Big Pit Reels
Big Pit Reels offer distance casting and extra cranking power. Our Big Pit Reels; Daiwa, Fox, TFG, Shimano Big Pit Reels and more…
Do all Big Pit Reels have Baitrunners? ~ NO. Many big pit reels come with a secondary baitrunner clutch BUT not all. Several models rely on just one clutch such as the TFG Front Runner (watch this Video Clip for further explanation and how to use). Its important to be aware of this before buying a big pit reel. We state under individual models whether they have a baitrunner / freespool mechanism.
When/Why should I use a Big Pit Reel?
Shimano Big Pit Reels
Shimano build some of the highest quality big pit reels, combining solid construction with the latest technology. They create some of the most durable big pit reels on the market, that won’t let you down when called into duty! One of the best is the legendary Shimano Aero Technium Reel
Big Pit / Baitrunner
Stunning in terms of looks and function, another Shimano masterpiece with several advanced technological features and baitrunner functionality…
- 525yrds of 12lb line
- 11 BBs
- Gear Ratio 4.3:1
- Cold forged spool
- Unbelievable Distance Casting!
Only £519.99
| Shimano Power Aero XT-A Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I only buy Shimano Carp Reels and this Aero XT-A summarises why!” (Matt, Leeds)
More reviews coming soon…
Big Pit/ Baitrunner
Shimano Big Pit Reels are known for their reliability and superb engineering making long distance casting easy, combined with the legendary Shimano baitrunner drag system…
- Gear Ratio: 4:4:1
- 460 yrds of 12lb line
- 7 BBs
- 2 Aluminium spools cold forged & anodized
- Wooden Torpedo handle grip
RRP: £399.99 Only £350
| Shimano Big Baitrunner LC Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I’ve had this reel for several years, and the continued release of the LC model is testimony to it’s brilliance” (Mcarthy, Bristol)
More reviews coming soon…
Big Pit / Baitrunner
Shimano big pit reels always deliver great casting and line lay, however they often out do their competitors with smoother baitrunner functionality and this reel is evident of that. With a titanium power roller this reel puts you fully in control when it comes to battling big fish…
- 349 metres of 12lb line (5500 Model)
- 5 BBs
- Gear Ratio: 4:6:1
- Aero wrap line lay system
- Distance Casting Spool
RRP: £220 Only £179.99
| Shimano Ultegra XT-B 5500 Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“Great reel, you know what your getting when you buy Shimano!” (James, Cambs)
More reviews coming soon…
Baitrunner / Big Pit
Shimano baitrunner reels have the versatility for use on big gravel pits to small canals and this Shimano baitrunner proves that. With ‘big pit’ style spool capacity matched with a compact, lightweight build and full of features, this little number is a a real favourite at CFR.
- 315 yrds of 12lb line
- 5 BBs!
- Gear Ratio: 5:3:1
- Baitrunner Spool II
RRP: 159.99 Only £129.99
| Shimano Baitrunner XT-RA Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I’ve only had the reel a couple of months but it feels solid, baitrunner works well and it hasn’t let me down…great intermediate range reel” (Harry, Fulham)
Baitrunner / Big Pit
Available in three sizes ( 6000, 8000, and 10000), Shimano’s baitrunner reels have taken another stride forward with the XT RA, successor of the Aero GTE reels…
- 320 yrds of 12lb line (8000 Model)
- 5 BBs
- Gear Ratio: 4:6:1
- Diecast gear
- XT-7 rotor & body
- Cold forged spools
RRP: 124.99 Only £114.99
| Shimano Biomaster XT-B Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“This reel has served me well over the years” (Matthew, Peterborough)
“Has worked flawlessly for several years now!”(Karen, Cheshire)
Baitrunner / Big Pit
A great baitrunner from the Shimano Big Pit Reels collection, that has earned its place in many an anglers tacklebox, with superlative line lay, super cranking power, and all the advanced features ones come to expect from Shimano reels…
- 430 yrds of 12lb line (10000 Model)
- 3 A-RB BBs
- Gear Ratio: 4:6:1
- Superb line-lay
- Cold Forged Aluminium spool
RRP: 139.99 Only £114.99
| Shimano Baitrunner ST Carp Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“The 10000 model ticks all the boxes for me, on both small and large venues” (Matt, Cambs)
“Terrific reel considering it as at the lower end of Shimano big pit reel models ” (Luke, Notts)
Baitrunner / Big Pit
A feature packed reel for a great price, available in two sizes, the 6000, and the 10000 which places it in the big pit reels class, both models with the masterful and revolutionary shimano baitrunner system…
- 430 yrds of 12lb line (10000 Model)
- 5 BBs
- Gear Ratio: 4:6:1
- Superb line-lay
Only £54.99
TFG are a relatively new manufacturer of fishing reels , but they are already making a reputation with their big pit carp reels range. Their range of big pit reels, starts at simply incredible prices ranging from as low as £35, representing superb value for money. However we have had a range of reviews sent in, regarding different models, which we reccomend reading before making a decision…
| TF Gear V8 Distance Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“quality big pit carp reels are hard to find for a decent price, this is the best value I’ve found ” (Nic, Bury)
“superb value for money! Very happy” (John, Essex)
“terrific, I’m thinking of getting a full set” (John, Newark)
“not the best reel on the market, but its solidly put together and has served more than its purpose” (Nick, Richmond)
“nice reel, super price” (Rory, Sheff)
“considering the spec I was slightly disapointed by the performance” (Mark, Leeds)
“there aren’t many better reels on the market for this price, I payed £100 for mine and its ok, for £60 its a bargain”(Jason, London)
“Good enough for £60 but would advise spending a further £20 and looking at the Shimano/Daiwa big pit reels in this price range” (James, London)
Big Pit
One of the best value big pit reels on the market with incredible features for the small price tag, comes in three models…
- 740 yrds of 15lb line (10000 Model)
- 13 BBs
- Gear ratio 4.1:1
- Precision engineered power gears
- Incredible Distance Casting!
RRP: 99.99 Only £49.99
| TF Gear Front Runner Spool | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“solid reel and a great looker as well” (Phil, London)
“impressive line lay and retrieve, unexpected for the price”(Lorn, East Midlands)
Big Pit
Another example from TFG’s big pit carp reels range that shows why they are growing in reputation; available in two models and boasting terrific casting and line lay ability, along with reinforced gears and a super cranking gear ratio…
- 450yrds of 12lb line (12000 Model)
- 10+1 BBs
- Gear Ratio 4.8:1
- Precision line lay
- Superb Distance Casting!
RRP: 94.99 Only £64.99
| TFGear Force 8 GT Spool Carp Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I was impressed with the line lay and drag on this reel, excellent value for money” (Conner, Wisbech)
More reviews coming soon…
Baitrunner Carp Reel
A powerful and reliable big pit baitrunner reel from TF Gear available in two model sizes. Stunning looks and more features than you’d expect for this amount of money including 10 Ball bearings….
- 360 yrds of 10lb line
- 10 BBs!
- Gear Ratio: 5:5:1
- Long cast spool
RRP: 59.99 Only £44.99
| TF Gear Max Power Big Pit Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“exceptional value for money, one of the best big pit reels I’ve found for under £30″ (Paul, Peterborough)
“Brought a pair of these reels and the quality its absolutely shocking, buy cheap then buy twice. I am really disapointed with them. The Arm doesn’t snap back into place so i think they will become spod and marker reels and i won’t be such a bank tramp when buying new replacements” (Ed Barrell, Leamington Spa)
“Dont listen to people who say this reel is shocking.great reel for the price.brilliant.had 2 30s and a 43 on these not long got them.perfect for the angler who hasnt got alot of money.tight lines” (Adam)
More reviews coming soon…
Big Pit
Another very affordable reel from TF Gear, suitable for use as a spod reel and as general big pit carp reels
- 450yrds of 12lb line
- 13 BBs
- Gear Ratio 4.1:1
- Precision engineered gears
- Super Distance Casting!
RRP: 49.99 Only £34.99
Daiwa Big Pit Reels/Baitrunners
Daiwa big pit reels set the benchmark for many other manufacturers. The most popular Daiwa big pit reels include the Infinity and Tournament ranges, which come in various models and are highly regarded as some of the best big pit carp reels on the market today. The Daiwa Emblem Spod Reel is another favourite Daiwa big pit, and is a great example of the casting and retrieve ratio these reels are capable of. With their impressive design and incredible functionality it’s no surprise that Daiwa big pit reels adorn many a professionals’ rod.
| Daiwa Tournament Basiair Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“one of the best reels I’ve ever used in my 40 year fishing career, has left me wanting a second! I’d have three if they weren’t £600!” (Richard, Fens)
“My biggest single fishing investment has now payed off with my biggest ever fish!” (Graeme, Surrey)
Big Pit / Baitrunner
Daiwa big pit reels, particularly the Tournament range, set a standard all others aspire to. At the very top of that range is the superlative Basiair. Lighter than ever at only 445 grams, with an awesome spec, the Daiwa Basiair Big Pit Reel rockets its way into our top three big pit reels…
- Air metal alloy body
- 8 Ball Bearings
- 45 mm super long double anodised spool
- QD Drag engagement
- Zaion rotar
- Air bail
- Infinite Anti-reverse
RRP: £699.99 Only £599.99
| Daiwa Tournament Basia QDX Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“for me, Daiwa have always been ahead of the game in terms of top end tackle, and this is an example why. Although it is notably more expensive then many of its competitiors, you really do get what you pay for and that’s why people continue to buy these high end Daiwa products, it’s not until you use and feel this reel that you realise what all that money is going into!” (Matt, Peterborough)
Big Pit / Baitrunner
Daiwa reels are the first choice for many anglers, with incredible range and retrieve this Daiwa big pit reel proves why, another beauty from Daiwa…
- Capacity: 240m of 12lb line
- Stainless steel air bail & magnesium alloy body
- QD Drag engagement
- 7 BBs
- 2 line clips (high impact)
- Infinite Anti-reverse
RRP: £535 Only £455
| Daiwa Tournament Basia Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“super reel, little on the expensive side but I’d strongly reccomend” (John, Hampshire)
“Absolutely loving this reel at the moment. I recently fished some lakes where I live, and had the biggest overall catch from anyone that week. Despite my obvious angling skills, I have to commend these reels, enabling enormous distance on the cast and quality play with the fish with a nice clutch mechanism…am very pleased! “(Eugene, Somerset)
Big Pit / Baitrunner
The slightly older generation of the Daiwa Basia big pit reels range still brings with it the magic at a lower price tag. The incredible line lay and casting keeps these Daiwa Carp Reels in the executive tackle box…
- Capacity: 200m of 12lb line
- Magnesium alloy body
- 14 BBs
- Isotope holes on spool skirt
- Gear Ratio: 4:1:1
RRP: £525 Only £399.99
| Daiwa Emblem Spod Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I think its fair to say that there aren’t many better spod reels out there, does exactly what it says on the tin with accuracy” (DMoss, Leeds)
Spod Reel
A dedicated spodding reel from the Daiwa big pit reels collection, delivering over 120cm of line on every crank of the handle, packed with extra features to make the task of spodding quick and easy…
- 280 metres of 15lb line
- ABS aluminium spools
- 4 BBs
- Gear Ratio 5.1:1
- Twist buster
- Twin Tournament Line clips
RRP: 139.99 Only £114.99
| Daiwa Windcast S Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“This reel has allowed me to reach distances on the cast I didn’t think was possible, a really super caster” (Dan, Brighton)
More reviews coming soon…
Big Pit
Daiwa big pits continually impress with their advanced casting, superlative line lay, and sound functionality throughout, this reel is available in 2 sizes, along with a third model (the 5000LD) for extreme distance casting holding 530 metres of 15lb line!
- 440 metres of 15lb line (5500 Model)
- 4 BBs
- Gear Ratio: 4:9:1
- Lifetime® Bail Spring and Line guard
- Incredible Distance Casting
RRP: £99.99 Only £89.99
| Daiwa Emcast Evo Carp Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“The Emcast is the only Daiwa reel I have (previously been a Shimano man) its seriously making me consider switching loyalties!” (Mcavoy, Newcastle)
Big Pit
One of the cheaper options in the Daiwa big pit reels range but packed with quality features and the functionality you’d expect from any Daiwa carp reel…
- 280yrds of 17lb line (5000 Model)
- 7+1 BBs
- Gear Ratio 4.6:1
- Twist buster
- Aluminium Spool +spare aluminium spool!
MRP: 89.99 Only £64.99
| Fox Stratos Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I have three Fox Stratos Reels now and none of them have ever let me down, well done Fox! ” (Gustave, London)
“slightly let down with the build of the 4000, the 10000 is proving itself to be be better reel” (Luke, Peterborough)
More reviews coming soon…
Baitrunner / Big Pit
A powerhouse reel from Fox. With one of the largest spools in the Fox reel range, and baitrunner function, the Stratos 10000 makes a fantastic big pit reel…
- 300 metres of 12lb line
- 16 BBs!
- Line protecting spring loaded casting clip
- Long Cast Spool
RRP: 129.99 Only £129.99
| Okuma Powerliner Carp Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“This reel provides excellent casting and ability to play fish” (Rupert, Sussex)
“Just upgraded to this from the okuma baitfeeder opti-drag and you can tell it’s a better reel, but I wud reccomend both”(Benji, Leicester)
Okuma baitrunner / big pit
Okuma reels have continued to provide reliability at a budget price, but this reel does more than that. As the name suggests this big pit really packs a punch. Super casting ability, fantastic line lay, and a noticeable sense of control combines to produce one of the best Okuma reels yet at an incredible price…
- Gear Ratio: 5:8:1
- 430 yrds of 15lb line (Model 865)
- 7+1 BBs
- Patented Elliptical Oscillation system
- Aluminium spool
MRP: £74.99 Only £49.99
| Okuma Max 4 Big Pit Carp Reel | |
|---|---|
| Functionality | |
| Design | |
| Durability | |
| Value/Cost | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
“I love the look of this reel on my rod, makes me feel like a proper stalking angler! Great functionaility too!” (Scott, London)
More reviews coming soon…
Big Pit
The latest from the Okuma big pit reels selection; the Max 4 Big Pit, has proved itself bigger and better than its previous generations, exceeding expectations again with incredible line lay, great casting, a baitrunner conversion spool, and topped off with a fantastic visual 3D Camo design…
- Max4 3D camouflage
- 240 metres of .40mm line
- 6+1 BBs!
- Corrosion resistant Titan graphite construction
- Strong & lightweight bladebody design
MRP: £79.99 Only £69.99
Big Pit Carp Reels – The When & the Why?
When fishing a large fishery or a big pit venue, where long distance casting is required, you need a reel that will match the job; this has resulted in the evolvement of Big Pit Reels.
Originally big pits were designed for sea fishing, specifically for beach casting in order to launch a bait over the initial sea surf, which other reels couldn’t achieve because they didn’t have the casting power. They are now widely used in coarse angling, particularly carp fishing and many models are now labelled as big pit carp reels. Their growing popularity has lead to constant development by several manufacturers resulting in a range of big pit reels. Some of the best have been built by Daiwa but Shimano Big Pit Reels have also gained a great reputation, along with several other manufacturers.
Big Pit Reels have huge capacity spools combined with extra cranking power, often with a secondary baitrunner clutch. This means they can cast unparalleled distances, and provide greater control and power over stronger fighting fish, making big pit reels ideal for larger venues and specimen fishing. They can also be used as effective Spod Reels and for marker float work.
Essentially big pit reels are best used on large venues, where casts of over 100 yards are required, and when you are targeting larger specimen fish. This takes advantage of the casting ability, and the extra control and power that big pit reels provide.
Big pit reels can vary hugely in price. As CFR develops we hope to incorporate second-hand big pit carp reels into our Used and Old Fishing Reels section, along with other used fishing tackle, to allow anglers to buy and sell fishing equipment.




