Earlier this year I found myself lucky enough to get a firsthand look at the all new Quantum Cabo reel down in Jensen Beach Florida. During my stay, Florida charter captains put Fisherman publisher and owner, Mike Caruso and I on a number of inshore species, including snook, jacks and tarpon as well as sailfish on the midshore grounds. With newly designed Cabos in hand, these reels proved their worthiness—a testament of what’s to come when they hit the Northeast market. And if that’s not enough, it should be known that the Cabo was voted Best Saltwater Reel at ICAST 2025!
Rugged Design
Built for the salt and designed for war with fish, the Quantum Cabo spinning reel is a trusted workhorse for anglers who demand durability, power, and performance in punishing saltwater environments. Whether targeting hard-charging pelagics offshore or battling striped bass and bluefish from the surf, the Cabo is engineered to take abuse and keep fishing. Its rock-solid frame starts with a one-piece aluminum body that’s diecast and CNC-machined for extreme rigidity. This ensures that gears stay perfectly aligned under load, even when you’re cranking down on big fish in heavy current. The Cabo isn’t just strong—it’s smart, too. The heart of the reel is Quantum’s new GearTech system, a machined stainless steel drive gear paired with a forged brass pinion that delivers a remarkably smooth retrieve and long-lasting precision.
Saltwater is notoriously harsh, but the Cabo is sealed tight with IPX8-rated Sealed Reel Engine design. Depending on the model, between 13 and 15 internal seals keep water and salt at bay, so you can fish hard in wet conditions without worrying about corrosion. From the drag stack to the handle shaft, everything is protected. Speaking of drag, the Cabo features a carbon-fiber CFX200 drag system with ceramic and stainless-steel washers, offering rock-steady tension and a wide range of adjustability. The drag is silky smooth even under max pressure—perfect for soaking live bait or dropping jigs to deep wrecks.
Line lay is dialed in thanks to the slow oscillation Casteq system, which lays braid evenly across the spool and minimizes wind knots and friction. This translates to longer, smoother casts and fewer headaches.
An Array Of Sizes
Offered in sizes from 2500 to 8000, the Cabo covers the full spectrum of inshore to light offshore applications. Whether you’re working the rocks for stripers, patrolling the flats bluefish, or doing some light offshore tuna jigging, there’s a Cabo that fits the fight. Oversized EVA knobs offer comfortable, non-slip grip, and the aluminum screw-in handle provides rock-solid torque transfer. The overall fit and finish is tight, with a sleek silver and blue aesthetic that looks as sharp as it performs.
Anglers looking for a reel that’s as tough as it is smooth will find a solid ally in the Quantum Cabo. It’s not just saltwater capable—it’s saltwater ready. Built to last and backed by Quantum’s confidence-inspiring 5-year warranty, the Cabo is a premium spinning reel without the huge price tag. For fishermen who demand reliability cast after cast, fight after fight, the Cabo earns its place on deck. Those who know the old Cabo, get ready to welcome back the updated workhorse. Those who are not familiar with the series, I recommend you get acquainted with it come the end of 2025.
