I learned to baitcast with an old Shakespeare baitcasting reel. It was the kind that, when you made a cast, the handles turned. But the Ambassadeur 5000 was the very first freespool baitcaster I ever owned. If I recall correctly, I purchased it for $29.95 from Cousin Fred's in Carbondale, Ill. in 1967. I was a college student and spent part of my student loan to purchase the reel. Boy did the reel give me a real education!

Naturally, my red 5000 became an instant favorite with the freespool, great drag system, cast adjustments and no more bruised knuckles from the handles turning when setting the hook.

The old 5000 made many bassin' trips to Greers Ferry, Toledo Bend and Monticello lakes. My wife blames "old red" for getting me hooked on bass fishing.

I still have the war-torn reel. Most of the red has been worn off. It's long been retired and is proudly on display in our rec room.

Jim DaRosa
Isle, IL

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