SHIMANO VANFORD FIXED-SPOOL

RRP: £179.99 - £199.99

The Vanford may be the entrylevel saltwater and freshwater front-drag reel in the Magnumlite Series,but it is packed with features and designed for finesse and sensitive fishing.

A front-drag reel available in seven sizes from 500 to 5000, with the biggest capable of holding 175 metres of 0.35mm line, it offers precise lure control thanks to its rotor and gearing.

Being fitted with Magnumlite (MGL) rotor design, it means the line roller and bale-arm are on opposite sides, not the same side, to improve balance. With a lightweight line roller, bale and optimum rotor thickness, it is said to give a 14 per cent saving in rotation inertia, which increases sensitivity. Previously symmetrical, the rotor is now asymmetrical.

The Hagane gear, produced by cold forging technology, and X-Ship precision gearing deliver smoothness, strength, lightness and plenty of power. The pinion gear, which is supported by two ARB roller bearings, is close to the centre line of the drive gear, where more power is transferred from the handle to the rotor. Its roller clutch, the pivotal point for water resistance, has a triple lip structure. The first lip prevents water from entering between the rotor and body. Grease between the second and third lips, where it makes contact with the rotor collar at the upper part of the roller clutch, not only stops water from entering but also minimises friction giving it exceptional water resistance from waves and spray. Shimano’s AR-C spool has an angled lip to enable the line to leave the holder with less friction and in smaller coils resulting in longer, accurate casts. ARC spools are proven to reduce backlash and wind knots when using braid. Finally, the ARB bearings are highly resistant to corrosion, giving improved protection against sand and salt.

■ Available from Uttings, visit: www.uttings.co.uk