Shimano Baitrunner DL

How well is it built?

The words Shimano and Baitrunners go together like two peas in a pod and the DL series are extremely popular amongst carp and coarse anglers for good reason. The build quality at this price point is spot on.

As with most of Shimano's Baitrunners, the DL is a good-looking reel with subtle carpy cosmetics that give it a professional and attractive appearance. The body and frame are made from XT-7 graphite which makes it both durable yet lightweight at 595g.

The handle is made from cold-forged aluminium and all models feature a double handle which I like. The reel is equipped with three stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing, which to be honest is fine and ensures smooth operation.

Shimano includes a spare graphite spool as standard which is generous at this price. If I were to be really picky, there are other models with more bearings, but at this price point the DL is another one of Shimano's triumphs.

How well does it cast and retrieve?

Casting performance is very good on the DL Baitrunner, as is the smooth retrieve. The Varispeed oscillation system ensures even line lay that reduces tangles and improves casting performance as a result.

This is further helped by the AR-C line management system, the Dyna-Balance system, the Super Stopper II and Power Roller features.

In practical terms, the line lay is optimised and line twist is minimised, contributing to efficient casting that can gain those precious extra few yards where needed. The 4.6:1 gear ratio and 87cm retrieve per crank are standard for this class.

There is nothing exceptional about the raw numbers, but everything works together smoothly. For fishing at typical UK stillwater ranges of 40 to 80 yards, the DL handles the job without any complaints. It is not a distance reel, but it was never designed to be one.

How useful is the drag system?

I have been using Shimano Baitrunners since day dot and I can honestly say I have never experienced any issue with the clutch or drag system on any of the models I have used. The DL is no exception.

The Baitrunner function is user-friendly and super smooth, as is the rear drag system. This reliability works alongside the Super Stopper and Power Roller features ensuring everything works like clockwork when called upon.

The rear drag positioning is genuinely unusual for a baitrunner and gives you easier access to micro-adjustments while playing a fish. 6kg of maximum drag is modest but more than enough for UK stillwater carp.

The one trade-off of the rear layout is that the drag knob is smaller than a front drag adjuster. Some anglers find it harder to grip with cold or wet hands.

Is it good value for money?

Scoring a very credible 8.5 on value for money, the DL range of Baitrunners offer a high quality reel packed full of features at a price point that pitches it at beginners as well as more experienced anglers.

Compared to the budget Baitrunner ST , the DL adds two extra bearings and a spare spool for £20 more. With all of this in one package, it is plain to see why this reel is one of the most popular Baitrunners on the market today.

For anglers who want Shimano reliability without the premium price of the CI4+ range, the DL is the sensible middle ground.