SHIMANO ALIVIO REEL
Price: £ 16.99 to 18.99

The Alivio comes in three models, AL1000R (140yds 4lb, £ 16.99), AL3000R (170yds 8lb, £ 17.99) and AL4000R (200yds 10lb, £ 18.99) and each model has a tough, rigid XT7 body and rotor for long life and in-use stability. It has the noted Dyna Balance feature for smooth performance and lightness, plus a power roller to cut line twist and prolong the life of the main line.

The drag is multi-disc for micro-adjustment and, incredible for the price, it comes with a spare spool. The retrieve ratio is 4.6:1.

FISHINGmagic VERDICT

Go back just a few years and only the top of the range Shimano reels would have had all these features and would have set you back at least three times as much.

Okay, the reel has only one bearing and it doesn’t feel as smooth as some of the more expensive models, but come on, what do you expect for less than £ 20?

Perfect for the kid who’s saving his pocket money for his first reel, or a reel for any serious angler who doesn’t want to spend a fortune. There is no doubt about it, this reel is a great buy for the money.

Even better, you can get one for free by subscribing to Coarse Fisherman magazine!

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