We were introduced to Quantum’s newest line of casting reels at ICAST last year during the on the water event. There, we were able to use the new Smoke Series Three (S3) for a few minutes which resulted in a longer conversation with Michael Whitman regarding the complete re-engineering that these reels have undergone.
We knew after having cast with them for several minutes that while they shared certain characteristics with the models they are replacing, these were very few with upgrades evident from top to bottom.
We have used several Quantum products in the past beginning with the Classic Express from many years ago. From then through the introduction of the S3, there have been an array of real good reels but there have also been some that have missed the mark.
This new line however really shows the commitment that the company has made to up the ante so that there products once again deliver for anglers across the spectrum.
Impressive Packaging and Specs
Our new Smoke arrived in a handsome box that details specs, features, model number, line capacity and drag information on the outside. On the inside you’ll find an envelope with greater detail as well as their new warranty plan.
The S3 makes use of three colors on the reel. A matte grey, a gloss black and red that is used sparingly for highlights.
The first thing that you notice is the oversized handle, 95 millimeters with oversized stamped EVA foam grips. It’s been interesting to watch the evolution of handle size that has gone on for several years now. Personally, I’m enjoying this industry trend.
Quantum includes micro click adjustments on the spool tension knob, brake knob and the drag star. This feature is one that we appreciate as it gives you a little more sense of control while making use of them to dial in your reel.
We obtained the SM101HPT which has a gear ratio of 7.3:1. You can also get 5.1:1, 6.1: and 8.1:1. However the 5.1:1 is only available in right hand retrieve with all the others in left and right hand.
Quantum made use of dead space on the handle lock washer by installing a line memo knob on top of it. When you spool up, you simply turn the knob to the correct # test so that you don’t have to look far to remember what line is on that reel. This is a handy little feature provided that you remember to set it.
The S3 comes with 10 + 1 bearing, an aluminum frame, ceramic carbon drag system with 25 lb max pressure, PT gearing, an over sized deep spool, anti-corrosion protection, a gull wing non handle side plate and all in a very comfortable low profile design that weighs only 6.9 oz.
Bucking the Trend
While most manufacturers have been moving to smaller spools, Quantum went the other way by increasing their spool size to provide a line capacity of 150 yards of #14 or 210 yards of #30 braid. This feature is certainly appealing for those who are looking to use heavier line.
Setting up the S3 in simple. Just follow the old rule of turning off the brakes, adjusting the reel so that your lure falls slowly to the ground and the spool stops, then turning up the brakes until you’re comfortable.
The new ACS 4.0 braking system is not a small tweak but rather a major upgrade from ACS 3.0. Now, you have 16 individual adjustment points on the dial which gives you the ability to fine tune far more than the old system. It is at the same time recessed into the side plate better so that you don’t accidentally change your setting while palming the reel.
Everything but the Kitchen Sink
We have thrown everything on the S3 including weightless soft plastics, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, swimbaits, topwater plugs, frogs, jigs, shakey heads etc. We really wanted to see if the S3 was up to the task of being a true multi-purpose reel. It has shown that it will handle anything that is 1/8 or up while maintaining excellent distance and accuracy across a wide range of lure weights.
The engineering improvements have resulted in possibly the smoothest mainstream reels that Quantum has produced thus far. The S3 not only casts smoothly but it is quiet compared to past models.
The retrieve is just as smooth, quiet and reassuring as the cast. There is now a more connected feel to your lure without the damper of gear noise, vibration or weird oscillation. The frame works in conjunction with the side plates to provide solid feedback to your hands without interference.
The new Smoke is one of the most capable pitching reels that Quantum has produced. Set properly, rapid fire presentations are no problem with this reel. Pitching into cover, shaking it a couple times then reloading for your next pitch is a breeze.
With a listed drag pressure of 25 lbs, it’s a bit difficult to put that to the test unless you’re spooled with some stout line. I generally don’t use line that is heavy enough to take that kind of heat. However, I have caught some healthy fish that have pulled drag and the S3’s system is smooth and more than strong enough to handle big fish.
The new Smoke S3 retails for $169.99 which puts it squarely in the middle of one of the most highly competitive market segments. Considering the versatility that this reel shows in terms of the techniques that you can use it for, the breadth of lures that it can handle, its light weight, line capacity, comfortable ergonomics, smooth operating characteristics and casting ability, we have no doubt that it will appeal to anglers across the spectrum. For Quantum, this new S3 Series puts them back in the discussion of best value for your money.
| The New Quantum Smoke S3 casting reel | |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating |   |
| A reel as versatile as they come | |
See ya’ on the water …
