Testing Times: Shimano Vengeance BT240 MH Boat Rod - 11/03/2010

There are 11 different two-piece models to choose from in the Vengeance range – from 2.1m to 3m – and three one-piece rods – 20lb, 30lb and 50lb class – suiting most styles of boat fishing; there’s a rod for everyone. They feature tough XT30 blanks with Shimano Hardlite guides and screw-down reel seats that hold the reel firmly in place. The BT240 MH I tested is 2.4 metres long, has a flexible but powerful action and is rated for weights or lures up to 200g. This action is ideal for tiring fish and puts a lot of fun into your fishing – after all, there’s nothing better than seeing your rod bent double while playing a good fish.

The rod was matched with the new Talica 10 II lever-drag reel. The Talica is packed with features, including a choice of two retrieve speeds – 6.2:1 or 4.1:1 – at the push of a button. It has a one-piece diecast aluminium frame and one-piece forged-aluminium side plates protected by an anti-corrosion surface treatment. Six shielded A-RB stainless-steel ball bearings provide an extremely smooth operation and a waterproof, pre-programmable precision drag lever gives line freely without any snatching. The spool has a capacity of 270 yards of 20lb mono or 215 yards of 25lb mono but, if you prefer, it will hold 540 yards of 40lb braid or 530 yards of 50lb braid.

The reel has the usual settings for a lever-drag – free spool, strike and full-on, which really does lock the spool. It also has a loud ratchet so you can preset the drag and put the rod down safely, without the risk of it being dragged over the side. The rod and reel make a well-balanced, versatile outfit that will cover most aspects of boat fishing in our waters, from bream or strap congers on inshore reefs to drifting with shads and redgills on offshore wrecks and reefs. They will even cover general bottom fishing with bait for rays, bass and cod. At a push the rod will cast uptide pretty well too. The bite detection is very good, which is due to the supple tip, but it’s equipped with plenty of lifting power in the lower section to slow a crash-diving pollack.

INFORMATION: Vengeance BT240 MH

• Blank Material: XT30 carbon
• Overall Length: 2.4m
• Casting Weight: Up to 200g
• Sections: Two, equal
• Rings: Six, plus tip ring
• Whippings: Black, tipped with red and silver
• Reel Seat/Coasters: Fixed screw-winch
• RRP: £34.99

ROGER'S RATNG

• Appearance: 9
• Casting: 9
• Fishing: 10
• Value for Money: 10

Contact: Shimano UK Ltd on 01386 425826
Website: www.shimano.com

INFORMATION: Talica10 II

Gear Ratio: 6.2:1 and 4.1:1
Ball Bearings: Six A-RB
Line Capacity: 270 yards of 20lb mono or 540 yards of 40lb braid
RRP: £459.99

ROGER'S RATING

Appearance: 10
Casting: 8
Fishing: 10
Value for Money: 9

Contact: Shimano UK Ltd on 01386 425826
Website: www.shimano.com