Shimano Ultegra XTE and XSE
Price: £179.99
Shimano says the Ultegra XTE and XSE will redefine the mid-priced long-range reel market. Packed with many of Shimano’s ‘long cast’ technologies, these reels boast Super Slow Oscillation for perfect line-lay, which will in turn reduce friction and increase casting performance.
Other technical features include HAGANE Gear and X-SHIP for amazing smoothness and lightweight rotation. Rigid Cast reduces spool deflection at the moment of release, while Parallel Body sends the line out at the perfect angle. If casting power and efficiency is what you want, these reels have answered every question in the book. The XTE is in a darker stealth colour, while the XSE is a clean light silver.
Angling Times says:
“These new reels from an established and respected market leader are packed with features to match the performance of far more expensive alternatives. They look incredible, too, and should make casting reasonable distances a far more painless task. Not the cheapest, but certainly good value for the serious carper.”
Shimano Baitrunner ST RB
Price: £64.99
Perhaps the best budget Baitrunner reel money can buy. This double handled reel has a traditional and easy to use switch, to change instantly from locked up to free running. The aluminium AR-C spool and Varispeed line lay offer very good technical performance for the price, and the powerful 4:6:1 gear ratio gives the right amount of power to land large fish. Available in 6000 and 10000 sizes, there are options to cover a variety of angling situations, from fishing three rods at mid to long range, to surface fishing and stalking.
Angling Times says:
“If you’re just getting into carp fishing and looking to save some cash on the whole host of kit you will need, then these are 100 per cent the reels for you. Despite being cheaper than other Baitrunners they’ll stand the test of time and perform exactly as you require. They also make a great choice for that snide stalking rod, or as a reel for your dedicated floater fishing set-up.”
Okuma INC Carp Reel
Price: £54.99 – £69.99
This mini big pit carp reel has built itself a substantial reputation since being introduced. Available in 6000 and 8000 sizes, the compact body is perfect for fitting two, three or even four rods on a pod. Its main technical features include a slow oscillation system for perfect line-lay across the 30mm long-stroke spool.
It also has a fast drag system and quick set infinite anti-reverse for battling hard-fighting fish. The two metal line clips are a nice touch and useful for fishing multiple spots, while the corrosion resistant graphite body will mean this reel will easily withstand the rigours of regular sessions.
Angling Times says:
“This neat and tidy little reel looks the business and, with its offset wooden handle knob, has that extra little bit of class too which you don’t always find on items in this price bracket.
Ideal for a wide range of modern carp fishing scenarios, and perfect for fishing with scaled-down kit on smaller waters or when you need to travel light and keep weight to a minimum.
For a reel of this high quality, the price is more than reasonable too.”
Okuma Pulzar Baitfeeder Carp Reel
Price: £22.50 - £39.99
These fantastic little reels are durable and well priced. In 4000, 6000 and 7000 sizes, they’re suitable for all manner of situations a carp angler may find themselves in. With five ball-bearings and one roller bearing, a corrosion resistant graphite body and auto-switch freespool system, the Pulzar also boats a cyclonic flow rotor design, which increases air flow through the ported rotor, minimising water intrusion and corrosion. The S-curve oscillation system and even flow line roller work to reduce friction for better casting, and once a fish is hooked, the quick set infinite anti-reverse gives the angler complete control. A spare spool is supplied in the box.
Angling Times says:
“For the price these reels look great, thanks to an understated look. Plenty of thought has gone into the mechanics of the reel, too, meaning they’ll not only do the job required, but won’t let you down after just one season of use. We think they would make the ideal partner for a stalking or surface rod, to have in the car at all times. A real workhorse piece of kit.”