SHIMANO DIALUNA BAITCAST ROD REVIEW BY ROGER SINCLAIR
The Shimano Dialuna BS series of rods demonstrates the pinnacle of rod materials and componentry, combined with Spiral X and Hi-Power X Graphite construction, Ci4+ reel seats and Fuji SiC guides. The sample we received for evaluation was the B606ML which is 1.98m long baitcaster of 2 piece construction and rated for 6 – 16 pound breaking strain lines. Recommended casting weight range for this particular model is from 5 – 28 grams. The Dialuna on test is exceptionally light in hand with an action best described as medium. This rod exhibits very fast deflection recovery times and as a result generates flat, fast casting trajectories, no doubt due to the high quality materials that are utilised in its construction. Similarly the marriage of high-grade materials and components meant that sensitivity and responsiveness to strikes was instantaneous when combined with lowstretch braided lines. In fact, with this combination I reckon you could feel barra breathing on your lure! In my opinion, this particular rod is one that slots into the finesse barra equation perfectly and excelled when coupled with a 50/100 size baitcaster reel spooled with 15 – 20 pound braid. Small and medium barra to 70cm were handled with ease and I was more than impressed with the Dialuna’s refined handling qualities. No doubt natives such as yellowbelly and aussie bass would be ideal targets for this particular Dialuna model as well. Avid lure casters who delight in accurate casts and subtle lure manipulation, with plenty of feedback transmitted via the rod, will enjoy using the Dialuna. The Dialuna BS rod range offers both baitcast and spin models that are suited to light and medium lure applications. www.shimanofish.com.au