Daiwa BG MQ 5000 VS Saltist MQ 5000 Reel

When choosing between the Daiwa BG MQ 5000 and the Saltist MQ 5000 for heavy inshore fishing, both are solid options, but your decision should depend on your specific fishing conditions and priorities. 

They have about 130 dollars price difference. ($199 Vs $329). Are the extra features worth the money?

Daiwa BG MQ 5000:

• Build: Features an aluminum body with Daiwa's Monocoque (MQ) design, offering a strong, compact, and corrosion-resistant frame.
• Sealing: Equipped with nine rubber seals, providing solid protection against water and contaminants. While not as advanced as Magseal, it is sufficient for most inshore and nearshore applications.
• Drag System: Offers a robust 22-pound drag capacity, capable of handling larger inshore fish like snook, tarpon, and redfish.
• Affordability: More budget-friendly than the Saltist MQ, making it a great choice for anglers who don't need the added protection of Magseal.

Daiwa Saltist MQ 5000:

• Build: Combines a lightweight Zaion rotor with an aluminum unibody, giving it excellent durability without added weight.
• Sealing: Features Daiwa's Magseal technology, utilizing a ferrofluid barrier to protect the anti-reverse clutch and other internal components. This makes it highly resistant to saltwater intrusion and corrosion.
• Drag System: Matches the BG MQ with a 22-pound drag, but offers a smoother, more sealed operation.
• Premium Touch: Comes with a more refined feel and an Aluminum Round Knob (ARK) handle for better grip during hard fights.

If You’re Not Deep Sea Fishing:

For heavy inshore fishing—targeting big fish near structures like bridges, harbors, or jetties—the Daiwa BG MQ 5000 is more than capable. Its sealing is sufficient to withstand common saltwater exposure and the splashes you’d typically encounter. It’s a durable reel with excellent value for inshore and light offshore scenarios.

If You Plan to Fish Offshore or in Deep Sea Conditions:

If you’re heading offshore on a boat, especially where waves and salt spray are constant, the Saltist MQ 5000 is the better option. The Magseal technology offers superior protection against deep sea saltwater corrosion, ensuring your reel maintains peak performance over time. Its advanced sealing can withstand harsher environments, where the BG MQ might eventually let contaminants in.

Verdict:

• If your fishing is primarily inshore or nearshore and you want to save some money, the BG MQ 5000 is an excellent choice that gets the job done.
• If you occasionally or frequently go deep-sea fishing or are concerned about long-term durability in harsher conditions, investing in the Saltist MQ 5000 is worth the extra cost.

Both reels are fantastic for pulling big fish out of tough structure, but understanding your fishing environment will help you make the right choice!

Users read this usually bought

Decent DC Reel, only $134

Best Trout Rods