Fixed spool for rough ground
- Thread starter lbirdman
- Start date
sean start
Well-known member
The shimano your on about is the xsc model I would think. They do have other newer models out now but unsure what they are like. If I was you I'd personally go for a Penn Spinfisher or a Penn battle 2, especially if it is going to be used in the rough
bushwacker
Well-known member
Penn slammer.
Penn slammer.
the above fixed spool due out now seen video on youtube not sure of price
but looks like the dogs cream crackers 
they do all size models 
Penn slammer.
the above fixed spool due out now seen video on youtube not sure of price
but looks like the dogs cream crackers they do all size models All of the Shimano xsd, xsb, xtb (T=baitrunner drag addition), xsb (standard drag addition), are basically the same reel but with some differences (see drag difference just mentioned). I'd ignore the xsd and spend the extra £30 for the xsc or b which has the lighter c14 material variant. The xtb is the cheapest of the variants with c14 material but the only difference is this variant has the 'baitrunner' drag system which is perfectly appropriate for sea fishing.
The xsd is the newer and cheaper reel but it is not c14+ material however it is positioned for the sea angler as the recent marketing has made clear. These are good casting reels and if looked after will last. Yes, they do flex but don't be scared of this. My advice go with a c14+ 14000 size real (xtb) and avoid the xsd as for the extra money (£30) you get better material and it is's lighter.
I have heard the xsb has sal****er 'proofed' bearings but think is is nonsense as none of the shimanos in this range are water resistant never mind water proof.
Penn Battle 2 has major issues with the spool and is a heavy reel. Penn SF 7500lc has better water resistance but is again more problematic spool wise for braid and mono in terms of capacity.
Are you using braid or mono or both? as the Shimano range come with 3 spools with plastic inserts to change the effective 'size' of the reel eg 10000.
Last edited:
lbirdman
Well-known member
Thanks for that wood22 not using either at the moment , saltist and mono but was wanting to try go braid with the fixed spool this winter after reading the benefits. so just getting as much info as a can first . Spoke to lads that recon the Shimano ain't up to the rough stuff and is more for beach and mixed ground . Was thinking about the penn slammer 3 , watched a video on YouTube and looks good
Anyfish anywhere tourney Grand Prix - saltist 30
Anyfish anywhere tourney Grand Prix - saltist 30
sean start
Well-known member
Never had any issues with my spin fisher and I know lads with the battle 2 who haven't had issues either.
Good to see you at the weigh-on today mate.
I've updated the above as got the xsd, xtb, xsb above - so confusing with all the variants.
Note that 'b' may now be available alongside 'c' as this marks the new range/iteration/development of the reel so if you see a 'xtc' or 'xsc' assume this is a newer version.
lbirdman
Well-known member
Aye m8 was good , just hope there is better bags / a bag for me next comp ha.
Am going to have a look this week and buy one m8. Glad a spoke to you about them cleared a few issues up a had about Shimano but all is good .
Thanks for that wood22 not using either at the moment , saltist and mono but was wanting to try go braid with the fixed spool this winter after reading the benefits. so just getting as much info as a can first . Spoke to lads that recon the Shimano ain't up to the rough stuff and is more for beach and mixed ground . Was thinking about the penn slammer 3 , watched a video on YouTube and looks good
Anyfish anywhere tourney Grand Prix - saltist 30
Then you'll need the cannon release to save slicing your finger end off. It's also damn good and makes casting a doddle with maximum distance.
