Great Lakes Bass Fishing Forum

Comparison Pflueger Supreme XT - VS - Pfluger Patriarch

Just want to get some information / opinions on the differences between the Pflueger Supreme XT and the Patriarch.

From what I can see the Patriarch has 1 extra bearing, & an available model of 7.9:1 Gear Ratio VS 7.1:1 on the XT.

Are they any other published or noticeable differences between the two? Just wondering if it's worth spending the extra $50 to get the Patriarch when the XT looks pretty sweet in it's own right.

Got my answer!

Don't keep us waiting, what did you decide???

Sorry! Meant to post my results but got tied up over the last few days. I found a number of differences between the two. They are basically the same reel except for the following extras found only on the Patriarch:

- 1 Extra Bearing
- Optional Model with 7.9:1 Gear Ratio
- Dual Cast Control (Centrifugal & Magnetic)
- Patriarch appears to have a longer crank handle
- The handle in the Patriarch is Carbon Fibre (instead of whatever metal handle was used in the XT) thereby lowering the overall weight.

So for $50 more you're getting a lighter and smoother reel with a couple extra bonus features as well. Definitely seems worth the extra $50.

However, having said that, for Flipping alone, the XT is more than light enough (almost as light as the Patriarch), and has loads of drag power ($20 lbs I think?). BUT the difference I feel will be that the XT of the two reels is the only reel with a "true" Free Spool given it only operates with the Centrifugal Cast Control.

Even on a 0 magnet setting in my experience most reels that use Magnetic Cast Control still lack that true Free Spool needed to pitch ultra light weightless baits. I'd like to try some flips / pitches with each but not sure if there is anywhere that has demo models available for something like this.

After this was all said and done, reading reviews, getting opinions from other boards etc. I am still leaning towards the Chronarch E7. Call me a stubborn Shimano Guy, but there's a lot to be said about sacrificing a little performance for durability.

I had a Pflueger President a while back, best reel I even had! Launch baits a mile, smooth as silk and just an all round great reel. But it broke down within 4 years. I am still using my white Chronarch 200's and Gold Chronarch SF reels. Only ever had to clean bearings and replace a drag washer and roller bearing. Not too shabby for 11 year old reels!

Pfleuger Partiarchs are on clearance at Cabelas.