Baitrunner Style Fishing Reels For Sale
Baitrunner reels stand out for their specialised engineering, allowing anglers to step away from a fishing rod after casting and not worry as much about a missed hookset. The reel spool continues spinning freely when a fish takes the bait, giving it time to swallow the hook before the angler engages the reel to set the hook.
This innovative "bite and run" function makes baitrunner reels an asset for anglers using multiple rods on boats, beaches, rocks and more.
While Shimano's Baitrunner is the original and leading baitfeeding reel on the Australian market, other brands like Daiwa and Penn offer similar reels under names like Live Liner, Free Swimmer and Bite N Run.
Shimano owns the Baitrunner name trademark, and their reels remain highly regarded for their smooth performance and advanced technology. However, baitfeeding technology is now widely available, giving anglers options and flexibility across several excellent fishing reel brands.
The functionality of the drag systems and the smooth performance of bait runner reels have made them a popular choice for experienced anglers for decades. Yet, with the range of available, affordable models now on the Australian market, novice fishermen can also capitalise on the versatility of baitrunners to target snapper, bream, whiting and more.
Choosing the Right Size Baitrunner Fishing Reel
When selecting a baitrunner reel, the ideal size depends on your usual fishing environment and target species. For light estuary and inshore fishing or chasing bream and flathead in lakes, a 2500-4000 size reel is the ideal choice.
When targeting larger species from the rocks, beach or offshore, higher-capacity baitrunner reels from 6000 size and upwards can be beneficial. The increased line capacity provides better insurance against long, powerful runs by hard-fighting fish. More robust gears and drag systems allow anglers to apply more stopping power when needed.
Remember that you can fine-tune the drag settings on any quality baitrunner reel. Set the baitrunner drag light enough that a fish can easily take line without resistance. Then, you can crank up the main gear drag for expert control once you engage the reel into fighting mode. Test different settings to find the best balance of smooth runs and power.
Baitrunner Reels FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about baitrunner fishing reels:
What are the key benefits of a baitrunner reel?
The free spool "bite and run" function lets fish take the bait without feeling pressure, resulting in more hookups. Baitrunners also allow anglers to attend multiple rods.
When should I use the baitrunner function vs the normal reel function?
Let a fish run freely after taking the bait, then engage the reel to set the hook. Fight the fish using the normal reel function.
How do I set the baitrunner drag correctly?
Adjust the baitrunner drag lightly at first. Tighten just enough that the spool doesn't overrun when a fish takes line.
Why are baitrunner reels good for boat fishing?
Baitrunner reels shine for boat fishing thanks to their free spool system. The free spool gives wary species time to pick baits lightly without feeling resistance. This allows fish such as snapper and other cautious reef-dwelling fish to gain confidence and draw baits further into their mouth before you set the hook. Baitrunner fishing reels give fish a natural biting experience.
SHOP OUR BAITRUNNER REEL RANGE
Our wide selection of baitrunner reels for sale at the fishing tackle shop gives you access to this specialised fishing gear in a range of basic through to pro models. Whether an avid boat angler or a weekend lake fisher, experience the next level of bait fishing control with a Baitrunner fishing reel.
