Concept C2 Baitcast Reel | 13 Fishing
Our Concept C2 baitcast reel redefines ultralight precision in tournament fishing. Weighing just 5.9 ounces, this reel pairs Japanese HAMAI cut brass gears with our exclusive Carbon Matrix Hybrid drag system to deliver 22 pounds of stopping power without sacrificing smoothness.
We engineered the C2 for anglers who demand flawless performance cast after cast. The 6-Way Centrifugal Brake gives you surgical control over every presentation, while 6 stainless Arrowhead bearings plus a zero-reverse bearing ensure friction-free retrieval. Whether you're pitching jigs to heavy cover or working topwater over grass, the 13 Fishing Concept C2 gives you the edge when seconds matter.
Engineered performance specs
Japanese HAMAI gears and drag system
We source our gears from HAMAI in Japan, the same precision manufacturer trusted by the world’s top reel brands. These computer-cut brass gears mesh with tolerances measured in microns, eliminating the slop and vibration common in stamped gear systems.
The Carbon Matrix Hybrid drag pairs carbon fiber discs with our proprietary lubrication formula to produce 22 pounds of smooth, consistent pressure. Unlike traditional felt drag systems that fade under heat, our hybrid stack maintains stopping power even during extended fights with trophy fish. The drag knob offers micro-adjustability so you can dial in exactly the tension your line and technique demand.
6-Way Centrifugal Brake system
Our 6-Way Centrifugal Brake puts six independent pins on an accessible external dial, letting you adjust brake force without opening the side plate. Turn the dial to activate more pins for controlled casts in wind or when throwing lightweight baits; reduce pin engagement for maximum distance with heavier lures.
This system outperforms magnetic brakes by applying force only during spool acceleration, then releasing as the cast develops. The result is longer casts with fewer backlashes, even when fishing unfamiliar baits or adapting to changing wind conditions throughout the day.
Gear ratio options and retrieve performance
8.1:1 High-Speed Retrieve
Our 8.1:1 model recovers 33 inches of line per handle turn, making it ideal for power fishing techniques like flipping, pitching, and burning spinnerbaits over shallow cover. When a bass crushes your bait in heavy vegetation, the high gear ratio lets you winch fish away from structure before they tangle your line.
6.6:1 Versatile Workhorse
The 6.6:1 option delivers 27 inches per turn with increased torque for crankbaits, swimbaits, and deep-diving presentations. This ratio gives you better feel and hookset leverage when working baits that load the rod, and it reduces fatigue during long days of repetitive casting. Many tournament anglers who fish our full reel lineup pair a high-speed C2 with a 6.6:1 model to cover every technique efficiently.
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Common questions about the Concept C2 baitcast reel
The 8.1:1 model retrieves 33 inches of line per handle turn, making it ideal for power fishing techniques like flipping, pitching, frogging, and burning reaction baits. The 6.6:1 option recovers 27 inches per turn with increased torque, which gives you better control and feel for crankbaits, swimbaits, Alabama rigs, and other resistance-based presentations.
Both models share identical construction, bearings, drag systems, and weight. Choose based on your primary fishing techniques — many anglers own both ratios to cover every situation.
Turn the external brake dial on the handle side of the reel to engage or disengage brake pins without removing the side plate. Rotating the dial clockwise activates more pins for increased brake force, which helps control lightweight baits or casts in windy conditions.
Start with 3-4 pins engaged and adjust based on lure weight and casting conditions. More pins reduce backlash risk but limit distance; fewer pins allow longer casts with heavier lures. The beauty of the external dial is you can fine-tune brake force between casts as conditions change.
While the C2 features stainless steel bearings and corrosion-resistant components, we designed it primarily for freshwater bass fishing. The graphite frame and aluminum spool can handle occasional saltwater exposure if you rinse the reel thoroughly with fresh water after each trip.
For dedicated saltwater use, we recommend reels with fully sealed bearing systems and marine-grade coatings. If you fish inshore or brackish environments regularly, clean and lubricate your C2 after every outing to maximize its lifespan.
The C2 spool holds 110 yards of 12 lb monofilament, 110 yards of 12 lb fluorocarbon, or approximately 120 yards of 30 lb braided line. The narrow spool profile reduces line stacking issues and improves casting distance compared to wider spools.
We machine the spool from a single piece of aluminum for perfect balance and minimal wobble at high speeds. This one-piece construction also eliminates the flex common in multi-piece spools, giving you more accurate casts and consistent drag performance.
Yes, the Concept C2 performs exceptionally well with braided line, fluorocarbon, and monofilament. The ceramic Arrowhead line guide prevents abrasion with braid, while the smooth guide surface protects fluorocarbon from nicks and fraying.
When spooling braid, we recommend using a monofilament backing or specialized braid tape to prevent slippage on the aluminum spool. For fluorocarbon, the reel's low startup inertia and precision bearings give you excellent sensitivity to detect subtle bites and bottom contact.
Clean the exterior with a damp cloth after each trip to remove dirt and debris. Apply a drop of reel oil to the main shaft and handle knobs every 4-6 outings to maintain smooth operation.
We recommend a full internal cleaning and bearing service once per season or every 40-50 days of fishing. Remove old grease from the gears, inspect the drag washers for wear, and re-lubricate all bearings with our recommended reel oil. Proper maintenance ensures your C2 delivers tournament-level performance for years.
Yes, we back the 13 Fishing Concept C2 with a comprehensive warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. If you experience any manufacturing issues, contact our customer service team with your proof of purchase and we'll repair or replace your reel.
Our warranty does not cover damage from improper use, lack of maintenance, or normal wear from fishing. We stand behind the quality of our engineering and want every angler to have complete confidence in their gear on the water.