Search
Close this search box.
Reels

Pflueger Patriarch Spinning Reel Review

The Pflueger Patriarch is one of the lightest, most durable spinning reels on the market. With its 10-bearing system and titanium-coated line roller, this reel is smooth, easy to use, and built to last. For anglers of all skill levels, the Patriarch is a great choice.
Rating
4.7/5
Pflueger Patriarch spinning reel ready to spool with line.

Size: 5.2:1
Ball Bearings: 10
Anti Reverse Bearing: Yes
Max Drag: 5
Gear Ratio: 5.2:1
Retrieve Rate: Left/Right
Spool Material: Skeletonized aircraft-grade aluminum
Braid Ready: Yes
Handle Material: Extra-light carbon

We Like

We Don't Like

Our Thoughts

For many people, their choice of spinning reel is a very personal decision. I’ve tried out a lot of different brands and models over the years, and the Pflueger Patriarch is one of my favorites.

The Pflueger Patriarch is a well-crafted reel that’s built to last. It features a magnesium frame and titanium shaft, which makes it incredibly light and durable. The 10-bearing system ensures smooth operation, while the spring-loaded line clip prevents tangling.

In my opinion, the Pflueger Patriarch is the perfect reel for anglers of any skill level. It’s lightweight and easy to operate, yet it’s also built to withstand the rigors of serious fishing.

If you’re in the market for a new spinning reel, I would highly recommend the Pflueger Patriarch. It’s an outstanding reel that will provide years of dependable service.

Reviewer Analysis

The Patriarch is an established reel in the market. It was first released around 2011 and though it’s not as popular as it once was, it is still a very solid and reliable option for a freshwater and inshore fishing. So while it’s not the hottest reel on the market, it’s still a great reel that deserves some recognition.

Construction and Durability

When I first got my hands on the Pflueger Patriarch Spinning Reel, I was impressed with how light it was. It’s made from magnesium and has a titanium shaft, so it’s really lightweight and durable. The construction and design are top-notch and it’s obvious that a lot of thought went into making this reel. It’s also very smooth and has a very fast gear ratio, which is perfect for fishing soft plastic baits.

The Pflueger Patriarch is very well-constructed and features a magnesium frame and titanium shaft. The titanium main shaft is also 30% stronger and 43% lighter than a stainless steel shaft, making it perfect for those long days out on the water. Additionally, the proprietary 3-step coating protects the magnesium frame, rotor, and sideplate from corrosion, while the Skeletonized aircraft-grade aluminum spool is designed for durability.

The only thing that I’m not a fan of is the plastic handle. It feels a bit cheap compared to the rest of the reel, but it hasn’t caused any problems so far.

Additionally, the carbon drag system is very durable and can be accessed via four screws that release the entire spool assembly. I’ve found that this reel can withstand a lot of wear and tear, which is perfect for those long days on the water.

Performance

I’ve used the Patriarch to catch all sorts of fish, but most notably largemouth bass and striped bass. The Patriarch is a great reel for both of these fish because it’s lightweight and has a good drag system. I’ve also used it to catch smaller fish like panfish and trout, and it’s worked well for those too.

The Patriarch has performed well in all of the different fishing conditions I’ve used it in. The drag system is smooth and has enough power to handle big fish like largemouth bass and striped bass. The 10 bearing system with XCR Ball Bearings ensures that there is virtually no friction, making for a pleasant casting and reeling experience.

The only time I’ve had any issues with the reel is when saltwater gets into it. If you’re planning on using this reel in saltwater, make sure to rinse it off afterwards to avoid any corrosion issues.

Ease Of Use

The Patriarch is a very easy reel to use. The drag system is easy to adjust, and the 10 bearing system makes for a smooth casting and reeling experience. The only thing that took some getting used to was the spring-loaded line clip. Once I figured out how it worked, though, it was no problem.

The Patriarch compares favorably to other spinning reels on the market. It’s just as light as some of the newer reels on the market, but doesn’t sacrifice durability or performance. The only area where it falls short is in price. At over $200, it’s not the cheapest reel on the market, but it’s still a great value for what you get.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Pflueger Patriarch spinning reel is a great reel that is built to last. It’s light, durable, and performs well in a variety of different fishing conditions. If you’re looking for a great freshwater spinning reel, the Patriarch should definitely be at the top of your list.

Handle and side of the Pflueger Patriarch.

Features

XCR Ball Bearings for Smooth Swiveling

XCR ball bearings are a type of ball bearing that is designed for smooth swiveling. The bearings are made of steel and have a separator/retainer/cage that holds the balls in place. The inner ring of the bearing rotates, along with the separator and the rolling elements, and the outer ring is stationary. However, sometimes the inner ring rotates and the outer ring is stationary.

The main benefit of XCR ball bearings is that they provide smooth swiveling action, which can be helpful when fishing. The bearings are less likely to wear out than other types of ball bearings, making them a good choice for those who want their spinning reel to last.

Lightweight Carbon Handle with EVA Knob for All-Day Fishability

Carbon fiber is a material that is made from very thin strands of carbon. The carbon fibers are usually combined with other materials to create a composite material. Carbon fiber is known for being strong and lightweight, and it is often used in the construction of aircraft and racing cars.

EVA knob is a type of knob that is made from a soft, lightweight material called EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). EVA knobs are often used on fishing reels because they provide a comfortable grip and require less force to turn than other types of knobs.

The main benefit of a carbon fiber handle is that it is much lighter than other types of handles. This can be helpful for anglers who want to reduce the amount of weight they are carrying while fishing. Carbon fiber handles tend to be very strong and durable, which can be beneficial if you plan on using your reel in rough conditions. Additionally, carbon fiber handles often have a comfortable grip that can make it easier to hold onto your reel for long periods of time.

Sealed Carbon Drag for a Smoother Reel

Carbon drag is a type of drag material that is made from carbon fiber. Carbon drag washers are found in many high-end spinning reels and are known for their smoothness and durability.

Carbon drag works by providing a smooth and consistent drag pressure throughout the life of the reel. This is because the carbon fiber material does not gum up like felt drag washers can.

The benefits of carbon drag include a smoother reel, increased durability, and increased confidence when fishing.

Magnesium Body and Rotor for a Lightweight Design

Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a shiny gray solid which bears a close physical resemblance to the other five elements in the second column (Group 2, or alkaline earth metals) of the periodic table: all group 2 elements have the same electron configuration in the outermost occupied s subshell and are similarly colored.

The benefits of magnesium include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, maintaining blood sugar levels, helping with bowel regularity, and improving sleep quality. Magnesium is effective in treating migraines and headaches, as well as reducing PMS symptoms.

Machined Aluminum Main Gear for Optimal Functionality

Machined aluminum is a type of aluminum that has been specifically designed for use in CNC machines. It is characterized by its precision tolerances, smooth surface finish, and high strength-to-weight ratio.

The benefits of machined aluminum include its high strength-to-weight ratio, which makes it ideal for use in CNC machines. In addition, machined aluminum boasts precision tolerances and a smooth surface finish that results in superior functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Slow Oscillation for Efficient Line Retrieval

Slow oscillation is a feature on the Pflueger Patriarch Spinning Reel that helps to reduce line friction and wear. This technology works by having a slower rate of oscillation which allows the line to be retrieved at a smoother pace. This ultimately leads to less wear and tear on the line, as well as increased casting distances.

Slow oscillation is an important feature for those who are looking to get the most out of their spinning reel. By reducing line wear, this technology helps to extend the life of the reel. Additionally, slow oscillation provides for increased casting distances which can be beneficial when trying to reach fish that are further away.

Lightweight Titanium Shaft for Superior Strength

Titanium is a chemical element with symbol T and atomic number 22. It was discovered in Cornwall, Great Britain in 1791. Titanium is resistant to corrosion and sea water, aqua regia, and chlorine. Titanium is found in almost all living things, including water bodies, rocks and soils. It is extracted from its principal mineral ores by the crawl and hunter processes.

The benefits of titanium include its light weight, high strength, resistance to corrosion, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Titanium is non-toxic and hypoallergenic.

Carbon Arbor for Reduced Weight

Carbon arbor is a stronger and lighter weight alternative to the traditional steel or aluminum arbors used in spinning reel design. It is made of high-strength carbon fiber that has been formed into a tube. This makes it more durable and resistant to breaking under heavy loads. The main benefit of using a carbon arbor is its reduced weight, which helps to make the overall reel lighter and easier to use.

The main difference between carbon fiber and carbon arbor is in their respective weights. Carbon fiber is much lighter than steel or aluminum, making it an ideal choice for use in spinning reel design. Carbon arbor, on the other hand, is slightly heavier than carbon fiber but still significantly lighter than either steel or aluminum. This makes it an ideal compromise between weight and strength for many fishermen.

The benefits of using a carbon arbor include reduced weight, increased strength, and increased resistance to breakage under heavy loads. These benefits make it an ideal choice for those looking for a lightweight and durable spinning reel.

Titanium Main Shaft for Added Strength

The main shaft of a spinning reel is one of the most important parts of the reel. It is responsible for transferring the force from the handle to the spool. A titanium main shaft is 30% stronger and 43% lighter than a stainless steel shaft. This makes it ideal for a spinning reel because it can handle more force and resist corrosion better than other materials.

A titanium main shaft has several benefits that make it ideal for a spinning reel. First, it is much stronger than other materials, making it less likely to break under stress. Second, it is very light, making the reel easier to handle. Third, it is resistant to corrosion, so it will last longer in saltwater environments.

Skeletonized Spool for Reduced Weight & Improved Line Management

A skeletonized spool is a type of fishing reel spool that has been designed with weight reduction in mind. The spool itself is made from a lightweight material, such as aluminum, and features cutouts or holes throughout its design. This reduces the overall weight of the spool without sacrificing strength or durability.

Skeletonized spools work by reducing the overall weight of the reel. This makes them easier to use for long periods of time and can improve your casting distance. The reduced weight helps to reduce fatigue, so you can fish for longer periods of time without feeling exhausted.

There are several benefits associated with using a skeletonized spool on your fishing reel. These benefits include:

-Reduced overall weight for improved portability and reduced fatigue

-Cutouts help to improve line management by preventing tangles and knots

-Allows you to cast your line farther distances

Man holding a bass that was caught with the Patriarch.

FAQs

You’ll be able to catch a wide variety of fish with the Patriarch. It’s perfect for anglers who want to Bass fish, or those who want to try their hand at structure fishing.
The drag system on the Patriarch Spinning Reel is very advanced. It’s a carbon drag system that’s sealed deep within the spool. You can access it via four screws, which release the entire assembly.
The Pflueger Patriarch is very durable. It’s made out of magnesium and has a solid titanium shaft.
The Patriarch reel is easy to use. It has a “Sure-Click” bail mechanism and a spring-loaded line clip.
Some of the features include a carbon fiber handle, a neoprene protective bag, and a titanium-coated line roller.
The Pflueger Patriarch compares favorably to other spinning reels on the market and is able to hold it’s own, even with some of the newer models. With it’s magnesium construction, titanium shaft, and solid carbon fiber handle, the Patriarch was designed to last.
The retrieve rate is size dependant with the 25X starting at 24.5″ and going up to 28.8″ on the 35X.
The gear ratio is 5.2:1.
The maximum drag ranges from 5 lbs on the smallest size and goes up to 14 lbs on the largest size of the model.
The spool material on the Pflueger Patriarch is Skeletonized aircraft-grade aluminum.
Up close on the Patriarch's spool.

Conclusion

The Pflueger Patriarch spinning reel is a great choice for anglers of all skill levels. Its light weight, smooth operation, and durability make it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality spinning reel. For more information, please click through to one of our ecommerce partners.

Share
Tweet
Pin

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Related Posts

A man in a green shirt holding a drop shot rig for bass fishing

Drop Shot Fishing For Bass

Discover the drop shotting technique, a favorite among professional bass anglers, that presents bait in an irresistible way to bass. Learn the rig setup, gear selection, and advanced strategies to improve your bass fishing skills. Read now!

Read More
A person holding a chatterbait lure for bass fishing

How To Fish With A Chatterbait Lure

Boost your bass fishing success with chatterbaits – the revolutionary bait that mimics real-life baitfish movements. Learn the versatile techniques and optimal fishing conditions for using chatterbaits to entice bass strikes. Find out how to choose the right gear and tackle for maximum effectiveness. Discover solutions to common challenges and the importance of responsible angling. Read now to elevate your bass fishing strategies with chatterbaits!

Read More
A man holding a large bass fish on a lake

Best Summer Bass Fishing Techniques

Enhance your angling skills and increase your summer fishing success by understanding bass behavior during the hot summer months. Learn how temperature, light, cover, and forage availability influence bass movements and feeding patterns. Discover the best fishing techniques and lure selection for catching bass in the summer. Read now!

Read More
A person holding the 13 Fishing Origin C baitcasting reel

13 Fishing Origin C Baitcaster Review

Looking for a high-performing casting reel that won’t break the bank? Our review of the 13 Fishing Origin C covers everything you need to know! With its 18-pound max drag, Japanese Hamai Cut Gearing, and Arrowhead Line Guide, this reel seems like a steal, but does it deliver on its promises? Find out in our full review!

Read More