ESP Onyx Big Pit Reel

When we first started developing the ESP reel over two years ago we looked closely at other reels on the market, plus the reels we had been using ourselves for many years. All had impracticalities (after all, most ‘big pit carp’ reels are actually developed with sea fishing in mind) which could be vastly improved upon. So we identified certain crucial areas and set about developing a reel which would be a highly practical and durable carp fishing tool.

Carp catching machine Kev Hewitt has been closely involved in the reels development over the last two years, exhaustively testing prototype samples and catching a serious amount of big carp while using them. The combined outcome is a reel that has bespoke machined alloy spools which require no backing – three reels can be filled from a 1,000m bulk spool. Not requiring backing improves line lay by preventing ‘bedding in’, which in turn improves distance casting, and not having several hundred meters of backing across three reels obviously reduces weight and cost!

Also, this is the first reel to provide two different drag adjusters – FD (Fine Drag for micro adjustment) and RL (Rapid Lockdown for free running to locked down in around half a turn).

Another desirable feature is the quick fold handle, for rapid deployment and pack down and also allows the handle to be folded in use for super snug rod setups.

The reel incorporates machined long life gearing with a fast retrieve ratio. The slow oscillation further improves line lay so they cast like a dream. And the final touch of muted classic black cosmetics and wooden handle makes these reels look the part on any setup.

All in all the perfect reel for modern day carp fishing applications.