Reelchoices for bowfishing set ups?

[Izzy]

I recently bought a Cajun Archery setup with a Zebco 808 reel which lasted only two outings before the spool started locking up on me when taking shots.Luckily no snapbacks occurred,probably cause I was using sliders on my glass arras but the line snapped and my arras are probably still ripping through the Mohawk River somewhere.Now I have the Conundrum of picking a reliable setup that wont quit on me so easily.I may even go simple and use the big ol screw in spool.I like the AMS reel but have heard mixed reviews.So,,, what do you real hardcore ,fish shootin folks recommend?
                         Thanks, Izzy

[JSimon]

I have not tried a Zebco style reel, but my AMS Retriever is WAY easier and quicker than hand winding the line on a spool. The AMS is a pretty simple design and mine has been maintenance free for two years now. I don't even clean mine, but I probably should once in a while!

[swampbuck]

My zebco lasted longer than yours but did eventually start hanging up sometimes.I've since bought the retriever by AMS and don't regret it at all

[BMN]

I love my AMS. Simple, rugged, maintenance free, and you don't have to remember to push a button. The only downside I have heard is that line retreival is slower than other reels. That may be but its never been a problem for me.

 

[VTer]

Retriever reel, all the way. So simple, a caveman can do it.

[Pullonmylimb]

what about an old open face spinning reel.

[Shawn Leonard]

AMS all the way, just do not use it to fight the fish and bring him in. It is meant as a quick line retreiver. I have had a couple over the yaers and no complaints at all. Izzy,  ihad my knee operated on today but ya can call me tonight if ya want. Shawn

[owlbait]

Probably 90%+ use the AMS retriever at the Great Lakes Bowfishing Championship. I have used both and now exclusively use the AMS. My closed face reel for bowfishing is gonna be a pike reel!

[mrgreenhead]

I got a lefy ams and a bunch of arrows collcting dust , I havent shot scale since i stop shooting the tournamants

[fireman_3311]

Another vote for the AMS Retriever Reel!!!

[Jerry Jeffer]

I've been shooting the old Bear screw in front reel for years.  I like hand lining the fish in. Simple with little chance of screw up.  If I want to "reel in", I'll get out my rod.

[Jason R. Wesbrock]

Originally posted by herkimerhunter:
I like the AMS reel but have heard mixed reviews.
                         Thanks, Izzy

I bought my first AMS Retriever at the Dalton Expo show back in '93 or so. I couldn't begin to guess how many thousands of shots I've put through it over the years, but it's never failed me even once.

[toddster]

Well, guess I am once again different from everyone else.  I don't like the retrievers.  I have had over the years with problems with the 888 and 808's.  I found that the Shakespeare synergy is cheaper and last longer, used one for 4 years before it broke.  I also found that the old zebco 808 black and tan are way better for bowfishing.  I do have the revamped muzzy reel and am looking to try it, as soon as my second shakespeare gives out.