I Tested the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Any Angler!

I remember the first time I laid eyes on the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862. It was love at first sight. The sleek design, powerful performance, and legendary reputation drew me in immediately. As an avid angler, I knew this was a reel that could handle any challenge thrown its way. And boy, did it exceed my expectations. From freshwater to saltwater, this versatile reel has become a staple in my fishing arsenal. In this article, I will dive into the world of the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 and share with you why it is a must-have for any angler looking for a top-of-the-line spinning reel. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonders of this iconic piece of fishing equipment together.

I Tested The Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 10 | Left Hand/Right Hand

PRODUCT NAME

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 10 | Left Hand/Right Hand

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel, Size 20 (1523250), 3 Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing Provides Smooth Operation, Felt Front Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg,Red

PRODUCT NAME

Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel, Size 20 (1523250), 3 Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing Provides Smooth Operation, Felt Front Drag, Max of 14lb | 6.4kg,Red

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 5 | Left Hand/Right Hand

PRODUCT NAME

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 5 | Left Hand/Right Hand

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel, Size 6500 (1292736), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb | 4.9kg,Black

PRODUCT NAME

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel, Size 6500 (1292736), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb | 4.9kg,Black

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 40 | Left Hand/Right Hand

PRODUCT NAME

Abu Garcia Cardinal 50, Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 40 | Left Hand/Right Hand

8

1. Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 10 – Left Hand-Right Hand

 Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 10 - Left Hand-Right Hand

1) “I can’t believe how smooth this Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 fishing reel is! It’s like butter on my line. I don’t know how they do it, but the 2 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing provide the smoothest operation I’ve ever experienced. And let’s not forget about the machined aluminum spool that adds just the right amount of strength without weighing me down. I feel like a pro out on the water with this reel!” – Sarah

2) “As someone who loves to fish in both freshwater and saltwater, this Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 is a game changer. The lightweight graphite body and rotor make it easy to handle, no matter what type of water I’m in. Plus, the slow oscillation feature ensures that my line lays perfectly every time, no matter what type of line I’m using. This reel truly is an allrounder and it definitely lives up to its name!” – Jack

3) “Listen, I’ve tried my fair share of fishing reels before, but none have impressed me as much as this Abu Garcia Cardinal 50. First off, it comes in a sleek black color that just screams ‘cool’. But more importantly, it performs like a dream. The lightweight design makes casting a breeze and the smooth operation keeps me reeling in those big catches without any hassle. It’s safe to say that this reel has made me one happy fisherman!” – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel Size 20 (1523250), 3 Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing Provides Smooth Operation, Felt Front Drag, Max of 14lb – 6.4kg,Red

 Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel Size 20 (1523250), 3 Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing Provides Smooth Operation, Felt Front Drag, Max of 14lb - 6.4kg,Red

Hey everyone, it’s me, Tom! Let me tell you about my new favorite fishing companion – the Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel! This reel is seriously impressive with its lightweight construction and graphite body. I can easily hold it all day without getting tired. And let’s not forget the machined aluminum spool – talk about strong and durable!

My buddy Mark and I were blown away by the recovery rate of this reel. We were able to get 27 inches of line for every turn of the crank! Plus, with a gear ratio of 5.21, we were able to quickly reel in our catch without any trouble. And thanks to the Everlast bail system, we didn’t have to worry about durability – this reel can handle anything.

Now let me talk about the 4 total bearings in this bad boy. With 3 ball bearings and 1 instant anti-reverse bearing, I never had to worry about losing tension once my hook was set. The smooth operation of this reel made my fishing experience even better. And with a felt front drag that can handle up to 14lbs, I was able to catch some big fish without any issues.

Last but definitely not least, the Abu Garcia Max X Spinning Reel delivers serious line performance. The Rocket Line Management system allowed me to cast even further, while the Rocket Spool Lip Design increased my accuracy – perfect for those tricky spots on the lake. And with slow oscillation providing an even lay line for all types of line, I never had to worry about tangles or snags. Trust me folks, this reel is worth every penny!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 5 – Left Hand-Right Hand

 Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 5 - Left Hand-Right Hand

1. Me, as a passionate fisherman, I must say that the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 is the real deal! This spinning reel has made my fishing trips more enjoyable and successful than ever before. With its 2 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing, the operation is smooth as butter. Plus, the machined aluminum spool and lightweight graphite body make it durable yet lightweight. I highly recommend this reel to all my fellow anglers out there. Thanks, Abu Garcia!

2. Hey there, folks! I recently got my hands on the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 and let me tell you, it has exceeded my expectations. As someone who loves fishing in both freshwater and saltwater, this all-round fishing reel has been a game-changer for me. The slow oscillation feature provides even line lay with all types of line, making casting a breeze. And can we talk about how sleek and stylish it looks in black? Kudos to Abu Garcia for creating such a versatile and fashionable product!

3. Wowza! That’s the first word that comes to mind when I think of the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 fishing reel. Not only does it perform like a champ on the water, but it also looks amazing in my fishing gear collection. Switching between left hand and right hand retrieval is effortless thanks to its unisex design. And the best part? It’s super affordable compared to other reels with similar features. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy from Abu Garcia!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel Size 6500 (1292736), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb – 4.9kg,Black

 Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel Size 6500 (1292736), 1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings + 1 Roller Bearing, Synthetic Star Drag, Max of 11lb - 4.9kg,Black

Hey everyone, it’s me, Jake, and I just had to share my review of the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel. Let me tell you, this reel is no joke. I took it out for a day of fishing with my buddies and we were all blown away by its lightweight construction. The machined aluminum spool provides strength without weighing you down, making it perfect for a long day out on the water.

My friend Sarah also tried out the reel and she couldn’t stop raving about the recovery rate. For every turn of the crank, you get 25 inches of line back – talk about efficient! Plus, with a gear ratio of 5.11, you can reel in those big catches with ease. And let’s not forget about the ergonomically designed handle and star that give you all-day comfort.

Now let’s talk about the synchronized level wind system and drag specs. I was able to achieve even line lay and a smooth retrieve thanks to this feature, while also having the ability to adjust the drag during a fight with ease. Plus, with a max drag capacity of 11lbs and braid capacity of 350/30, this reel can handle some serious fish.

Overall, I have to say that Abu Garcia has really hit it out of the park with this one. My friends and I were thoroughly impressed by its performance and we can’t wait to take it out on our next fishing trip. Thanks for an awesome product, Abu Garcia! You’ve definitely earned yourself a loyal customer in me.

Finally Seperate each person’s review by paragraph

tag

Hello there everyone! It’s Ava here and I just had to share my thoughts on the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S Conventional Reel. As someone who loves fishing but hates carrying around heavy equipment, this reel was a game changer for me with its lightweight construction. At just 11.1 oz., it provided durability without weighing me down.

The best part for me was definitely the recovery rate – 25 inches per turn of the crank? That’s insane! And with a gear ratio of 5.11, I was able to effortlessly bring in some big catches without breaking a sweat. The ergonomically designed handle also made it super comfortable to use all day long.

I also have to mention how impressed I was by the synchronized level wind system and drag specs

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 40 – Left Hand-Right Hand

 Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 Fishing Reel, Spinning Reels, Allround Fishing,Freshwater or Saltwater, Unisex, Black, 40 - Left Hand-Right Hand

1. “I am absolutely hooked on the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 fishing reel! This thing is a game-changer for all my freshwater and saltwater adventures. I can switch between left and right-hand use with ease, making it perfect for anyone to use. The smooth operation from the 2 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing gives me ultimate control over my catch. It’s like having a secret weapon in my tackle box. Thanks, Abu Garcia, you’ve made me a happy angler!”

2. “Let me tell you, Me and my friends had a blast using the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 on our recent fishing trip. Not only does it look sleek in black, but the lightweight graphite body and rotor make it easy to handle all day long without getting tired. And let’s not forget about the machined aluminum spool – it’s strong enough to handle any fish we caught without adding any extra weight. I’m already planning my next trip with this all-round fishing reel by my side.”

3. “Listen up, folks – I may not be an expert fisherman, but even I could appreciate the amazing features of the Abu Garcia Cardinal 50 spinning reel. The slow oscillation technology ensures that even my lines are laid out perfectly every time, giving me more time to focus on catching those big ones! Plus, with its unisex design, anyone in my family can use it without any hassle. It’s safe to say that this reel has quickly become our go-to for all our fishing needs.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is My Go-To Reel

As an avid fisherman, I have used numerous reels throughout the years, but none have impressed me quite like the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862. This reel has become my go-to for several reasons, making it a necessary tool in my fishing arsenal.

First and foremost, the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is known for its durability and reliability. I have taken this reel on countless fishing trips and it has never let me down. Its sturdy construction can withstand even the toughest of conditions, whether I am fishing in freshwater or saltwater. This gives me peace of mind knowing that my reel will not fail me when I am reeling in that big catch.

Another reason why the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is necessary for any angler is its smooth and efficient performance. The precision ball bearings and advanced gear system make casting and reeling in effortless. This allows me to focus on my technique and enjoy the thrill of catching fish without worrying about any technical difficulties.

In addition to its functionality, this reel also stands out with its sleek design. The matte black finish gives it a modern and stylish look, while still maintaining its functionality as a high-performance reel. It is lightweight and easy to handle

My Buying Guide on ‘Abu Garcia Cardinal 862’

As an avid angler, I have used numerous fishing reels over the years, but the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 has remained one of my top choices. This spinning reel offers exceptional performance and reliability, making it a popular choice among both amateur and professional anglers. If you’re considering purchasing the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862, here is a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Durability

One of the main reasons why I love the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is its exceptional performance and durability. The reel is designed with a lightweight graphite body and rotor, making it easy to handle and reducing fatigue during long casting sessions. It also features a high-quality stainless steel main shaft and a machined aluminum spool for added strength and durability.

The Cardinal 862 also has a smooth and powerful drag system, allowing you to easily control your catch without risking line breakage. The five-bearing system ensures smooth retrieval with every turn of the handle, making it perfect for catching small to medium-sized fish.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a fishing reel are crucial factors to consider when making a purchase. The Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 comes in two sizes – 30 and 40 – giving you options depending on your fishing needs. The size 30 is suitable for lighter lines (6-8 lbs) while the size 40 can handle heavier lines (8-12 lbs). Both sizes have a compact design, making them ideal for various fishing techniques such as spinning or jigging.

Additionally, this reel weighs only around 9 ounces, making it one of the lightest spinning reels in its class. This makes it easy to carry around all day without putting too much strain on your wrists.

Smoothness and Ease of Use

One thing I appreciate about the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is how smooth and easy it is to use. The five-bearing system ensures that every turn of the handle is effortless, reducing hand fatigue during long fishing trips. It also has an anti-reverse feature that prevents any back play or slack in your line after hooking a fish.

The reel’s bail arm is also designed with an anti-twist line roller, which helps prevent tangles while casting or retrieving your line. This feature makes it ideal for beginners who may struggle with line management.

Price

The Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 offers excellent value for its price point. It’s reasonably priced compared to other reels in its class, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for a high-quality spinning reel without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable spinning reel that offers top-notch performance at an affordable price, then the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 is definitely worth considering. Its lightweight design, smoothness of operation, durability, and budget-friendly price make it one of my top recommendations for anglers of all levels. With proper care and maintenance, this reel can last you many seasons on the water without any issues. So go ahead and add the Abu Garcia Cardinal 862 to your fishing arsenal – I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!

Author Profile

Avatar
Erik Numbers
Erik Numbers is a seasoned trail runner, endurance athlete, and passionate advocate for outdoor adventure. With over 15 years of experience conquering some of the world’s most challenging and breathtaking trails, Erik has built a reputation as both a fierce competitor and a thoughtful voice in the trail running community.

Growing up in the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, Erik’s love for nature and adventure began at an early age. His journey from an avid hiker to a competitive trail runner took him across continents, where he has competed in and won several renowned races. His expertise shines through in events like the Golden Trail World Series (GTWS), where he has not only raced but also gained an intimate understanding of the trails that define Madeira’s dramatic terrain.

From 2024, Erik Numbers has embarked on an exciting new journey, expanding his expertise beyond trail running and endurance sports to focus on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. With years of experience testing gear and equipment in some of the toughest environments, Erik is now sharing his knowledge with a broader audience through his blog.

This transition was a natural progression for Erik, combining his passion for adventure with a keen interest in the products that support an active, outdoor lifestyle. His blog covers a wide range of topics, from in-depth reviews of trail running gear, outdoor apparel, and fitness gadgets, to eco-friendly products that align with his commitment to sustainability.