Shimano Spinning Reels experience

[skahorse]

I'm looking to outfit my boat with 3 or 4 casting/live bait setups for TUNA. I was looking at Englund's two Shimano's spinning reels at the Salty Dog Convention. They had a Shimano Spheros 5000 and a Shimano BAITRUNNER (4500 I believe?). I've found both for decent prices on that popular auction site. I was wondering if anyone has had experience between the two?

Here are the specs:
Shimano Baitrunner 4500
Line Retrieve per Crank (in.) 37
Line Capacity (# Test / Yards) 14/295, 17/250, 20/195
Max Drag (lbs.) 15.0
S A-RB Ball Bearings 3
Gear Ratio 4.8:1
Weight (oz.) 22.2

Shimano Spheros 5000
Line Retrieve per Crank (in.) 31
Line Capacity (# Test / Yards) 10/240, 12/195, 14/165, 16/140
Max Drag (lbs.) 22
S A-RB Ball Bearings 3
Gear Ratio 4.7:1
Weight (oz.) 19.6

The Baitrunner has more line capacity, but less max drag. Any thoughts?

Thanks for the help,
--Ska

[steelfreak]

I know nothing about the Spheros, but the Baitrunner has been catching fish for alot of years. I plan on buying one for boat guests.

[CATCH AND EAT]

Just bought the 5000 and ready for the tuna to show up.

[skahorse]

What line are you putting on it?

[CATCH AND EAT]

65 spectra and then union knot 30 mono. That was what was recommended to me.

[Beer Waggin]

Baitrunner... to heavy.
Spheros... no clue.
Sustain... drag stinks.

The Baitrunner is really nothing more than a gimic (I was sold on it!). The reel is very heavy in your hands and you get very tired of holding it on slow days.

I also have a Thunnus. It's heavier than the Baitrunner.

The Sustain has poor drag performance (IMHO) for the money.

I love my Shimano's, but their spinning reels are not my favorite.

Tough to go wrong with a Penn Spinfisher or Slammer. Cheap, you can buy them just about anywhere and most importantly, the drags are bullet proof.