Daiwa’s TDR reel is legendary in the match fishing scene, take a look around any fishing venue and no doubt you will spy the iconic blue livery of the Daiwa TDR. Launched 20 years ago, we have seen an evolution of the reel, whilst still maintaining its superb performance and eye-catching looks.
A premium reel that commands a hefty price tag, it’s packed with the best features Daiwa has at its disposal, as such this reel has become synonymous with reliability.
The latest model of the TDR, the 24 TDR introduces some new technology in ‘Airdrive’, an improvement in some of the core components increasing lightness and smoothness without compromising on strength. This reel actually comes in up to 25g lighter than the predecessor.
The 24 TDR also now features a bolt on foldable handle this increases the power transmission from the handle as the previous handle had a spindle that went through the body, this could be prone to flex under loading.
Featuring an evolution of technologies like ‘Digigear II’ and ‘Twistbuster 3’, ever enhancing the reels capability and performance.
Available in a choice of single and double handled models in the 2508 and 3012 options, whilst the 4012 only has the single handled option.
Verdict
I personally, am a huge fan of these reels and have owned, used and abused every model and generation of this reel. From the 2508 for float and pellet waggler fishing, the 3012 is my go-to reel for all larger waggler, feeder and method feeder work and finally the 4012 makes an appearance for larger feeder work up to 50m. Any further than that I use its big brother the TDR distance.
Throw in the high impact line clip and my personal favourite feature the QD quick drag system and you have a recipe for success. I can honestly say in the years I have used TDR reels; they have never let me down.
If you prefer to rely on the drag system and don’t backwind, once you have the drag dialled in, breakages become a thing of the past as the accuracy of the ‘QD’ drag system gives line smoothly as and when its critical, virtually eradicating breakages and significantly reducing hook pulls under the rod tip, helping you to land every fish you hook.
If you're in the market for a capable, high performance reel that looks as good as it performs then you need look no further than the Daiwa 24 TDR, it's pedigree speaks for itself.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT AND OTHERS FROM DAIWA HERE.
Tech Spec
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Airdrive design
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Airdrive bail (Hollow)
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Airdrive rotor (Zaion v)
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Aluminium body
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Screw on 'one-touch' folding handle
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QD Quick Drag
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LC-abs spool (Long Cast)
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Hip line clip
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Infinite anti-reverse
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Digi-gear II
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Twistbuster 3
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Cross wrap
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Spare spool supplied
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Sizes 2508, 3012 & 4012
The one touch folding handle makes it easy to store in situ on rods made up offering efficiency and convenience.
Quick Drag (QD) is smooth and accurate, helping reduce line breaks and hook pulls.
These latest models offer a step forward in reel technology, making the reel lighter, more powerful than its predecessors. It’s the only choice for some of the UK’s finest anglers.
Available in 3 sizes (2508, 3012, & 4012). 2508 & 3012 available it double handles.
Pros
- Advanced features, Quick Drag, High Impact line clip (HIP) and spare spool
- Iconic blue livery
Cons
- Because of its size and design may not be the best choice for light or finesse fishing
| Airdrive design | |
| Airdrive bail (Hollow) | |
| Airdrive rotor (Zaion v) | Twistbuster 3 |
| Aluminium body | Cross wrap |
| Screw on 'one-touch' folding handle | Spare spool supplied |
| QD Quick Drag | Sizes 2508, 3012, 4012 |
| LC-abs spool (Long Cast) | |
| HIP line clip | |
| Infinite anti-reverse | |
| Digigear ii |
Our pick of the alternatives
The Daiwa 20 Tournament is the pinnacle of Daiwa’s engineering, and it delivers exceptional performance, versatility and durability, it will be a worthwhile investment for any serious match angler.
Available in 3 sizes (2506, 3010, & 4010). 2506 & 3010 available it double handles.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Supplied with 2 spare spools
Cons
- Primarily designed for match anglers, may not be the best choice for other anglers
Best Fishing Reel (2024 National Angling Awards)
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Matrix has concentrated on the features that are most important for UK anglers, including the distance of the spool from the rod, allowing for precise finger dab casting action and instant access to the anti-reverse switch.
Featuring an ultra-light magnesium body, carbon-reinforced rotor, CNC aluminium drive gear, triple sealed body, line-friendly clip, multi-disc precision front drag, and a sleek one-piece bail-arm, they are available in 3000 and 4000 sizes. Designed specifically for UK match and coarse anglers in 3000 and 4000 sizes.
Pros
- Screw-in handle has zero wobble and makes storage easy
- Immaculate line lay straight out of the box
Cons
- Be careful not to overfill if spooling up with braid due to the taper-free spool lip
| 10 + 1 ball bearings | |
| 5:1:1 gear ratio | |
| Ultra lightweight magnesium body | |
| Carbon reinforced rotor | |
| Multi-disc drag system | |
| Easy reach spool | |
| Line capacity: 3000, 150m 0.22mm | 4000, 150m 0.24mm | |
| weight: 291g | |
| 79cm and 86cm retrieval rate per turn |
Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of commercial content writer at Angling Times.