishing gear. There's also a huge Vinnie's up tge road, perhaps I'll check there. Then there's online... 

Years ago I came across a great selection of used Alveys and centrepins at the Gordon markets. I thought fifty bucks was too much for a couple of used (but usable) reels, so I passed them by. I have never seen a collection like that since. I’m still belting myself in the head over that…with my brand new alvey🤣

[DexterCatt]

7 minutes ago, Little_Flatty said:

Years ago I came across a great selection of used Alveys and centrepins at the Gordon markets. I thought fifty bucks was too much for a couple of used (but usable) reels, so I passed them by. I have never seen a collection like that since. I’m still belting myself in the head over that…with my brand new alvey🤣

...like the brand new in box Seamartin I saw in Lennox Head for $280 in 2005. What would I need that for I asked myself. Prices went ballistic about 5 years later. 

[Koalaboi]

I see them come up in the weekend markets near where I live at The Entrance and also at Toukley. FB marketplace, gumtree and eBay also. Getting one in good condition is not that hard but takes time. You just have to check them regularly.

I just checked Gumtree and there’s one for $15 pick up from Maroubra…there are others too.

KB

Edited September 17, 2022 by Koalaboi

[DexterCatt]

5 hours ago, Koalaboi said:

I see them come up in the weekend markets near where I live at The Entrance and also at Toukley. FB marketplace, gumtree and eBay also. Getting one in good condition is not that hard but takes time. You just have to check them regularly.

I just checked Gumtree and there’s one for $15 pick up from Maroubra…there are others too.

KB

Thanks KB, yes i saw that one at Maroubra also. Worth a look perhaps. I think the ad said minor repair, but hard to tell what from the pictures.

[Green Hornet]

You can often come across cheap Steelites at garage sales as well. Especially those of deceased estates.

[Ganguddy Goodoo]

Hey Guys,

Sorry to hijack your thread Dexter. I'm also hoping to start chasing Luderick. If one was going to purchase a more modern centrepin what would you recommend?

Cheers

GG

[Green Hornet]

11 hours ago, Ganguddy Goodoo said:

Hey Guys,

Sorry to hijack your thread Dexter. I'm also hoping to start chasing Luderick. If one was going to purchase a more modern centrepin what would you recommend?

Cheers

GG

The 2 reels I’d be looking at are either the Okuma Aventa which runs on bearings, or a Tempo which is a true centrepin design and a beautiful reel to fish with. Neither of these reels are cheap, but will last a lifetime if looked after.

The Tempos are made buy a guy on the NSW central coast and if you’re interested, I can message you his contact details.

Edited September 18, 2022 by Green Hornet

[Green Hornet]

This is a pic of a Tempo. Very similar in looks and design as an English, Avon Royal III or similar, but made from materials more suited to our harsh, saltwater environment.

[DexterCatt]

On 9/18/2022 at 6:56 AM, Koalaboi said:

I just checked Gumtree and there’s one for $15 pick up from Maroubra…there are others too.

Thanks again KB. I picked up that Steelite from Maroubra. The seller was a very experienced Luderick fisho. He took the time to show me some of his gear including some really little handmade centrepins, and an Iso rod. He mentioned that he fishes tournaments. A few minutes later after I'd left, he shared a document and slideshow that were a primer in Luderick fishing and float fishing in general.

The Interesting thing about the beginners guide was that it used a Luderick float rig, but was based on burleying and baiting with bread with the aim catching fish - luderick, bream, tarwhine, and others. So I presume its meant to get people catching fish as fuss free as possible.

What has struck me as I get back into fishing is the amount of good will there is in the fishing community. This place is a example, but also in the stores and today, a good bloke I met through Gumtree.

DC.

[Koalaboi]

Glad it worked out for you. $15 is a great price. Look after ot and you will be delighted with it. As you gain experience you may want to upgrade but for the moment, a great centrepin to learn with.

I have around 7 centrepin reels but the Steelite is my go to now. 

I do use an Alvey centrepin for fishing for flathead but the asteelite is my luderick reel.

Tight lines,

KB