ESP started developing this reel back in 2014 and it took years before they were satisfied enough to release it. They wanted a big pit carp reel that was more practical than all the sea fishing reels on the market.

Bespoke Alloy Spools

Two-time British Carp Angling Champion Kev Hewitt helped develop the ESP Onyx Big Pit Reel. After testing many prototypes, this reel now has bespoke machined alloy spools which require no backing! You can fill three reels from a 1,000m bulk spool. Not requiring backing improves line lay by preventing 'bedding in'. This improves distance casting, and by cutting down the amount of backing, reduces weight and cost.

Smart Drag System

The Onyx is the first reel to provide two different drag adjusters: FD (Fine Drag), used for micro adjustments and RL (Rapid Lockdown), which takes the spool from free-running to locked down in around half a turn of the adjustment knob.

Quick Fold Down

The quick fold handle allows rapid deployment and pack down. You can fold down the handle for use in super snug rod set-ups.

Great Line Lay

The Onyx incorporates machined long life gearing with a fast retrieve ratio (approximately 1m per rotation of the reel handle). Combined with a slow oscillation, the line lay lets you cast like a dream. And the final touch of muted classic black cosmetics and wooden handle makes these reels look the part.

Technical points:

• Machined, anodized long cast taper spools. Shallow for 300m of 15lb (0.37mm) and Ultra Shallow for 300m of 12lb (0.33mm).
• Three reels can be filled from a 1,000m bulk spool of mono, with no backing required
• Slow oscillation for exceptionally smooth line lay, helping distance casting and accuracy
• Two interchangeable drag adjusters - FD (Fine Drag) or the RL (Rapid Lockdown)
• Quick fold handle for speedy set-up and pack down, even for snug rod set-ups
• Stainless steel line clip for secure, damage-free clipping up
• 7 + 1 stainless bearings, machined gears and a 4.3:1 gear ratio for fast retrieve (approximately 1m per rotation of the reel handle)
• Rotor brake
• Front drag grit guard
• Easily accessible large anti-reverse lever
• Stylish matt black finish with subtle red decals
• Every single reel thoroughly QA checked by ESP’s expert in-house staff in the UK