For years, Whisker Seeker Tackle loyalists have asked when the experts in all things catfishing would offer a line of fishing reels. Well folks, the wait is finally over! For 2024, after years of torture testing and development, Whisker Seeker is proud to offer two top-of-the-line baitcast reels- the Seeker 60 and Seeker 60 Pro. Recently I got my hands on a couple of these bad boys, and I couldn’t be more impressed!

Leveraging a time-tested form factor, both the 60 and 60 pro series deliver utilitarian designs focused on simplicity, strength, and reliability. Both reels are hefty precision instruments that feel good in the hand with a robustness that screams, “Let’s Go!”.  

After unboxing, turning handles, and testing critical functions, I could not wait to string them up and do some casting. However, testing had to wait until I had an opportunity to upgrade both reels with signature blaze orange Whisker Seeker reel accessory kits (RAK).  

Installation of the RAK was a cinch, and the only tools you’ll need are the hex wrench/flat screwdriver included with the reel and an extra small phillips head screwdriver. After a career in technology, I had a set of precision screwdrivers laying around with just the right size head for the task. If you don’t have one, a quick trip to your local hardware or dollar store is all that’s needed to get you going.  

One thing that cannot be overlooked is the RAK packaging. I sincerely appreciate the use of cardboard and one-sided plastic by the Whisker Seeker gurus, as the tiny screws were both effectively secured and easy to access for the end user. Too often these days, kits like this are sealed in welded plastic that requires a box opener, sharp knife, or chainsaw to open. Even then I’ve still cut myself on the sharp plastic after my patience wore out trying to get to the contents. Kudos to the Whisker Seeker marketing team for this safe and user-friendly design.

Opening the RAK pack revealed the replacement screws, power handle, and tension knobs. It’s a straightforward upgrade, and the installation instructions are ingeniously accessed by scanning a QR code on the back of the package. With the instructions open, simply follow step-by-step, and you won’t have any issues adding some bling bling and enhanced functionality to your reel.

After stringing it up with some 30 pound mono, I mounted the Seeker 60 to “old reliable”, a 7'6" Whisker Seeker GFX that has provided more than 5 years of flawless service. Next, I tied on 2 ounces of weight to test the 6-pin centrifugal brake and do some casting. With the brake started at 100%, within moments I was able to adjust the 2 ounce load to a velvety smooth descent. Preparing for the cast, the bail opened positively with a confidence inspiring click. After swinging a wide arc, I released the spool and 50 yards of line peeled off evenly with no hint of a backlash. The bail snapped shut like a bear trap, and the 3 ball bearings wound the line back on the spool consistently and evenly. Subsequent casts were just a wash, rinse, and repeat exercise, and both casting distance and control were excellent.  

The double paddle handle is comfortable on Seeker 60, but I’ve recently come to appreciate power handles on both spinning reels and baitcasting reels. If you have large to extra large hands, the increased size fills the grip and provides greater leverage for long fights with big fish. The best part is, with the available RAK pack, you can save a little money and upgrade the handle without going all in on a Seeker 60 Pro.

I strung the Seeker 60 Pro with 150 yards of Whisker Seeker braid and mounted the machined aluminum frame to my 7' Whisker Seeker Catfish and Carp rod. After tying on 2 ounces of weight, the centrifugal brake provided excellent control and after a few adjustments, I was able to achieve a steady and deliberate drop. Next, to maximize casting performance, I started reducing tension on the magnetic brake, fine tuning it to deliver a quick but precise descent. Initiating the first cast, the bail was a mirror to the Seeker 60, delivering positive tactile opening and closing. The efficient parabolic action of the rod launched the 2 ounce payload effortlessly, easily peeling off 75 yards of line with perfect control and without backlash. The 5.3:1 gear ratio recovered line quickly, and the 5 bearing drive and synchronized level wind system neatly laid braid on the reel. However, to test the centrifugal and magnetic braking systems further, I reduced weight to 1 ounce.  

Resetting the centrifugal and magnetic brakes to 100%, I tied on a favorite 1 ounce bass jig. Again, after a few adjustments, I established a comfortable drop speed with the centrifugal brake. To maximize distance while maintaining control and precision, I backed off the magnetic brake until reaching a drop that optimized speed.

The first cast was a tad overzealous, and after whipping the rod too sharply, the spool raced ahead of the jig resulting in a minor backlash. Removing several twists and turns from the braid, I opened the bail and reared back again for a second cast. This time, using proper casting technique, the Seeker 60 Pro delivered a 60-70 yard cast without a hint of backlash. Several subsequent casts reinforced that this reel is a remarkable workhorse for catfishing, but also a solid option for multi-species anglers throwing heavy jigs and spoons. This summer I won’t hesitate to use this setup for slinging slab spoons for white bass and hybrids.

The Seeker 60 and Seeker 60 Pro baitcasting reels are well worth the wait. Although I haven’t had a chance to troll catfish rigs in heavy current or deep water as of yet, I have no doubt these reels will perform admirably. They are built with an emphasis on strength, power, and precision, and their quality is obvious when you handle them for the first time.

Whisker Seeker Tackle is the leader in catfishing rods, rigs, line, and accessories. With the addition of the Seeker 60 and Seeker 60 Pro, Whisker Seeker Tackle is now the one-stop shop for all things catfishing. Take a moment to look at the new reels, and don’t just take my word on their quality. Read the multitude of 5 star reviews from satisfied customers, and then pick up your own Seeker 60 or Seeker 60 Pro today!