The Pflueger Patriarch XT baitcasting reel, a now-discontinued model, remains a highly sought-after gem among fishing enthusiasts. This review delves into the features and performance of this often-overlooked reel, exploring why it garnered a devoted following despite lacking initial widespread recognition. We'll examine its construction, comparing it to contemporary reels like the Abu Garcia Revo Premier, and analyze its unique design elements which contribute to both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Prepare to discover a reel that punches above its weight class.The Patriarch XT boasts a compelling blend of performance and style. Its lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fiber components, coupled with a robust dual braking system, make for a smooth and reliable casting experience. We'll dissect the reel's internal workings, scrutinizing its bearing system, drag performance, and the ease of maintenance. Ultimately, this review aims to determine if the Patriarch XT's discontinued status overshadows its undeniable qualities, and whether it still holds its own against today's leading baitcasting reels.
Read more: 5 Best Electric Fishing Reels of 2024
History and Background
The Pflueger Patriarch XT is a baitcasting reel that, surprisingly, shares a lot of its DNA with Abu Garcia Revos. It’s believed to be a second-generation model, gaining popularity alongside the Abu Garcia Revo Premier Gen 2. Both reels were considered ‘sleeper hits’—high-performing reels that didn’t get the initial hype they deserved. The original Patriarch XT stood out with its striking blue anodized side plates and more intricate details.
Interestingly, the Patriarch XT's design, especially the initial version, arguably surpassed the Revo Premier in aesthetics. Its unique features and overall design make it a highly sought-after reel, even after its discontinuation.
Specifications and Features
The Pflueger Patriarch XT boasts an aluminum frame with C-45 carbon side plates. It features an 85mm carbon fiber swept handle (a bit short by today's standards), 11 bearings (10 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing). The main shaft and main gear are made of aircraft-grade aluminum, contributing to its lightweight design.
Other notable features include a clicking spool tension, a clicking aluminum drag star, and a titanium-coated line guide. The reel's construction is clearly weight-conscious, and its drag system, though unspecified in terms of max drag, is likely robust given its Duo manufacturing.
Design and Build Quality
The Patriarch XT's design is sleek and sophisticated. The reel features a smooth, satin matte finish on the frame, contrasting nicely with the pearlescent side plates and dark chrome accents on various components, including the thumb bar and magnetic brake adjustment knob. The carbon fiber handle has beveled edges for improved ergonomics.
The handle side inlay is particularly impressive, with real carbon fiber weave visible beneath silver trim. Details like the distinct nut retainer and the drilled-out knob end caps, showcasing the carbon core, showcase Pflueger's attention to both function and aesthetics. Even the drag star is slimmer and sharper than on similar reels, contributing to its lightweight profile.
Braking System and Spool
The Patriarch XT utilizes a dual braking system: centrifugal and magnetic brakes. While using older pin-style centrifugal brakes (not the newer ‘flying arm’ type), the magnetic brakes appear quite strong enough to be used alone. The spool is 33mm, lightweight (around 11.08 grams without the bearing), and heavily ported.
The ease of access to the braking system and side plates is a significant upgrade from the previous generation. The spring-loaded side plate design allows for quick and easy access, which makes maintenance and adjustments more convenient.
Conclusion and Verdict
The Pflueger Patriarch XT, while discontinued, is a high-performance baitcasting reel with a striking design and impressive features. Its lightweight construction, smooth operation, and robust braking system make it a competitive option. The thoughtful design details—from the pearlescent side plates to the carbon fiber handle inlay—set it apart.
However, its discontinuation is a significant drawback, making it harder to find and potentially impacting long-term support and parts availability. While it holds its own against competitors like the Daiwa Tatula, it faces stiff competition from reels like the Shimano Curado DC and the Daiwa Steez, especially given its price point. For those who can find one, the Patriarch XT offers exceptional value, but its availability is a major concern.
