The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

A quick question if I may? I'm looking at which reel to try from my c0llection when carp fishing, I'm currently using a Supreme and have even tried a Surfcast, but that's a bit on the large size. Rods that I use are an Edgar Sealey Carpmaster and an unamed 10' cane. Any tips/assistance appreciated.

There's a website dedicated to K. P. Morritt's Intrepid reels maintained by a TFF member :-

http://www.intrepidreel.com/home.html

As you'll see, the 'Elite' is listed as the second most popular reel by this maker, and I do use them.

I'd suggest that the best reel for carp angling would be the 'Continental,' which boasted "Precision cut helical gearing giving extremely smooth transmission. Optional wind. Spare spool and a set of collars for varying line sizes with a capacity of 200 yards of 12lb BS."

As you can see from this pair of reels I have they were available in green or black, and the 'collars' mentioned above can be seen which alter the diameter of the arbour meaning that shorter lengths of line can be utilised (though it has to be said that they have usually been lost in the mists of the past, and are hard to find these days). The 'flyer' turns anti-clockwise, like a Mitchell, and as far as I'm aware they are only found in a left hand version (ie. the handle is on the left hand side ... so no right hand wind).



They were introduced in May, 1959.

This advertisement is taken from the Fishing Gazette in September, 1959, and the illustration of a pike seems to say that the 'Continental' was aimed at larger fish.

Without no hesitation the famous Mitchell 300 or 410

Thames Mudlarker wrote:Without no hesitation the famous Mitchell 300 or 410

That's not an intrepid.

I have to agree with AC. The continental is probably their finest effort and I think their best looking. You could also try the Diplomat, it comes with the same spool collars, again the one I have hasn't got them. Looks very of it's time, but I've caught a carp on my examples one and only trip to the bank; not a reflection on the reel, just the number I have and want to use.

Paul D wrote:

Thames Mudlarker wrote:Without no hesitation the famous Mitchell 300 or 410

That's not an intrepid.

oh yea I thought it was best overall carp reel, should of read the headline properly ....

I know some chaps have got on Ok with their Elites but mine sort of melted playing a lively Irish pike, so it may be wise to find out which version is the best and if there are any modifications to make to ensure it's working at its best. Alternatively avoid the Elite altogether.

My right-hand wind Continental!

Thank you all for your advice, I think I need to find a pair of left-hand Continentals, can't get on with right-hand wind reels! I do use an Elite for float fishing, but it doesn't feel up to the job for heavier lines.