FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (August 6, 2025) – Starting a new product release with the price isn’t exactly normal. But these aren’t exactly normal times. So, let’s get it out of the way... DAIWA’s new 2025 AIRD 80 baitcasting reel will hit the shelves at $99.99, and stay there – come hell, high water, or zombie apocalypse!

At a time when manufacturers are fearful of publishing prices, DAIWA shouts “$99.99!” from the mountaintops. “It’s a great price and will stay that way – but let’s not forget about the reel behind the price,” said DAIWA Field Marketing Manager, Chris Martin. “It might be a basic baitcaster, but the new AIRD 80 is a performer and looks great while doing it.”

The sleek and palmable AIRD 80 is a prime gateway reel into fishing a baitcasting reel. “The frame is compact and comfortable in anyone’s hand, making it a great tool for anybody wanting to advance their bass fishing, including women and kids,” said Martin.

One of its pinnacle technologies is DAIWA’s classic MAGFORCE magnetic spool braking system, which reduces overrun, aka backlash – the nemesis of anglers, especially those new to baitcasting reels. Martin added, “You can adjust the braking system, too, depending on factors like the weight of the lure and wind conditions. For example, set it around 4 for throwing small swimbaits or Texas rigs and crank it closer to 10 for bulkier lures like spinnerbaits or buzzbaits.”

The AIRD 80’s MAGFORCE braking system works in concert with DAIWA’s inventive LC (Long Casting) Concept. “We use a specially shaped spool and magnetic control to maximize casting distance,” explained Martin. “Focus is put on preventing overrun in the beginning and then extending the end of the cast, particularly with midsize lures like ChatterBaits, spinnerbaits, topwaters, weighted plastics, and crankbaits.”

The affordably priced AIRD 80 gobbles up the right amount of line for its multifaceted applications. Martin says it comfortably spools 120yds of 12lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 110yds of 14lb monofilament or fluorocarbon; 125yds of 30lb braid; and 95yds of 40lb braid. For all-around use, he specifically recommends 30lb J-BRAID Grand x8.

MSRP $99.99

THE PERFECT PAIRING

DAIWA’s AIRD X rods are extremely popular due to their performance and quality at such an affordable price. They are built from high-quality graphite, providing excellent sensitivity and strength. The rod blanks feature a proprietary carbon weave for reinforcement, reducing twist, and increasing durability while keeping the rod lightweight and responsive. Features lightweight aluminum oxide guides, split-grip EVA foam handles for comfort and balance, and a convenient hook keeper.

AIRD 80 FEATURES:

LC (Long Cast) Concept

DAIWA’s LC Concept enhances casting distance through a specialized spool design, reduced friction, and optimized braking. The concept prioritizes lightweight construction, large spool diameters, and specific spool geometries to maximize casting efficiency, especially during the final stages of the cast, and is engineered for use with midsized to large lures.

MAGFORCE Cast Control

DAIWA’s masterpiece magnetic braking system reduces backlash and improves casting performance for midsize to large lures. Magnets in the reel's side plates apply constant and controlled braking pressure to the spool, preventing overrun during casts. As you start a cast and the spool approaches maximum speed, the spool's rotor is kicked out towards the magnets, creating a smooth braking pressure to prevent backlash.

90mm SWEPT HANDLE

Designed to enhance cranking power, comfort, and aesthetics, DAIWA’s signature curved handle shape improves ergonomics, providing better leverage and a more comfortable grip compared to standard straight handles.

For DAIWA’s latest color catalog and/or information on DAIWA dealers in your area, call DAIWA’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: CSR@DAIWA.com. The URL for DAIWA’s web site is daiwa.us

About Daiwa Corporation

Daiwa's first spinning reel rolled off the assembly line in 1955. Since then, the company has grown into one of the largest and most influential tackle companies in the world today. To handle sales and distribution in the United States, Daiwa Corporation first opened its doors on September 26, 1966, operating from a small facility in Culver City, California. Today, based in Foothill Ranch, California, Daiwa Corporation sells tackle throughout the United States, Canada, Central and South America. From the very beginning, Daiwa's emphasis has been upon innovation and quality. The result is a long list of product features, design and materials that have become standards for the fishing tackle industry. Daiwa’s long-standing record of innovation has left a visible mark on the majority of tackle manufactured today and continues to advance the sport of fishing. Learn more at daiwa.us