The Barbel Show 2012

gilster · #1 (**permalink**) 21-02-2011, 08:14

Alright guys started fishing for barbel this season my rod and reel have been ok but looking to upgrade,looking at the greys x flite which are a bit pricey but are well worth it from what i've been told and will sort one out for next season.
As for a quality reel was wondering if anyone was using the Daiwa linears and if so what size is best for barbel and are they man enough for chucking and cranking big heavy feeders around.
Cheers gilster

Danny · #2 (**permalink**) 21-02-2011, 12:16

I don't know the reel you have mentioned but make sure it feels balanced to the rod you are using. I personally use shimano's exclusively with the 5000 range on my barb rods. Had em years and never had any trouble with them what so ever and they have been well used during this period.

alansri200 · #3 (**permalink**) 21-02-2011, 12:48

been using shimano 6000 size baitrunners for a few years and not had any problems

KeithM · #4 (**permalink**) 21-02-2011, 13:21

I have been using Shimanos (5000, 5010 etc.) for years even though I never use the Baitrunner facility except for setting up.
I havent used the Diawa Linears that you mention so I can't give a review sorry.

But if it is the "Daiwa Tournament Linear-X 5000 BR Carp BaitRunner Reel" it looks fine.

gilster · #5 (**permalink**) 21-02-2011, 14:45

thanks for the replies lads dont know anyone who uses the linears they seem to look and sound just the job will try and find a outlet near me who stocks them then i can see them in the flesh.not getting any new gear untill the start of next season so hopfully i'll know a bit more about which rod and reel will suit me
cheers gilster

jez · #6 (**permalink**) 23-02-2011, 13:38

If your budget's a bit tight have a look at the Okuma epix pro - I've used a pair for 3 seasons now lobbing big feeders into the Trent with no problems.

Previously a diehard Shimano man until the yorkshireman in me surfaced and I couldn't bring myself to cough up the readies Wink3

gilster · #7 (**permalink**) 23-02-2011, 14:23

Cheers jez will have a look at em mate if i can save a quid lol not in a massive rush as season nearly over
cheers gilster

Sam Vimes · #8 (**permalink**) 23-02-2011, 22:20

I think I may have answered about the Linears somewhere already, if not, my apologies. The Linears are a damned big reel, no bad thing on the biggest rivers when long casts with big feeders are common, but overkill for most. I prefer Shimano XTB5500s on those big rivers but use Shimano 4000 or 5000 sized baitrunners in most situations.

Mark T · #9 (**permalink**) 24-02-2011, 10:38

okumas are good value Smile

gilster · #10 (**permalink**) 24-02-2011, 15:23

Had a look at some reviews on the okuma epix pro's all good realy definatly one to consider think the linears may be to big but the shimano 3500b look a good choice just winds me up that they only give you 1 spool with the reel and charge you 30 quid plus for a spare
cheers gilster