Revo
Rocket
10 baitcaster – the 2nd generation Revo Rocket
By Christopher S.G. Tan
As it is based on the newer Revo Gen 4 frame there are changes to the reel.
It has a “gull-wing” side-plate designed for quick access the the centrifugal brakes, an improved clutch system that feels more positive, and a different pinion gear and shaft system which is stronger. The line guide is further away from the spool for better casting distance and smoother drag pressure release during a fight.
The Revo Rocket 10.1 also comes with the new Power Stack Carbon Matrix drag system which is great as it makes for a more efficient, powerful and durable drag system. I have found in real life that it is better than the typical drag stacks used in the baitcasters across all brands.
Overall it had improved performance across the board. But the most important question for me was whether with the increase of gear ratio would the cranking power be up to par?
I found that this reel (stock 90mm handle) could still fast crank the same heavy drag lures as the Rocket 9 like this Halco Sorcerer 90 +4m. However the resistance is higher. It is high enough that if I had a lower gear ratio reel with more power with me, I would use that instead.
This toman was caught using a spinnerbait.
I would not choose this reel as my all-round do-everything baitcaster (I use the old Rocket 9 for everything; it is my all-round reel). I would choose this reel specifically for super high speed retrieve purposes but if I do need to use it to crank a high resistance lure, it can still handle them. With same spool capacity as the Rocket 9, I would use it too for the same situation and species.
This reel excels where speedy retrieves are needed like when using this buzzbait for toman luring.
Having said that, my friend was using only this reel to crank the deep diving Berkley Dredger 20.5ft throughout a four day trip. He did not have any problems cranking this deep diving lure with this reel.
For general purpose casting, I normally
activate 3 cast control brakes. For more less air resistant
lures and spoons I will use 2 brakes.
Though it does not have “winch” cranking power, this uber high-speed reel is perfectly capable of fighting fish, like this GT caught with a Halco Sorcerer 90 +3m! Fight the fish using the rod, not the crank handle!
Conservation
We need to protect and conserve our resources by practising catch and release of our sportfish and protecting the habitat of our fishes.