Now, there is a more technologically advanced system that will send those audible alerts to your phone and provide you with a host of other great features, as well. On this installment of Buy or Bust we’re talking about the Smart Connect reel from Tackobox, a Bluetooth enabled spinning reel. Bluetooth connectivity allows it to communicate with your smartphone and alert you when you have a bite. So, if you set poles and want to walk away for a few minutes, you’ll know immediately if you have something on your line. You can get up to 200’ away and still get alerts. However, it’s more than just an alert system. The app also provides access to a host of other features. Let’s look at the app.
First things first – many people will ask if a product like this overcomplicates fishing or if having your phone while out on the water defeats the purpose of getting outside, relaxing and unplugging. I don’t disagree with the sentiment, I too want to leave the chaos of everyday life behind when I go outdoors and enjoy a tech free zone. However, there are some cool benefits to a product like this and if you are the kind of person that always has your phone in your pocket, this may be right up your alley. Or, if you have a kiddo that never wants to put their phone down, this could be a good way of introducing them to fishing and easing them into the outdoors.
Okay, on to the Smart Connect app. There are several different options when you open the app. The “Bite Alert” feature lets you set the sensitivity of the alert system, turn on audible alerts, vibrate alerts, light alerts or all three. It gives you this set of choices for each of the 4 reels you can manage with this system at one time. The “Sounds” menu gives you the opportunity to choose alarm tones for up to 4 reels. The “Weather” feature will give you weather updates while you’re on the water. And the “GPS” feature will allow you to pin your favorite spots, so you can find your way back to them time and again. The system has about a 40-hour battery life before it needs to be charged and charging is simple with just a USB cord. You don’t have to take your reel off your rod or bring the whole thing inside in order to charge it. Instead, the electronic component will disconnect from the reel, leaving you with a fully functional reel still while charging, and as soon as it has some juice you can clip it back on the reel and start getting alerts again.
Aside from the bite detection alert system and all of the different features available within the app, the Smart Connect reel itself has a lightweight composite body, aluminum spool, CNC machined aluminum handle, large EVA power knob, 5 ball bearing on/off instant anti reverse system, a 4.7:1 gear ratio, left/right interchangeable handle, and anti-reverse. It’s a solid reel.
This is a really great system with cool features, and for those that have their phones on them at all times you may be able to really appreciate the benefits the Smart Connect offers. In the end, it’s all about alerting anglers so they never miss another bite and that’s exactly what the system was designed to do. Check it out.
Cheers,
Trav
