Unless you are absolutely set on using a multi, I wouldn't.
These days, they have no advantage over a decent fixed spool reel. They are more difficult to cast and have a slower retrieve For that budget you can get a pair of these or similar

Shimano Ultegra CI4+ XSC Reel

Key Features Family Type: Surf Models: 14000 Bearings: 5 S A-RB + 1 RB Line lay: 2 Speed, Aero Wrap II, Super Slow 5 Extra spool: Yes Handle: Single machined aluminium Body material: CI4+ Spool material: Cold forged aluminium Waterproof drag: Yes

www.anglingdirect.co.uk

 

Wasn’t set on multiplier’s but many fisherman I see using them say they are better for distance casting . Now I’m no monster caster but can hit 150 yards consistently with my small daiwa 5000t reels with a 4oz lead with bait when pike fishing . Just thinking about improving distance

 

Many years ago ,they were better for distance as fixed spools did not hold enough line but with the latest long spools and twin speed line lay, there is no disadvantage in this area.
Out of interest, is that a measured 150 yards or estimated? There are not too many anglers that can put a bait out over 125m.

 

150 yards estimate as the water I fish i can almost hit the bank on the opposite side which 180 yards . Didn’t think that was much to shout about as I have seen the carp boys on other waters cast massive distances that I could only dream of

 

You could invest in some better F/S reels? you have a few options! cheaper new or higher end used reels top end are Aero Techniums 100.1 line lay uber smooth reels and provided been looked after last a long time(Check for slop/play and smooth)ive a pair both run on braid .21 ish for in general lighter fishing 120-150g leads often plain when plaice/sole fishing on my Italcanna Dynamis's (3 piece 14ft ish)then 100.1 line wrap/lay gives good distance with lighter leads and other pair have are the Shimano Power Aeros there 50.1 cast good also but if using thicker line won't bunch like a high count line lay can do as thick line can't fit in gap so will ride up over other coils but for most uses it isn't an issue.
Some times either reel come up for right price!
The new mid Ultegra looks ok as say's Hagane gear!.

For Multiplier reels i'd say Fathom 12 all day and every day just easy to get on with strong good gear ratio mag brakes work takes enough line.
I only take my 15's if need heavier line etc as there on 20lb odd.

If you want distance(Not sure what type of casting style you use?)Learn the Off the Ground pretty easy/safe as not swinging gear around in the air! then progress onwards.

Only downsides with the 5000T is line lay plus takes less line(there is a kit that you change main shaft etc which gives a higher count line lay Tacklebox Dartford has/had them plus maybe some other main Carpy shops will get them?

With FS decent width of spool good line lay and smooth line with a decent casting style will reward good distances and the better the Technique the less the other draw backs matter till reach a pinnacle then everything item will matter but in general that's for fieldwork as lump a rig and bait on end of line and distances drop!

Multipliers are nice as you have to work more on your casting style ie smoother but will reward with a satisfying cast as just something so nice when you hit a cast right.
But it's also horses for courses! fish some places an FS with stronger line will trump like places like Bristol Channel fishing out on the reefs where you have one chance to get gear up off bottom and away or snagged often.

You can always get a multi and go play on the field or beach even with just a plain lead but just remember fallout range!

 

Thanks for the advise . My casting style is like what most of the carp boys do so not need to improve that with beach fishing and larger leads and bait .

Just been browsing around and found the Shimano power aero xib on sale for £270 which looks like a nice fix spool reel . does anyone have any first hand experience with this one as for the money its specs look decent .

 

Thanks for the advise . My casting style is like what most of the carp boys do so not need to improve that with beach fishing and larger leads and bait .

Just been browsing around and found the Shimano power aero xib on sale for £270 which looks like a nice fix spool reel . does anyone have any first hand experience with this one as for the money its specs look decent .

Yep ones said about above a lot of bang for your buck so to speak have a pair of them XSB/XTB are same/similar except carp black on T. Solid frame as all alloy.
If get them they come with reducers 10k and 6k sizes i can check for you can't remember which size used? but loads perfectly with around 300m think was 6000.

 

My local shop has them in stock going to take a look tomorrow if I get time as like you said they seem good bang for the buck . No spare spools as I like to change between braid and mono depending on conditions so if I buy them I’ll have to pick some up at a later date

 

Should have come with spare spool for each reel!

Also there interchangeable all the larger reels with the flat front/low knob reels fit each other just that the lower ranges have clutches held in by circlip then screws on next and top end has four screws and ice drag washers.(White things)

Even the large baitrunners fit.
Any issues give us a shout as know pretty well what fits what as Shimano etc give you the run around!
As on my Aero Techniums i worked out Ultegra spools fit just have to use Ultegra drag knobs!

 

So ended up buying 2 x Power Aero xtb reels as i was very impressed with them and got a good deal with line .£120 for two spare spools though added to the overall cost and took me over my budget a little but i think i made a good choice these should improve my distance casting

 

looking at the spec online you are right they should come with spare spool . Shop only had display model and was positive they didn’t come with a spare spool so I ordered 2 . Hopefully will be with me tomorrow and I’ll find out if they are included I’ll just return the extras

 

Is it worth upgrading the stock drag washers on the reels or are they good enough long term

 

I'm sure the stock washers will be fine. Do you even rely on your drag that much when sea fishing? Those are premium reels, the drag should be very decent compared to most reels you'd come across while out and about.

 

Reel’s finally arrived today . Very please with them and they did come with spare spools and lots of spacers .

Now I want to use a tapered mainline as I prefer not to use a leader knot and from experience I seem to get better distances without one

anyone have any recommendations for a tapered line

 

Reel’s finally arrived today . Very please with them and they did come with spare spools and lots of spacers .

Now I want to use a tapered mainline as I prefer not to use a leader knot and from experience I seem to get better distances without one

anyone have any recommendations for a tapered line

If you don't like a leader knot I'd suggest buying strong braid. 80lb j braid grand or something equivalent should do the trick and still cast very well.
If you buy tapered line, not sure if it's even available, and snag and snap off you're going to either have to tie a leader on anyway or replace the line.

 

Just got home and had a play with the reels and have to say they feel terrible . The rotors and handles are wobbling all over the place which is a disappointment because a reel thats made in Japan should have better quality control than this as the one I played with in shop was super smooth . Returning them tomorrow for replacements

 

Just my own opinion buddy but you shouldn't have been swayed from what you asked for in your original post? Everyone is different and what suits one does not suit another?
I've been beach fishing for over 50 years. Was also tempted to go the fixed spool/braid route a few years back and gave it a good go. Not for me I'm afraid but I can well appreciate that it suits others and their own rods/venues but I personally feel that you got it right in your OP? You don't NEED massive distance or non stretched line to catch fish.
I also appreciate things have moved on greatly in those fifty years? But so have multipliers, go secondhand if the cost worries you?
Daiwa 7ht Mags will do everything you want - trouble free casting with confidence. You can pick one up for around £150 in very good nick secondhand that will serve you well for years if you shop wisely but like I said just my opinion. Regards.

 

the line is tapered both ends so if you get a breakage just reverse on the spool . Or tie a leader which will be easier .
i have a bulk spool of 80lb power pro braid I use for pike fishing but for distance casting I prefer mono .

Trabucco XPS Taperline Surfcasting SC - Veals Mail Order

Trabucco XPS Taperline Surfcasting SC Special tapered Nylon Monofilament line 220m of limp premium quality Trabucco running line Built in 15m tapered leader at each end Double ended leader design means that if you break the line you can reverse it to extend its life No leader knot gives...

www.veals.co.uk

not sure how you add a link but this is the line I was thinking of using

 

wouldn't bother it's ok'ish for fishing light but 5oz plus a no from me as lines prestretched and start whanging heavier leads round can be more prone to snapping as not much give in line.
Other issues arise when spooling up! trying to load heavy/thick line onto spool then lower diameter over it as once line level drops it becomes springy.
I don't know on your casting capability? But For me @220 meters is going to mean into that end of line pretty often.
If remember right our using 13ft fireblades? for decent distance you need max tip speed so need speed in the cast compared to 14ft odd.
If going with mono why not just use a braid leader? nice small knot and you get better compression on the rod plus weed doesn't seem to like it!
Ive braid leaders on FS and Multi with braid and mono.
Trouble with heavier straight through is you loose all the advantages of distance and cutting through tide/wind and only gain no leader knot.

 

Yeah 13 ft fire blades . I have ordered some varivas yellow sport in 18lb as I didn’t realise that other stuff was pre stretched and I have used similar before and you are right it’s rubbish .going to go and practise some casting at the weekend to get a feel for the rod . Have some 60lb greased weasel and power pro 80lb I could try as a leader . Now I use the fg knot when spinning to attach fluro to braid would this be suitable for mono to braid or do you recommend something different ?

 

with mono on multi's i'm on 100lb Saratoga Chinesium special on ebay it's 4 strand overhand knot on braid to Grinner knot with mono i do around 10 turns but can do 5 just make sure you wet knot well as snug up
FS on Braid using 100lb Powerpro braid 5 turn grinner back to back
I don't use Greased weasel if use mono leader go with 80lb which have a few types! Asso/Ultima/rovex10x and Sakuma copolymer which use for rig making mostly.

 

There are taper leaders on the market... 15lb through to 80lb 45 foot long (approx).

I've been trying the daiwa one and gives a nice small knot (uni to uni knot)

Nutsy

 

There are taper leaders on the market... 15lb through to 80lb 45 foot long (approx).

I've been trying the daiwa one and gives a nice small knot (uni to uni knot)

Nutsy

Best tapered these days are the Koike can get 20lb -80lb

 

So I returned the xtb’s as the build quality on the replacements was absolutely shocking . Not sure if was a bad batch from the factory but the second set were even worse than the first set which was a surprise being a Japan made reel if that actually means anything these days
Ended up buying a pair of the new 1400 xtc which feel rock solid way better made and lighter in the hand . Way over price that I originally planned but very happy With the reels .

 

there interchangeable all the larger reels with the flat front/low knob reels fit each other just that the lower ranges have clutches held in by circlip then screws on next and top end has four screws and ice drag washers.