Procaster ST-30H

The Procaster ST-30H is a somewhat lesser known reel, as it was a JDM model and not part of the Longbeam series. Instead, it belongs to the Procaster range, where it sits as the entry-level model alongside the slightly higher specced GS-30H. Although it shares the same design as the Longbeam series, it does not feature a drag system. Once converted, a set of these will definitely catch attention on the bank.

History

The Procaster series were designed as long distance casting reels with no drag. In the late 80s, this range consisted of the high-end Tournament Procaster SS-45 and SS-35 models, with the more affordable entry-level models GS-35, GS-30H and ST-30H below them.

While the superior GS-35 was a 35 mm stroke model with a very similar design to the SS models, the other two featured a 30 mm stroke and a completely new design at the time. Just as the Longbeam series was introduced as a more affordable alternative to the SS/GS 3000–5000–9000 models, the GS-30H and ST-30H completed the Procaster range in the same way. These models were the only ones in the Procaster range to feature a high-speed gear ratio (H), increasing retrieval rates but at the expense of power.

In the 1990 catalogue, the ST-30H was described as an economy model. It mentions: “A new system developed from the ground up, combining a compact 30 mm stroke and a lightweight, compact design. A well balanced, highly functional reel that allows you to choose between two versions at this price point.” Compared to the GS-30H, the ST-30H was technically slightly less advanced, featuring only one ball bearing and no extra spool.

The ST-30H was discontinued after 1994, and succeeded by the Powercast S30H.

Releases

The ST-30H was released as a JDM model around 1989. Unlike the Longbeam models, this reel was only made in one size. It was the smallest of the four sizes in the Longbeam series, the same as the GS-30H, Longbeam 2000 and PM2600H. The spool dimensions are ⌀ 62/68 mm × 32 mm, matching the Longbeam 2000, PM2600H and Emblem 4500 spool sizes. But these spools are different as they have no drag. It was released in two versions, differing only in their spools. The reel included a tapered graphite PE3 or PE5 spool, both equipped with a line clip. As this reel was the most affordable Procaster model next to the GS-30H, the box only included a cloth bag.

Model comparison

Compared to other models in this family, the ST-30H stands out visually thanks to its light grey finish, with subtle green, red and dark grey accents. The bail kicker has no roller, and is white with a red stripe. The handle with hard plastic knob is identical to that of the smaller PM-H and Longbeam ST-H models, and nearly identical to the GS-30H handle, but with white instead of gold lettering.

Technically, the ST-30H sits at the lower end of the Longbeam series. It features only one ball bearing, which supports the pinion gear. It is the casting reel sibling of the Longbeam ST-H series, but it has no drag system. Internally, this reel is identical to the GS-30H, except for one fewer ball bearing. The high-speed gear ratio is 5.1:1, as found in the GS-30H and in the smaller models within the Longbeam ST-H, Longbeam GS-H and PM-H series.

Collectabillity

The ST-30H is a rare model in Europe. As they need to be converted first, they are not very sought-after. In Japan, they are sold for relatively low prices, but conversion makes them quite expensive in the end. Longbeam 2000,PM2600H or Emblem 4500 parts are typically used, but as these are no longer in production, this involves cannibalising other reels. The end result, however, is a set of unique and beautiful reels that very few people own.

Specifications

All models in this group are very similar in terms of technical design. Click the button ‘Longbeam series’ for general technical information, or further info on certain subjects below.

General specifications

Model: Procaster ST-30H
Country of manufacture: Japan
Production period: 1988-1989 till 1994
Catalogue weight: 530 g

Body & rotor

Body material: Carbon
Rotor material: Carbon
Balanced rotor: No

Internal mechanics

Drive gear: Hex, aluminium alloy
Pinion gear: Brass
Worm shaft gear: Brass
Worm shaft: Brass, plated
Gear ratio: 5.1 : 1
Osc. type: Worm gear oscillation
Main shaft: Steel, Ø6 mm
Anti-reverse: Ratchet, inside body
Ball bearings: 1 (Koyo)
– Pinion gear: 1 BB (10x20x5 mm)

Spool & bail system

Spool design: Skirtless spool
Stroke: 30 mm
Spool type: Long cast
Spool material: Graphite
Spool lip: Graphite
Line capacity (mm/m):
– PE3 version: 0.205-300, 0.235-200
– PE5 version: 0.37-200, 0.405-160
Bail type: Two-piece
Line roller: SiC, different types

Drag system

Drag type: No drag
Drag washers: N/A
Clicker sound: N/A

Handle assembly

Handle type: Power, foldable
Handle shaft: Black hex
Handle length: 85 mm
Handle knob: T-shape, hard plastic
Ambidextrous: Yes

Schematics

See the schematic below. While the exploded view is an original Daiwa drawing, the parts list has been added separately. Some original part numbers may have been replaced with newer compatible part numbers.

Other Longbeam models: