Shimano Baitrunner XT RB Reel

Designed with carp fishing in mind, these Baitrunner XT RB reels from Shimano replace the incredibly popular RA version of the same reel. Not only has this reel experienced a cosmetic enhancement, in a stunning matt black and titanium silver, but it has also benefited from the technological improvements that Shimano has developed in the years between the design of the RA and the release of this reel.

Unlike the original reel, line wrap is now operated with the Aero Wrap II system. Commonly considered to be one of the best oscillation systems on the market today, Aero Wrap II ensures a perfect line lay each time, slowing the rate of spool oscillation in order to give you precise line wraps with each turn of your handle. This works in conjunction with the two speed spool system to ensure that you are able to cast to the best of your ability time after time. After all, most anglers will know that a top quality line lay will add much needed distance to your cast and in many ways this is a reel that has been purpose designed for distance casting carp fishing. The Shimano Baitrunner XT RB is available in 6000, 8000, and 10000 sizes. If you’re targeting mid-sized waters then the smallest 6000 is the ideal tool for you and the mid range 8000 reel is perfect for all the larger waters that you might come across. The largest 10000 size is the ideal tool for the angler who likes to target the very largest of the UK’s venues, as well as the huge continental European carp waters. If you’re an angler who aims for hug double figure carp with each outing then the Shimano Baitrunner XT RB is the perfect reel for you.

Another feature of the reel which boasts improvement from the RA model is the new hybrid body. This is not only lighter in weight but it is also significantly more durable than the material used in the original model. Having a strong and tension resistant reel body is vital to the longevity of the reels performance and this is one top end reel which can last the distance on the bank. This reel comes with a spare cold forged aluminium spool as standard – a material that is used in the main spool, too, because of its strength and durability. It is fitted with four shielded stainless steel bearings as well as one additional roller bearing. This ensures that the Shimano Baitrunner XT RB is an exceptionally smooth operating reel and it can more than comfortably withstand the strains and tensions of a large and hard fighting carp.

As the name suggests, this reel utilises Shimano’s trademark Baitrunner technology. First added to reels over two decades ago, the system has been refined to perfection. It has been so popular in its time that it has appeared in various incarnations on reels across the manufacturers, but nothing has come close to the original from Shimano. Baitrunner is operated via the use of a small lever on the rear of the reel and allows you let the reel run in a controlled freespool. The Baitrunner immediately deactivated when you set in the reel into fight mode – a feature that has made it loved by carp anglers up and down the country. It is the perfect tool for big carp anglers, allowing you target carp to run with your bait and only engaging the drag when you are ready for it. This allows for positive hook sets, time after time, and results in more landed catches and less disappointing blanks with each session. The reel is operated with a double handle and if you are looking for a top quality carp fishing reel then you need look no further than this Baitrunner XT RB from Shimano.