You wouldn't think that the Shimano engineers could possibly improve on the superlative Tiagra lever drag game reel range, but somehow they've managed to do it. The new Tiagra 'A' series feature a slightly darker, heavier gold anodising, a drilled drag quadrant with a drag curve better suited to Australian conditions, and a new design rubberised power handle.

The heavier anodising makes these reels even more resistant to the ravages of salt water, while the click stop drag quadrant permits more precise drag adjustments. The counter-balanced handle falls easily to hand when striking a fish, and makes winding easier during the course of a protracted battle. Its rubberised tackiness combats sweaty palms, which can be a problem during the course of a long fight, especially when fishing more tropical waters.

And to protect that new reel, pick up a Shimano neoprene reel cover from your local tackle shop. They're available for the entire range from the diminutive Tiagra 12 right through to the big 130.

Enquiries: Dunphy Sports (02) 9526 2144. Website: www.shimanofish.com.au

SHIMANO STRADIC 6000FH

While perhaps lacking the bells and whistles of those sensational Stella and Sustain threadlines, Shimano's Stradic series certainly perform like them, but at a lesser price tag. The latest addition to the range - the 6000FH - is a brilliant mid-size reel capable of covering a number of diverse fishing situations.

With a retrieve speed of 5.7:1, the 6000FH holds 265 m of 6 kg line or 170 metres of 8 kg (and a spare aluminium spool is supplied as standard). It has 4 of Shimano's patented A-RB bearings plus 1 roller bearing, Dyna Balance for wobble-free retrieves, Super Stopper 11 anti-reverse, and Fluidrive II for a crisper, more efficient winding.

Additionally, Shimano's exclusive Floating Shaft design reduces friction between pinion gear and spool shaft, which makes using the reel smoother and trouble free.

Along with Super Slow Oscillation line lay, it's also possible to adjust the reel's winding profile by placing a series of supplied washers on the shaft under the spool, so the line can taper to the front, to the back, or keep it level depending on the line being used - braid, nylon, fluorocarbon or whatever. An oversize power roller on the bail arm combats line twist and friction created by fast running fish.

The aluminium body and forged aluminium spool means the 6000FH is light enough to be hand-held all day and the T-shaped Septon handle is comfortable to hold and wind and nice and grippy to touch.

Finally, an easily accessed maintenance port gives quick and easy access to the internals for light lubrication.

Enquiries: Dunphy Sports (02) 9526 2144. www.shimanofish.com.au

SHIMANO RAIDER DAM RAIDER ROD

Shimano has expanded their top-selling Raider rod series, with the inclusion of the Dam Buster Raider baitcaster rod. Like all the rods in the ground-breaking Raider range, the Dam Raider is designed by noted Australian rod builder, Ian Miller.

The 7' 2 piece Dam Raider is rated for use with 3-8 kg line, and 10-20 g lures. Fuji's New Concept Alconite guides and tip are used throughout and these are light and functional.

Greater feel for tentative hits and just what that lure is doing down there is enhanced by the use of cork grips and a Fuji exposed blank trigger grip reel seat. It also features a plastic collar to prevent the locking foregrip from being over-tightened and thereby splitting the cork.

While principally designed for dam fishing with soft plastics like Squidgies, spinnerbaits and hard-bodied minnows, this rod is versatile enough to be used in the estuaries and some light bluewater applications as well.

Enquiries: Dunphy Sports (02) 9526 2144. www.shimanofish.com.au