Matrix Aquos Ultra Reel

Its Build

The first thing you notice about the Aquos Ultra is that it is super lightweight. Its compact graphite body strikes an excellent balance between durability and weight reduction.

At 282g for the 3000 model and 294g for the 4000 model, it's noticeably lighter than many competitors in its class.

The construction quality is evident in the detailed machined aluminium spool, which not only adds to the reel's understated aesthetics but also contributes to its durability and smooth operation.

However, it's worth noting that while the graphite body offers excellent weight savings, it may not be as robust as some metal-bodied reels.

Features

One of the features that I and many anglers love on the Matrix Aquos Ultra is its multi-disc front drag system. This system allows for precise, ultra-smooth adjustments, which come into its own when fighting larger fish.

The gradual increase in pressure provided by this drag system gives you confidence when hooking something that pulls back.

The reel comes equipped with 6+1 stainless steel ball bearings, ensuring smooth operation and reduced friction on the retrieve. For a budget-style reel, this bearing count is superb considering its price point.

The gear ratio of 5.2:1 for the 3000 and 4000 models offers a balanced retrieve speed, making it suitable for both float and feeder fishing.

The retrieve rate of 82cm per turn for the 3000 model and 87cm for the 4000 model is slightly faster than average for its price range which I always find handy when in amongst the silvers.

An advanced bail arm shape is another noteworthy feature, designed to offer quicker line pick-up and reduce the chances of tangles. This is particularly useful when working with lighter lines.

How does it perform on the bank?

In action, the Matrix Aquos Ultra Reel is very well-balanced. Its lightweight nature becomes immediately apparent during extended use. The smooth operation of the ball bearings is noticeable, particularly in labour-intensive sessions.

The multi-disc drag system performs admirably when put to the test and is a godsend when fishing commercial-type waters with hard fighting Carp and Tench present.

Line capacity is ample for most float and feeder fishing scenarios, with the 3000 model holding 150m of 0.22mm line and the 4000 model accommodating 150m of 0.28mm line.

This capacity provides sufficient versatility for a range of fishing applications, from short-range float work to mid-range feeder fishing.

The quick pick-up rotor and bail arm design prove their worth in real-world use, reducing the occurrence of line tangles and improving overall casting performance.

This feature is particularly appreciated when you find yourself frequently casting.

While the reel performs exceptionally well in most situations, some anglers might find it slightly underpowered in comparison to the premium reels out there but, hey, for the price point, this can be forgiven.

Summary & Conclusion

In summary, the Aquos Ultra is a fantastic lightweight reel for float and feeder fishing. Its build quality, smooth operation, and thoughtful features make it a strong contender in its price range.

The reel's strengths lie in its lightweight design, smooth drag system, and versatile performance across various fishing techniques.

While it may not have the robustness of some higher-end models, it offers excellent value for money, especially for beginners or casual anglers.