Why choose the Daiwa BG3500 Spinning Reel?

The Daiwa BG3500 Spinning Reel is designed for anglers who need more line capacity and drag power than a compact freshwater reel can provide while still wanting a manageable spinning reel for casting. At 14.1 ounces, the BG3500 provides a substantial step up in capacity without reaching the weight of the larger BG models. Its 5.7:1 gear ratio retrieves 38.5 inches of line per handle turn, providing efficient line pickup for moving lures, long casts, and situations where quickly recovering slack is important. The spool accommodates heavier monofilament and braided line, making the BG3500 useful for larger freshwater species as well as lighter inshore applications. With a maximum drag of 17.6 pounds, it provides additional fish-fighting power when heavier line, current, structure, or larger fish are part of the equation.

Daiwa BG3500 Features

• 5.7:1 gear ratio
• 38.5 inches of line retrieve per crank
• 14.1-ounce reel weight
• 6BB + 1 bearing system
• Machined aluminum body
• Air Rotor
• ATD Drag
• DigiGear
• Screw-in handle
• Maximum drag of 17.6 pounds

Daiwa BG3500 Reel Technology

The BG3500 incorporates several Daiwa technologies designed to provide strength and dependable performance. Its aluminum body provides a rigid housing for the reel's internal components, while the Air Rotor design helps reduce unnecessary weight in the rotor. The reel also uses Daiwa's ATD Drag system to provide controlled drag performance during a fight.

The BG3500's gear train incorporates Tough DigiGear, providing a durable gearing system for repeated casting and retrieving. These technologies complement the BG3500's larger spool and increased drag capacity, making it suitable for applications that demand more from a spinning reel.

BG3500 vs. BG3000

The Daiwa BG3000 is the smaller and lighter option, weighing 10.8 ounces compared with 14.1 ounces for the BG3500. The BG3500 provides more line capacity, a slightly faster gear ratio, and a higher maximum drag. The BG3000 is well suited to medium-light and medium freshwater applications, while the BG3500 adds capacity and power for heavier line and larger fish.

BG3500 vs. BG4000

The Daiwa BG4000 increases line capacity while keeping the same 5.7:1 gear ratio and 17.6-pound maximum drag. The BG3500 weighs 14.1 ounces, compared with 14.3 ounces for the BG4000, making the two sizes very similar in overall weight. The BG4000 provides additional capacity for anglers who regularly use heavier line or need more line for long casts.

Best Uses for the Daiwa BG3500

The BG3500 is a versatile choice when anglers need more capacity and drag strength than smaller freshwater spinning reels provide.

• Bass fishing: The BG3500 provides additional line capacity and drag power for larger bass and heavier presentations.
• Walleye fishing: Its larger spool provides useful capacity for long casts and heavier line applications.
• Pike and larger freshwater species: The increased drag and line capacity make the BG3500 useful when targeting stronger freshwater fish.
• Inshore fishing: The BG3500 can handle lighter inshore applications where additional line and drag capacity are beneficial.
• Heavy freshwater spinning: It provides a practical middle ground between medium-size freshwater reels and much larger spinning reels.

Rod and Line Pairing

The BG3500 pairs well with medium and medium-heavy spinning rods when targeting larger freshwater fish or using heavier presentations. For general freshwater applications, 10- to 14-pound monofilament falls within the reel's published capacity range. Braided line is another strong option when increased sensitivity, casting distance, or abrasion resistance is important, with the reel rated for 20- and 30-pound J-Braid capacities.

When selecting a rod, consider the lure weight and line rating of the techniques you plan to fish rather than choosing solely by reel size. Our guide to spinning reel sizes explains how reel sizes relate to line capacity and fishing applications. For help building a balanced combination, see How to Match a Spinning Reel to a Fishing Rod.

BG3500 Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What size fish is the Daiwa BG3500 good for?

The BG3500 is suited to larger freshwater species such as bass and pike, as well as applications where heavier line and additional drag power are useful. It can also be used for lighter inshore fishing applications.

How much line does the Daiwa BG3500 hold?

The BG3500 holds 240 yards of 10-pound monofilament, 210 yards of 12-pound mono, or 170 yards of 14-pound mono. Daiwa lists J-Braid capacity at 310 yards of 20-pound braid or 230 yards of 30-pound braid.

What rod should I use with a Daiwa BG3500?

A medium or medium-heavy spinning rod is a natural match for the BG3500. Choose the rod based on the lure weights, line size, and species you plan to target.

Is the Daiwa BG3500 good for bass fishing?

Yes. The BG3500's 14.1-ounce weight, 38.5 inches of line recovery per turn, substantial line capacity, and 17.6-pound maximum drag make it suitable for a variety of heavier bass fishing applications.