Shimano Citica 200D Baitcaster

Ever the one for trying out different ways of fishing I decided to have a go with a baitcaster and settled for the Shimano Citica 200D. I was not dissapointed in the reel with its list of features and finish. What suprised me was its size wich is small and compact. Even so it swallowed huge amounts of the braid I use with ease. The reel itself is super smooth and with the Shimano variable brake system was a pleasure to use. Tempted to try and gain a little extra distance I turned this system right back. The difference was negligible as extra control had to be maintained with my thumb to prevent the multipliers curse, the backlash and birds nest tangle that ultimatly follows.The quickfire clutch bar casting system is a pleasure to use re-engaging the spool with a simple turn of the handle.It has quite a fast rate of retrieve and the dartanium drag system easily adjusted with the star wheel which has an audible click as a new setting is made. It is smooth under pressure again making it easy to play a hard fighting fish. It is not a reel for the beginner though as even with all its features it still needs care in use as my son found out when he had a go and ended up with a herons nest of braided line. Notwithstanding this he still managed to fish with it. Quite a complicated reel and I would limit my maintainance to cleaning and lubrication. Anything else should be left for a service by an approved agent. This aside the reel is reasonably priced (£65) for its features and certainly a valuable part of my tackle bag