When it comes to musky fishing, your gear matters a lot. The size of the lure, the strength of your hookset, and the fight you’re about to endure all rely on one thing: a balanced setup that’s built to handle power and precision.
In this article, we’re breaking down two of the most trusted musky reels in the game: the Daiwa Lexa and the Daiwa Prorex. We will also discuss gear ratios that match up best with different bait styles, and why Sufix ProMix braid is our go-to line for every musky outing.
Whether you’re just getting into musky fishing or refining your setup for big rubber and double 10s, this guide will help you pick the right reel, gear ratio, and line to fish smarter and fight harder. 
Daiwa Lexa vs Prorex: Two Proven Musky Workhorses
If you ask serious musky anglers what reels they rely on, Daiwa consistently lands at the top, especially the Lexa and Prorex models. These reels are built for heavy-duty performance and designed to hold up to the demands of big baits and big fish.
Both reels come in multiple sizes and gear ratios, giving you plenty of flexibility to match the reel to your fishing style.
Daiwa Lexa vs Prorex Comparison Chart
| Feature | Daiwa Lexa | Daiwa Prorex |
| Sizes Available | 300, 400, 500 | 400 |
| Gear Ratios | 5.1, 6.3, 7.1, 7.4,8.1 | 5.3, 7.1, 8.1 |
| Frame Construction | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame with reinforced side plate |
| Drag Power | Up to 25 lbs | Up to 28 lbs |
| Handle | Power handle or paddle grip options | Oversized EVA power handle |
| Ideal For | All-around musky fishing | Heavy-duty applications, big blades/rubber |
| Weight | Slightly lighter | Slightly heavier, more robust feel |
Both reels can get the job done. The Lexa is a proven favorite for its balance and versatility, while the Prorex leans a little heavier-duty for anglers regularly throwing oversized baits.
Reel Sizes: 300 vs 400 vs 500 – What Do You Really Need?
Choosing the right reel size has less to do with experience and more to do with what you’re casting. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 300 Size:
Ideal for medium-sized bucktails, smaller rubber, and glide baits. Offers good line capacity with a more compact feel. - 400 Size:
A great all-around size that handles just about any musky lure. From large bucktails to big topwaters and jerkbaits. - 500 Size:
Built for big rubber and the heaviest baits in your box. Extra line capacity and gear strength help manage serious drag runs and big hooks.
For most anglers, the 400 size is the sweet spot for balancing power and versatility.
Gear Ratios Explained: Match Your Reel to Your Lure
Musky fishing isn’t just about brute force; it’s about timing, control, and efficiency. And that’s where gear ratio plays a huge role.
“If I’m using a bigger bucktail with size 12 blades, I go to the lower gear ratio. With a jerkbait, you might use the higher gear ratio so you’re picking up line faster”, says Angling Edge Contributor, Jeff Simpson.
Here’s a guide to help you pick the right gear ratio:
| Gear Ratio | Best For |
| 5.3:1 – 5.4:1 | Large bucktails (double 10s, size 12 blades), big rubber |
| 6.3:1 | All-around – great for medium bucktails, jerkbaits, and glide baits |
| 7.1:1 | Fast-moving baits, burning bucktails, poppers |
| 8.1:1 | Picking up slack quickly, speed presentations, and follow-up casts |
A slower ratio gives you more torque, which is ideal when retrieving heavy baits that pull hard. Higher ratios shine when you need to keep up with fish or retrieve fast to trigger reaction strikes.
Best Line for Musky Fishing: Why We Use Sufix ProMix Braid
Reel choice is only half the equation; your line needs to be just as strong and reliable.
Sufix ProMix braid is a premium musky line known for its:
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Strong, reliable knot strength
- Smooth, consistent casting
- Low stretch for solid hooksets
Recommended pound test:
- 65 lb – 80 lb for most casting applications
- Go heavier when fishing in wood or dense vegetation
The smoothness of ProMix helps increase casting distance and minimizes wind knots, a big plus when slinging large baits in tough conditions.
The Right Gear Makes Musky Fishing More Effective… and More Fun
Musky fishing is tough, but it’s a lot tougher if your gear isn’t matched to your style. By understanding how reel size, gear ratio, and braid selection work together, you’ll spend less time struggling and more time sticking fish.
Whether you’re running a Daiwa Lexa 400 with 80 lb Sufix ProMix or a Prorex 500 for big rubber, the key is making sure each part of your setup supports the other. Dial it in right, and your next big musky won’t just be a “follow”, it’ll be a boat-side blowup you’re ready for.
