Baitrunner 6010 GT Reels
May 1999. Before I purchased new reels, I gave some thought as to what I would be doing with them. My need was for a pair of reels that I could use for pike fishing and also for carp. I would need the reels to be able to hold sufficient line, in the appropriate breaking strains, to lay line properly, and to be well engineered. I went to a few local tackle shops and asked to hold and feel as many reels as possible. Now some tackle shops are happy to let you do this, and others are not so keen. If a shop will not let you hold and feel, and to make an examination of an item, then go to somewhere that will. There was not a lot to be learn from the holding and looking aspect, as most of the reels would seem to be ok, and would all be up to the job. When I picked up the Shimano, and gave a few turns of the handle, I was amazed at how free running they were. Compared to some of my old reels, these had a feel of class. I was told by the tackle shop, that there was a cheaper version of the same reel, but they only has 2 bearings, as opposed to the 4 bearings in the GT version. It is reasonable to expect that the 4 bearings would give a smoother feel, and a longer life than the 2 bearing version, although I could not feel any difference in the 2 models. The reels were capable of holding the amount of line that I thought I might require, and the price was good, as they have been considerably reduced in price. I purchased two of the reels, and have been using them for all of my pike and carp work. How have they performed. I simply am not able to fault them. I love the feel of them, and the assurance that they exude. These are highly recommended, and I believe that I shall have these reels for many years to come. A word on the baitrunner facility. I do not personally use this at all, other than when I am setting up the bite alarms. I put the baitrunner on, pull line from the smooth running reel, and then flip the baitrunner off when all is set up. A useful facility for me to have, but not essential.
Line capacity is given as 12 pound = 270 yards, and 17 pounds as 190 yards