What ever size you think you want go a size lower... this reel runs a little big. But real smooth and powerful

Very solid drive train, silky smooth drag on big fish (30 lb + stripper), a very confident feel under load and holds a load of 25 pound braid. Time will tell the durability of this reel but after about forty hours of hard use it still preforms like the day it came out of the box.
This is a large reel for a 5000 so buy accordingly.

I use this reel with 100lb brains and a 15ft rod and it is by far my favorite casting set up for land based shark fishing. High quality reel with impressive drag at a great price.

Got the 3000 and 6500 versions. Very smooth drag and retrieve. The 6500 is a bit on the heavy side for my noodle arms. Was able to get trough an entire day of cliff fishing in Hawaii without any problems.

Bought a 4000 & 5000 for my first trip to the beach for some surf action. Love these reels! Super smooth at this price point. After that trip I grabbed another 4000 and they are now my dedicated catfish reels. Would pick up a few more, but it looks like they aren't making them any more?! Hopefully Daiwa's replacement is just as good... BIG shoes to fill!

Very nice reel considering the cost. I would buy again.

I have only used this reel once and was pleasantly surprised at the balance and workmanship of this reel. Great budget reel for the average fisherman. Feels like a more expensive reel.
4 star rating is due to just using once. I would buy again. No

A good reel, I mainly use it for backwater stripers throwing bucktails and lures, Had mine 3 weeks, fished hard and no issues, Time will tell,

love the smooth retrieve on this reel that I bought a second one. Cast long with the right bait. Highly recommend on the mid level reel

I have this reel on an 11ft surf rod and it is awesome! Just Rinse it of gently with fresh water after each use and it's just like new every time. The 6500 is like an 8000 size and has the drag strength as well. You will want to put some 30lbs mono on first to fill the reel some this thing holds a pile of 50lbs braid.

One of the best reels for surf fishing..
Handled a 5 ft shark with ease.

Great reel, very smooooth and quiet and very durable. Kudos to Daiwa!

Been using the BGs for a long time. Paired with my Daiwa NorthCoast 8’6” makes a perfect salt water setup and salmon fishing setup. With minimum maintenence this reel will go forever.

I personally think this is the best reel at this price point because it offers tremendous cranking power and I own a 3000 and 4000. While the 4000 is more powerful, it sees the lions share of my heavy inshore action, but it lasted about 1.5 months before needing a $70 repair for a broken gear related piece. A reputable outfitter informed me that I should expect it again due to an inferior (flimsy and weak) part that is essential for a smooth retrieve. Great for the price, but after paying for the repair you might as well go for the next price point.

This is a very good reel for 9 to 11 feets roods. Smooze work, no issues with parts, easy to switch right to left sides. Very durable in salt water environment.