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Abu Garcia · Round Baitcasting Reels
Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3-5501 Reel, Left Hand, 5.3:1, 15 lb Max Drag
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Options
- Item weight
- 0.33 Kilograms
- Product dimensions
- 5.12"L x 5.12"W x 3.54"H
Quick take
A classic round reel with carbon fiber drag system and extended bent handle for power.
The Ambassadeur C3 5501 is a left-hand round baitcasting reel in the 5500 size, built around a 5.3:1 gear ratio that pulls in 26 inches of line per crank. It carries a Carbon Matrix drag topping out at 15 pounds, a six-pin centrifugal brake and a synchronized level wind. Spool capacity runs to 240 yards of 12 lb mono or 235 yards of 30 lb braid, which suits anglers who want a classic round reel for bass and similar freshwater work.
Best for
- Hard-fighting saltwater species from boat or shore
- Anglers familiar with conventional round reel design
- Situations requiring extended drag range and smooth pressure
Skip if
- You prefer compact reel profiles
- You fish small freshwater streams
Strengths
- Carbon Matrix drag provides smooth pressure across entire range
- Extended bent handle and power knob deliver leverage when fighting large fish
- Centrifugal brake ensures consistent casting performance
Trade-offs
- Carbon fiber drag requires periodic maintenance
- Larger size adds weight compared to low-profile models
Fishing fit
- Water
- Saltwater
- Techniques
- Casting
- Skill level
- Intermediate
Specifications
| Type | round baitcasting reel |
|---|---|
| Gear ratio | 5.3:1 |
| Line capacity | 240/12 yd/lb mono, 235/30 braid |
| Max drag | 15 lb |
| Line retrieve | 26 in |
| Bearings | 4 total (3 stainless steel + 1 roller) |
Facts
| Reel size | 5500 |
|---|
How it compares
| Product | Reel size |
|---|---|
| Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3-5501 Reel, Left Hand, 5.3:1, 15 lb Max Drag | Reel size:5500 |
| Shimano Ultegra XSD Surf Casting Reel, 5500 Size | Reel size:5500 |
| Piscifun Chaos XS Round Baitcasting Reel, 5.3:1, 22 lbs DragPick it if you need the largest Chaos XS, with 40 lb braid capacity and 22 lb max drag for heavy saltwater or big-fish work. | Reel size:60 |
| KastKing Rover 60 Round Baitcasting Reel, Right HandPick it if you want a right-hand size 60 baitcaster in red with a 5.3:1 gear ratio for mid-size catfish, striper or inshore work. | Reel size:60 |
| Lew's Laser XL 60 Round Baitcaster, 4.2 Gear RatioPick it if you want a right-hand, 4.2:1 size 60 baitcast reel with a 15 lb drag for moderate-speed lure work on 20 lb mono or 80 lb braid. | Reel size:60 |
| Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Reel, 6500, Right Hand, 5.1:1 Gear Ratio | Reel size:6500 |
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