Shimano Bait Runner 8000D Opinions

[Relentless Charters]

Good Morning,

Getting ready for some new bass rods for the boat and was looking at the Shimano Bait Runner 8000D spinning reels. Anyone here been using them and what is your opinion of the, so far. Are the simple to maintain and looking for some insight before picking up five.

Thanks,

Dave

[SplitShot]

I've been using a 6000D for Spring Livelining and it's worked out Great! No problems at all.

[CancunPete]

I have been using them for Sailfish in Cancun......Should be good enough for most any fish you will catch in our area. Pete

[Gerry Zagorski]

I've been using one for 3 seasons now but just occasionally since I mostly fish conventionals. I use it for snagging, live lining and jigging. It's seems to be a much better reel then the 3500 and 4500 bait runners I've owned in the past. Those reels were very problematic and always in need of some sort of repair.

The only issue I've had so far with the 8000D is the reel handle knob seems to be very tight and I have to lubricate constantly to keep it spinning freely. I'm wondering if that is a design issue or maybe I bumped/bent the handle knob or something.

I've been hearing good things about the Penn Battles so they might be worth a look too but no bait runner, which for me is important, especially if your are live lining or dead sticking frequently.

[Pauls1976]

I have a pair of 6000D's I use mostly for live lining but I will use it as a bluefish rod while sharking, got plenty of blue Sharks on them and most recently I used them for popping Yellowfin to 80-90lbs in Panama this past February. I haven't had any issues with them yet.

[Relentless Charters]

Thanks for the comments, starting to think they might be a little big and should go with the 6000 or even a bit smaller. Have to make my decision real soon.

Dave

[mlp1986]

Overall size, the 8000 is not much larger than the 6000, but does have more line capacity. I've held them both side by side after I ordered my 6000. After comparing the two I had wished I ordered the 8000, theyre almost identical in overall size. Otherwise I love the reel, its a must for my spring bass fishing.

[Walleyed]

Did a side-by-side comparision today, since I needed to replace the Okuma Avenger that crapped out last season.

The 8000 is just marginally larger in size than the 6000, bigger spool, stronger drag. For a $10 difference in price, I bought the 8000D today at a local non-sponsor.

[Relentless Charters]

Both the 6000 and 8000 sound great for live lining and vertical jigging for striped bass. I was hoping a reel that could also be used for winter flounder. It may be a bit big for winter flounder but matched to the right light rod, could work. Trying not to have ten rods on every combo trip. Once again, appreciate the replies.