When coastal anglers all over the United States, and especially those of us in the Northeast, think of Van Staal, we think of heavy-duty surf reels built to last forever, battling wetsuit-caught stripers in the surf or tackle-busting bluefin offshore. But with the introduction of the Van Staal VR II Bailed Spinning Reel Series, specifically the compact VR25B, Van Staal finds a new level sophistication, packaging what they’re known for – waterproof and durable reels that never quit – into an ultra-light, lightning-fast inshore reel that stays true to the mission statement.
Built from machined 6061-T6 aluminum, the VR25B represents a new level of evolution in lightweight saltwater performance. Designed from the ground up with the needs of the real-world coastal angler in mind, the VR25 is equally at home on sandy beaches, deep-waded to rocks, winning tough jetty battles, or aboard any vessel from a solo mission on an SUP to an offshore trek plying debris for mahi. The heart of the VR25B is its fully-sealed waterproof body and drag system, shedding fine sand, corrosive salt, and shaking off heavy ocean spray like a refreshing spring rain. From the rocky shores of Rhode Island, to the south shore sands of Long Island to the tip of Cape May, New Jersey, this reel handles constant exposure without compromising performance.
Unlike its larger VR II counterparts, (sizes 125 through 200, which utilize a 4.8:1 gear ratio that prioritizes torque), the VR25B packs an aggressive 6.3:1 gear ratio into a lightweight frame, making it perfect for light-tackle casting applications. The rapid line retrieve allows anglers to cover water efficiently, burning tins and epoxies for bones and albies, and quickly taking up slack when working soft plastics, jigs, and metals cast to aggressive inshore predators like striped bass, bluefish, fluke and weakfish.
Van Staal also took comfort to a new level with their VR II evolution adding two key updates, the redesigned drag knob and the ergonomic Powergrip reel handle knob. The new drag knob allows for micro-adjustments and easy manipulation even with wet, or (hopefully) slimy fingers. Meanwhile, the Powergrip knob offers increased grip and in-hand comfort, reducing fatigue during long days of non-stop casting while also offering full control when a big fish makes a sudden run for trouble.
Internally, spiral-bevel gearing paired with a coated shaft delivers smooth, dependable power under load, while the braid-ready aluminum spool ensures maximum casting distance with modern braid. Van Staal devotees will recognize the machine-like feel that comes from perfectly-meshed gearing that prioritizes power over smoothness; as one angler poignantly put it, “these reels almost feel like conventional reels,” and that’s a good thing if you want longevity and sustainable power.
By combining bulletproof 6061-T6 aluminum construction, a 100% waterproof seal, high-speed retrieve mechanics, and improved control, the Van Staal VR25B proves fishing light does not mean you have to sacrifice finesse if you want reliability. For the inshore angler who demands a workhorse that keeps coming back for more, season after season, the VR25B is one you’ll want to take a close look at.
