The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Morning all, which would be the better reel for close range barbel fishing using 12lb line , ive got a choice between a wide drum speedia or a 3 1/2" allcocks c185 pin, im guessing there the same size but could be wrong are there any advantages from one over the other?

Can only vouch for the 815. At least that's my favorite for close range fishing and such an excellent reel. Would never give it away. But I reckon the speedia will do the job just the same. So go for what your eye likes most?

Probably the aerial better build quality.

the c815 is a much better build quality,at 3-3/4 in dia,also a 4.5 dia model called the sea aerial was produced in the c series

I have both reels but the Aerial is preferred.

Both have accounted for many barbel but I've sold my Spedia and kept my Aerial if that helps at all.

Thanks for your advice gentlemen looks like the aerial's the favourite, just on the retrieve aspect which would reel in the greater amount of line per turn of handle?

In order to slightly increase the amount when using the Aerials I have put cork arbours on them. As I am usually fishing close in I only have a maximum of about 50 yards on them. The river is only 10 - 15 yards wide!