Author photo
What To Look For
The Mitchell Copperhead 1000T fishing reel, an ultralight, features an anti-reverse function and a top drag adjustment knob. The Copperhead 1000T provides a line capacity of 110 yards for 6-lb. test line and a gear ratio of 5.1 to 1. This translates into the spool of line rotating 5.1 times for each time the handle of the reel turns. The reel comes with a self-centering trigger system that helps align the fishing line with your index finger to make casting faster. This reel works well on a fast- to medium-action rod. The design of the Copperhead 1000T is for lighter species like panfish and trout but holds up against fish as massive as carp and channel catfish. As with all ultralight reels, the key to landing big fish on the 1000T is to tire them out before attempting to net or beach them.
Common Pitfalls
The trigger system is more a hindrance than a help for anglers not used to one. It will constantly cause the line to catch in the middle of a cast, frustrating the angler until she becomes accustomed to it. You many actually remove it with a screwdriver and enjoy this reel without it.
Where To Buy
The Copperhead 1000T is available on the Mitchell website under the "reels" section. It is under the Copperhead trigger series on the left hand side of the page. Your bait shop and tackle shop may be able to order the reel through its catalogs.
Cost
The 2009 price on the Mitchell website for a Copperhead 1000 T is $30 before taxes. Mitchell also offers the Copperhead 2000T, which is the same model except larger, for the same amount. The 2000T has a line capacity of 175 yards for 6 lb. test.
Comparison Shopping
Daiwa, Shimano and Pflueger make ultralight reels superior to this model but at a much higher price. The Cooperhead 1000T is $10 cheaper than the next lowest reliable name-brand reel, which is a Pflueger Trion GX7. The Copperhead 1000T is more than worth the price you pay for it and will allow you to catch nearly every fish you encounter with it in a freshwater scenario.
