It was interesting reading the previous thread concerning pins as I use only pins for all my river coarse fishing and have a variety in my collection. However on the advice of my brother who already has one I have just paid out the massive sum of £30 for a new Marco Cortesi pin. On first inspection I'm quite impressed as it appears great value, although the plastic imitation wood handles are a bit of an eyesore and i'm not sure if the finish will be reasonably scratch resistant. I will have to wait for the new season to try it out but has anyone any thoughts on this reel?

I've got 2 and while being no expert they work fine. The same reel is being sold at £99 under a different name.
I had to return the first two that I was sent as they were both seriously out of balance, the replacements are fine.
I've used them for both trotting and ledgering and managed a few nice chub up to about 4lbs. A great way to fish and catch fish, I doubt if I'll ever use a fixed spool again.

Andy

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GAIC Single Handed Casting Instructor

http://www.andygreyfishing.com/

they're a good general use centrepin (almost as good as the old TF Gear x-pins ) they if they come in good order in the first place ,won't let you down .a safe bet as a first centrepin .

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I try to be funny... but sometimes I merely look it! Steve

Several mates have them and they appear excellent value, great for starting out, for the infrequent pin fisher or if you want to have a second or third rod set up.

Thought briefly about getting one myself however when I picked up two superb Okuma pins in mint condition for only £55.00 and £50.00 respectively, didn't see much point.

The Pirate.

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Sonik Sports Team Pitsford Pirates - No pressure, just pleasure! Pip pip!

http://www.flyforums.co.uk/trade-cla...e-bonanza.html

http://www.soniksports.com/

http://www.flyforums.co.uk/fly-lines...unkistbob.html

Well done. Nice prices. Anyway thanks all for the info and tight lines for now.

Plenty of discussion about them here:
cheap 'pin

Are they fake wood handles?? could've fooled me! Been impressed with mine, rate it as high as my Okuma 'pin, well almost.

I noticed GAC are now selling them under the Ikonix brand for £70. Still good at that price but who would pay that when you can get the identical reel for £30.

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