The Pflueger President Spinning Reel is well-constructed and has better performance than many of the high-end reel models on the market. While this model is a go-to option for many anglers, Pflueger doesn’t do a great job detailing the differences between sizes. This review compares the Pfleger 25 vs 30 spinning reels.
For the money, it’s hard to beat the Pflueger President. With a stainless-steel body, smooth reeling action, and durable components, this spinning reel offers exceptional value. The 25 and 30 sizes are both versatile but are better for different fishing situations.
Pflueger President 25 vs 30 – Sizes Compared
| Features | President 25 | President 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Check Amazon | Check Amazon |
| Weight | 7.5 oz | 8.3 oz |
| Max Drag | 8 lbs | 10 lbs |
| Mono Capacity (yd/lb) | 220/2, 110/4, 90/6 | 255/4, 145/6, 130/8 |
| Braid Capacity (yd/lb) | 200/4, 140/6, 110/8 | 275/6, 190/8, 160/10 |
| Retrieve Rate | 22.4″ | 25.3″ |
| Ball Bearings | 10 | 10 |
| Gear Ratio | 5.2:1 | 5.2:1 |
Key Differences between Pflueger President 25 and 30
The key differences between the two spinning reel sizes are line capacity, weight, line pairing, and sensitivity. We break down the differences below.
Line Capacity Compared
The Pflueger President spinning reel series features a slow-oscillation gearing system that greatly improves line lay by minimizing line twisting. This means the President series can fit more line than other reels with the same spool size.
The size 30 president reel has considerably more line capacity than the size 25 model. The Pflueger President 30 can hold 145 yards of 6lb test line, and 130 yards of 8lb test line. This is more than the size 25 reel which only holds 110 yards of 6lb test line, and 90 yards of 6lb test line.
Line capacity is one of the most significant differences between the two spinning reel sizes. If you’re seeking a farther casting distance and frequently fight big fish that spool your reels, the 30 size offers better performance. However, if you’re building a lightweight setup and need increased sensitivity, the size 25 reel offers plenty of line capacity for most anglers.
Reel Weight
Another key difference between the Pflueger President 25 and 30 is weight. The size 25 President reel weighs 10% less than the size 30 reel. While this may seem like a small difference, it’s an important consideration for anglers pairing the Pflueger President with a specific rod.
When it comes to weight, the most important consideration is how the reel will balance on your rod. A heavy reel on a lightweight spinning rod will throw it out of balance, and reduce casting distance and comfort. The President 25 size reel is ideal for lightweight rods that have a slimmer profile.
Line Lb Test
When deciding between reel sizes, consider the type and weight of the fishing line you’ll be using. The Pflueger President features a braid-ready spool that allows braid to be tied directly to the spool itself.
6 to 8lb fishing line gives the size 30 President reel the best performance, while the size 25 reel is best paired with 5lb to 6lb line. This makes the Pflueger President 25 better for finesse applications and the 30 size best for larger baits and bigger fish.
Sensitivity
All sizes of the Pflueger President series are incredibly sensitive with smooth reeling. Pflueger uses 10 stainless steel and corrosion-resistant ball bearings in the 25 and 30 reel sizes. This makes the reeling silky smooth, and overall very satisfying to use.
The Pflueger President reel also features a lightweight graphite body and rotor construction, and sealed drag washers that stay lubricated and smooth. Overall, these reels are sensitive enough that both sizes can be used for technical finesse fishing. The size 30 reel has more versatility, so if you’re not dedicating this reel to a finesse setup, it’s likely the best option.
Best uses for size 25 Pflueger President Spinning Reel
The size 25 Pflueger President is a handy size for a spinning reel. It’s not quite a full-sized bass fishing reel, but it’s also not ultra-light. Even though the size 30 reel has the technical advantages of increased casting distance, accuracy, and line capacity, the 25 is perfect for recreational fishing.
For many anglers, these disadvantages are outweighed by the advantages. The size 25 reel is lighter, and the line capacity is easier to manage. This reel is ideal for targeting bass smaller than 5 pounds, and we all know it’s more fun to fight fish on sensitive tackle.
Size 25 Reel Qualities
Another great use for the size 25 Pflueger President is walleye ice fishing. The added sensitivity makes it easier to feel the finicky bites from these fish. Walleye also aren’t known to fight as hard as bass, so they don’t require heavy-duty gear.
This spinning reel has more than enough drag power to handle medium-sized fish, and the 10 ball bearings make it one of the smoothest and most dynamic reels to fish.
Best uses for size 30 Pflueger President Spinning Reel
It’s generally known that 30-size reels are the most ideal for bass fishing. They offer tons of versatility and have plenty of power in case you come across a PB fish. The size 30 Pflueger President Spinning Reel is best with 6lb, 8lb, and even 10lb braided lines. It casts exceptionally well and is likely to become your favorite spinning setup in your arsenal.
Whether you want to fish drop shot rigs, ChatterBaits, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, or crankbaits, this reel will do it all. There’s not much you can’t do with a 30 size reel, which makes it ideal for anglers who want to try new techniques, and don’t want to be limited by their equipment.
Size 30 Reel Qualities
Some anglers even prefer the size 30 Pflueger President reel for finesse fishing. The larger spinning reel casts farther and with more accuracy than the 25 size. I’ve found the size 30 reel does a better job eliminating loops and preventing wind knots as well.
This reel also has the technical advantages that come with a larger profile, such as strength, line capacity, and casting performance. If you fish with a fluorocarbon line these benefits are even greater, and the size 30 reel is the best option. These benefits are especially true when fishing with fluorocarbon line.
Lastly, I’ve found the size 30 Pflueger President reel pairs best with the 7’1″ St Croix Mojo Bass Rod, and the 7′ Medium Fenwick HMG Spinning Rod.
Conclusion
When deciding on the best reel size, there are a few important considerations. Make sure you know your preferred line weight and think about line capacity, weight, and the rod you’ll be pairing with the reel.
The Pflueger President 25 and 30 size spinning reels are a ton of fun and offer an affordable way to fish tournament-quality equipment. You should select the size that’s ideal for your style of fishing, and the one you think you’ll get the most enjoyment from. Overall, either reel size will catch fish, and it’s best to spend your money on something you’ll love fishing with!
Related Comparisons
