The Best Carp Fishing Reels - Shimano Baitrunner

The Shimano Baitrunner carp fishing reel is a product that the majority, if not all anglers, have used in their fishing adventures.

When Shimano released the Baitrunner over 30 years ago, they were inundated with orders for the brand new technology and the popularity for these carp fishing reels has continued ever since, with many industry experts believing the Baitrunner style reel changing carp fishing for ever.

The Shimano Baitrunner fishing reels revolutionised every part of carp fishing, from priming your carp rigs, playing a fish right through to landing the carp. This futuristic approach was achieved by allow anglers to go from the old style backwind fishing reels to a clutch system that was engaged with ease, a simple flick of the lever.

We, as humans, seem to look for more easy and convenient ways to achieve a given task, and the Shimano Baitrunner fishing reel did this for carp fishing and more so.

Over the years, since the release of the Shimano Baitrunner back in 1987, there have been over 150 different models related with small improvements made with each new release. From improved line lay, better oscialltion, improved aesthetics, higher quality components and wonderful ergonomics. 

The Shimano Baitrunner fishing reels have not only revolutionised carp fishing, but are used in multiple different forms of angling. The current range really does offer something for any style of fishing.

The more commonly used carp fishing reels in the range are the ST and DL Baitrunners which are superb value for money.

ST

The entry level ST Baitrunner fishing reels offer everything you need as a beginner carp angler or are on a tight budget but don’t won’t to comprise on quality. They really do offer so many features for the price.

ST Baitrunner Features

• Very smooth and powerful provided by the beefy retrieval system
• Excellent line lay from the Varispeed oscillation
• Ergonomic double handle design
• Lightweight
• Very Reliable like the entire Baitrunner range

DL

In the mid-range bracket is the Baitrunner DL fishing reel, which is packed full of clever features and can easily compete with other carp reels that cost more than double that of the DL. Finished in a stunning matte charcoal colour, the DL Baitrunner carp fishing reels really look the business on the bank.

. Shimano Baitrunners on Amazon

X-Aero

For carp fishing at range, the Baitrunner X-Aero is a reel to consider. These carp reels are fitted with much larger spools which assist with casting further and improve the drag performance.

The X-Aero continues with the classic body we are all familiar with in the Baitrunner range.  The X-Aero model is available in five different sizes from 2500 to 10000, with the larger spools offering a single handle to provide increased crank power, again perfect for fishing at greater distance.

XT

Another classic and hugely popular model is the Baitrunner XT-RB. Having received a facelift and upgrade, the line management is handled by Aero Wrap II with two speed oscillation providing excllent line lay. Complete with a super strong and lightweight aluminium hybrid body this reel really packs a punch for the price point. Available in 6000, 8000 and 10000 spool sizes to suit any fishing need.

XT-B Longcast

So what if you want a fishing reel that is more powerful and can cast that bit further. The Baitrunner CI4+ XT-B Longcast could be the reel for you. These reels are perfect for larger waters or to over power the biggest of carp. The XT-B Longcast reels are very popular with carp anglers across Europe, assisting in landing some monster carp over the years.

The XT-B Longcast is packed full of Shimano's latest technology including the Hagane gearing, X-Ship, Hi speed drag system and the CI4+ body. Available in a big (14000) spool for distance casting or medium (5500) spool size as a great all-rounder, these reels are superb in everyway. 

I am sure the majority of anglers have had some experience with Shimano fishing reels during their fishing career, and I believe the quality speaks for itself. The brand continues to evolve their superb product offering with improvements with every new release. The latest range of fishing reels can compete with any offering in a highly competitive market and I hope Shimano continues to excel with us anglers reaping the benefits.

. Shimano Baitrunners on Amazon