Shimano Baitrunner ST FB Reel - Product Spotlight

Well suited to smaller venues, the Shimano Baitrunner ST-FB reels are a good entry-level reel that is favoured by many match anglers on the commercial waters circuit. It also popular amongst anglers who prefer the method feeder technique and can be used when carp fishing or to unprecedented effect stalking, and it is ideal when you’re fishing off the boat. The versatility of this Baitrunner reel is simply incredible; it is perfect for any angler who likes to experiment with a variety of different fishing styles.

The ST FB reels are very affordable with features including:

• Varispeed line lay

• Super Stopper II

• XT-7 Body Rotor 

• Hybrid Aluminium Body

• Stunning Understated Black Cosmetics

• Excellent Balance Under High Payloads

The Baitrunner ST FB reel fits in with all Shimano strives for with its excellent features. The majority of this reel is made up of its strong and robust hybrid aluminium body. The strength of this reel exceeds all the manufacturer’s expectations and will provide you with a premium performance when combined with your rod, so you can throw the perfect cast and bank as many bites as possible. Not only that, but aluminium is lightweight which means the reel will be easy for you to transport to and from the bank without any issues so you can make the most of your fishing experience.

The reel is also superbly corrosion resistant which is absolutely perfect for sea fishing, which this rod has been specially designed for. The aluminium properties provide the reel with long-lasting protection from the harsh seawater that can often erode other weaker and less resistant reels. With the ST FB reel, you’ll be prepared for anything. This general-purpose front drag fishing reel features a double handle for exceptional balance under high payloads so, no matter how aggressive or forceful the carp or pike you pull in may be, this reel will be able to handle it easily so there’s no chance of you missing out on banking any fish.

The features on this reel are outstanding and it has a specifications list that is more commonly seen on a reel twice its price, making it great value for money and a perfect high quality entry reel for the novice angler. One of these brilliant features is the AR-C spool which makes this reel ideal for mid to long-distance carp fishing thanks to its uniquely angled spool lip which reduces the diameter of the line coil supplied to the rod guide when casting. This results in more energy being transmitted to the cast, so you don’t have to throw so hard. This is combined with Varispeed oscillation which ensures the line can leave the speed with minimal friction and provides maximum distance with minimal effort, producing a perfect line lay each time.

The whole reel sits on an XT-7 carbon frame, Shimano’s tried and trusted carbon composite that guarantees that the reels are hard-wearing, tough and lightweight – a necessity when sea fishing. Its overall smooth gearing and excellent performance makes it an asset to any angler that wants to mix up their current set up.

The reel gets its name from the revolutionary Baitrunner system that is installed on this ST FB. The Baitrunner is a lever, fitted to the rear of the reel, which allows you to set the freespool for steady release and provides you with optimum performance.

Why Choose Shimano Reels?

Shimano has always aimed to provide top quality reels that also have high endurance and durability to combat the harsh corrosiveness of saltwater all anglers encounter when sea fishing. It has been designing and producing excellent reels since the ‘70s, so it’s clear that Shimano has all the expertise and knowledge needed to produce superior reels.