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GOOD GEAR: Shimano Sienna FE Spinning Reel


Sienna spin reels have been part and parcel of the Shimano line-up for well over a dozen years now, and the latest incarnation certainly raises the standard when it comes to entry-level performance. The compact XGT-7 body has a changed centre of gravity, which makes them comfortable for newcomers to fishing to use, while one ball bearing and one roller bearing combine with Dyna-Balance to make winding the Sienna delightfully smooth.

There are three general purpose sizes: 1000, 2500 and 4000, which cover all manner of light line situations, from bait fishing to squidgy soft plastic and hard body lure casting for the likes of barra. Gear ratios in the 1000 FE and the 2500 FE are 5:1, while the 4000 FE is slightly faster at 5.2:1. They punch out 4kg drag and the AR-C die-cast aluminium spools hold a generous amount of monofilament and a lot more braid. So if you’re just starting out in fishing or the kids are showing some interest that requires something more sophisticated than just a basic handline, check out the new Sienna FE range.

Alex Julius used this new entry-level reel on Territory barra, and explains its features on the water.


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