Reviews: Key Opinions on the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast Baitrunner Reel
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a top-performing baitrunner reel that excels in power and capacity. Anglers praise its smooth operation, robust construction, and ability to handle big game fish with ease.
Its exceptional line capacity and drag force make it ideal for targeting large species in both freshwater and saltwater, while the long-cast spool enhances surfcasting and long-distance casting performance.
Though it’s on the heavier side, the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a reliable and powerful choice for anglers seeking a high-performing reel for demanding fishing situations.
Our comprehensive review combines expert analysis with real angler experiences to give you the full picture of the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast baitrunner reel. Discover the pros and cons of this popular reel, and make the right choice for your fishing needs!
Editorial Review: Our Opinion on the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast Baitrunner Reel
Product Type / Mono Line Capacity / Gear Ratio
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a baitrunner reel with a mono line capacity of 550 m / 0.35 mm. It features a gear ratio of 4.6:1.
Gear ratios in our comparison ranged from 4.5:1 to 5.6:1. The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast has a gear ratio of 4.6:1, placing it at the lower end of the range. This makes it well-suited for techniques like bottom fishing or trolling where slower retrieval speeds are often preferred.
Anglers seeking faster retrieval speeds might consider the Penn Fierce IV Spinning 6000 LL, which boasts the highest gear ratio in our comparison at 5.6:1.
Mono line capacities varied in our evaluation, ranging from 168 m / 0.35 mm to 550 m / 0.35 mm.
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast boasts the highest line capacity in our comparison at 550 m / 0.35 mm. This makes it an excellent choice for anglers targeting larger species or fishing in larger venues.
For those needing a more compact option with lower line capacity, we recommend the Daiwa Black Widow BR LT 5000-C (168 m / 0.35 mm) and the Daiwa GS BR LT 5000-C (168 m / 0.35 mm).
Number of Ball Bearings / Type of Brake / Drag Force
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast features 5 ball bearings, a front drag system, and a drag force of 44 lbs (20 kg).
The number of ball bearings in the baitrunner reels we analyzed ranged from 1 to 7. The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast has 5 ball bearings, providing smooth operation and good durability.
Drag forces among the baitrunner reels we compared varied from 13 lbs (5.9 kg) to 44 lbs (20 kg). The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast leads with the highest drag force in our comparison, reaching 44 lbs (20 kg). This makes it ideal for tackling larger and more powerful fish.
Weight / Material
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast weighs 720 g and is constructed from aluminum.
In our evaluation, baitrunner reel weights ranged from 315 g to 825 g. The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is among the heaviest baitrunner reels in our comparison. Due to its high weight, it is best suited for fishing methods where the rod and reel are placed in a rod holder.
Anglers seeking a lighter reel might consider the Daiwa Black Widow BR LT 5000-C, which weighs only 315 g. Another lightweight alternative is the Daiwa GS BR LT 5000-C, weighing in at just 330 g.
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast’s aluminum construction provides a robust and corrosion-resistant frame.
Saltwater Resistance / Baitrunner
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is not saltwater resistant but includes a baitrunner function.
While not specifically designed for saltwater use, the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast can still be used in saltwater environments with proper care and maintenance. Thorough rinsing with freshwater after each use is crucial to prevent saltwater corrosion.
Among the models in our comparison, the following offer saltwater resistance:
- Shimano Baitrunner 12000 OC
- Shimano Baitrunner 8000 D
- Penn Fierce IV Spinning 6000 LL
- Penn Slammer Live Liner 760L
- Okuma Avenger ABF 6000
The baitrunner function on the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a valuable feature for anglers targeting cautious fish. It allows the spool to spin freely when a fish takes the bait, preventing any resistance that might cause the fish to drop the bait.
A quick turn of the handle or engagement of the drag lever deactivates the baitrunner mode, engaging the main drag and providing the angler with control over the fight.
Baitrunner reels are particularly popular among carp anglers due to the skittish nature of carp. The baitrunner function significantly increases the chances of a successful hookset when targeting these wary fish.
Customer Reviews: Summary of Feedback from Product Owners
With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast earns high praise from 84 buyers.
Here’s what customers have to say about this baitrunner reel:
- Great reel. Caught several dorado with it and it handled it with ease. I used it as an alternative to a conventional reel for fly lining dorado and yellowfin and caught both with it.
- Large and very smooth reel. You have to be ok to manually handle the bail after you cast. Feels really solid in workmanship.
- The baitrunner works fine. The reel casts and retrieves well.
- It’s a great reel that can be made even better by replacing the felt drag washers with Carbontex fiber drag washers.
- Very good reels for big game fishing.
Anglers are impressed with the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast, highlighting its ability to handle big game fish with ease. One angler successfully landed several dorado, using it as an alternative to a conventional reel for fly lining.
Others praise its smooth operation and robust construction, noting the feeling of quality and solid workmanship. While the baitrunner function works effectively, some anglers suggest upgrading the drag washers for even better performance.
Overall, the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is considered a great reel for big game fishing, offering a reliable and powerful option for anglers targeting larger species.
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast features a sleek, understated design in a matte black finish with subtle silver accents. This gives it a modern and understated look, conveying a sense of functionality and performance.
This baitrunner reel takes the top spot in our comparison for both line capacity and drag force. With its exceptionally high line capacity and powerful drag, it’s even suitable for big game fishing and targeting the largest carp and catfish.
In addition, the Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is also ideal for surf fishing and extreme casting distances, as it features a special long-cast spool.
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a great choice for anglers who need a reel with a very high line capacity and powerful drag. It’s ideal for those targeting very large fish, whether in freshwater or saltwater, and those who enjoy surf fishing or casting long and extreme distances.
Pros and Cons of the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast Baitrunner Reel
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a highly-rated reel that’s known for its exceptional line capacity and powerful drag. It’s a great choice for anglers targeting larger species or those who enjoy surfcasting and long-distance casting.
While it’s a bit heavier and pricier than some other models, its performance makes it a top choice for serious anglers.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 80 customers (4.4 of 5) on Amazon
- Highest line capacity in our comparison
- Highest drag force in our comparison
- Longcast spool for extreme distances
- Also suitable for big game fishing
Cons
- High weight
- Higher price than less powerful reels
The Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is a popular choice among anglers, boasting an impressive 4.4 out of 5 star rating on Amazon based on feedback from over 80 customers.
This reel stands out for its exceptional line capacity, the highest in our comparison, making it ideal for anglers targeting larger species or fishing in vast venues.
It also boasts the most powerful drag in our lineup, providing the stopping power needed to handle even the toughest fighting fish. Built with a long-cast spool, it’s a dream for surfcasting and achieving extreme casting distances.
While it’s one of the heavier reels we reviewed and comes with a higher price tag compared to some less powerful models, its performance and features make it a top contender for serious anglers seeking a reel capable of handling big game fish and demanding fishing situations.
FAQ: The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast Baitrunner Reel
Is the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast only suitable for mono?
This reel offers anglers the flexibility to spool it with either monofilament or braided line, depending on their preference and fishing style.
Is this baitrunner reel suitable for surf fishing?
This reel is very well-suited for surf fishing because it has a very high line capacity and a long-cast spool.