The Barbel Show 2012

jez · #11 (**permalink**) 25-02-2011, 15:23

2 spare spools and an alternative handle with the Epix Pro Smile

The 40 is the best size for barbelling

pie eater · #12 (**permalink**) 26-02-2011, 07:37

shimano 3500bs superb clutch you will no be dissapointed

Chublet · #13 (**permalink**) 26-02-2011, 18:42

Shimano 5000 GTE's for me too! Reliable, capable of casting decent distances Smile

Have a look on ebay and you'll pick some up for £50 a pop Wink

Richard Parsons · #14 (**permalink**) 26-02-2011, 19:47

As Tucker says, Okumas are great value. I use a pair of Interceptor Pro 340s (4000 size) and really rate them..30 quid each too

tomkirkwood · #15 (**permalink**) 05-07-2011, 18:15

For bigger rivers and long chuck the Shimano 5500 XTB are phenomenal. I use them for carp fishing too and cant priase them enough. For smaller close work the Shimano stradic or 5000's are great as are the Diawas with the front drag clutch.

Woody · #16 (**permalink**) 05-07-2011, 21:18

I used to be a Shimano or nothing man but have used Okuma Epix Pros for about 5 seasons and they have been great, the drag on them is very smooth and reliable unlike my old Shimano Baitrunners. The Okumas are brilliant value for money, I'm not sure they will last as long as my Shimanos but then again I could be wrong Smile

kev1911 · #17 (**permalink**) 05-07-2011, 21:38

i have an okuma undertaker baitrunner its about 8 or 9 years old now well used and is as good as the day i bought it,these reels are made by fladen of sweden and are very robust to cope with their harsh weather so they should last a very long time.

kev