Baitrunner
D: As expected
Shimano put a lot of emphasis on bringing up their saltwater offerings this
year. Like the Shimano Stradic the Baitrunner gets a major makeover and the
baitrunner’s transformation is even more extreme. Since the introduction of the
Triton SeaSpin with the Baitrunner in 1986 the design on the previous reel has
gone unchanged. Certain features like Dyna-Blance and Power Roller were added
onto the reel during this time but for the most part the reel retained both it’s
classic look and form. With so many advancements in spinning reel technology
within the Shimano lineup it was high time to remake this classic.
Shimano also redesigns the
Baitrunner, and it has been a long time coming
The Baitrunner D gets a
complete redesign this year that makes the reel more compact and yet preserves
everything that guides and anglers loved about the original including the
drivetrain and patented auto return baitrunner feature. The new Baitrunner D
features S-Concept design with a direct drive mechanism with a thread in handle
attachment. The reel looks more aggressive in appearance and features an
oversized septon handle grip for power and comfort.
Shimano makes use of all
the new technologies while preserving what anglers love about the original
The Baitrunner D’s frame
and sideplate are all graphite and the spool is cold forged. The Baitrunner D
also benefits from the company’s Propulsion Line Management System and comes
with a beefed up waterproof drag system that features Dartanium II drag washers.
The Baitrunner D will come in sizes ranging from 4000 to 12000 and the smaller
reel now makes this reel more suitable for light line and inshore applications.
All but the massive 12000 size feature a 4.8:1 gear ratio and the 12000 size has
an even more powerful 4.4:1 gear ratio. The Baitrunner D will be available first
in he 8000 size right after ICAST with the other sizes following in the months
to come. The smallest 4000 size will retail for $159.99 and the 12000 size will
be only 30 dollars more.
The Baitrunner
D also benefits from the company’s Propulsion Line Management System and comes
with a beefed up waterproof drag system that features Dartanium II drag washers
Talica 2-Speed:
We previously previewed the Talica 2-Speed prior to the show and interest was
high at the event for the new powerhouse designed specifically for fly-lining
livebait. Though big on performance these reels are small on size and when
seeing and holding the reels in person they feel extremely solid and compact.
The E.I. surface treatment for corrosion protection gives the reel a unique
satiny feel.
The
baitrunner
familiar switch remains
The Talica TAC8II and
TAC10II will retail for $479.99 while the larger TAC12II and TAC16II will be 20
dollars more. All sizes will be available next month on the West Coast and in
November later this year in all other regions.
The E.I.
surface treatment for corrosion protection gives the reel a unique satiny feel,
and while it looks like gloss it doesn't feel slippery
Conclusion:
It was only fitting that Shimano debuted its powerful new saltwater reels in the
saltwater fishing paradise that is Florida. Still Florida is one of the top
states when it comes to big bass as well so I guess it is equally as appropriate
that the new Core Mg and Stradic CI4 be rolled out here as well. As always
Shimano rolled out some very high quality reels that exude both quality in
design and impressive technological advancements. The use of carbon fiber in the
new Stradic was probably the biggest surprise from the company, and the new
reels focus on delivering superior performance for finesse applications. It
looks like the gamble with the new materials have already started to pay off as
Shimano walks away with a Best of Show win in the highly contested ICAST
Freshwater Reel category. Whether you are a freshwater or saltwater angler
Shimano gives anglers considering a new reel plenty to look forward to this
coming season.
