Shimano Reels: Engineered for Angling Excellence
Shimano reels are trusted worldwide, representing the pinnacle of precision engineering and innovation in fishing tackle. Built on decades of experience, Shimano crafts reels that consistently deliver exceptional performance, whether you are targeting coarse fish, aggressive predators, or powerful saltwater species.
The Shimano Story
The journey of Shimano's renowned reels began as part of a broader company philosophy. Founded in 1921 in Japan, Shimano leveraged its expertise in precision manufacturing from bicycle components to launch its fishing tackle division in 1970. This strategic move was driven by a commitment to enhancing outdoor experiences.
Early innovations like the DUX spinning reel in 1971 quickly established Shimano as a leader, with their Bantam baitcasting reel in 1978 further cementing their reputation for groundbreaking reel design.
The Shimano Reel Advantage
Choosing a Shimano reel means selecting a tool that offers a tangible edge, providing confidence and control in every angling situation.
Unrivalled Smoothness: Shimano reels are legendary for their buttery smooth operation, a result of meticulously engineered gearing and advanced bearing systems that reduce friction and enhance the retrieve.
Exceptional Durability: Constructed with robust materials and corrosion resistant technologies, Shimano reels are built to withstand the rigors of demanding fishing environments, ensuring longevity and reliable performance season after season.
Superior Casting Performance: Technologies like the Propulsion Line Management System optimize line flow off the spool, leading to longer, more accurate casts with reduced tangles, making every cast more efficient.
Formidable Fish Fighting Power: Featuring advanced drag systems that offer incredible stopping power and consistent pressure, Shimano reels provide the control needed to battle and land hard fighting fish with confidence.
Reel Technology: Precision at Your Fingertips
Shimano's reputation for reel excellence is underpinned by a suite of proprietary technologies that translate into real world angling benefits.
Hagane Gear & Body: Cold forged drive gears (Hagane Gear) offer extreme durability and smoothness, while rigid metal bodies (Hagane Body) eliminate flex, ensuring power is efficiently transferred through the reel.
MicroModule Gear II: This evolution in gearing features an increased number of smaller teeth for more contact points, resulting in an even smoother, quieter, and more efficient retrieve.
X Ship & Infinity Drive: X Ship supports the pinion gear with bearings for precise alignment and stability, while Infinity Drive further reduces friction and boosts cranking power, especially under heavy loads.
X Protect & CoreProtect: Advanced water repellent technologies and labyrinth structures are applied to key areas, preventing water intrusion and protecting internal components from corrosion, crucial for saltwater longevity.
Propulsion Line Management System & InfinityLoop: A uniquely angled spool lip and extended spool oscillation (InfinityLoop) optimize line flow for longer casts, reduce friction, and prevent wind knots. The Anti Twist Fin further eliminates line twist.
DuraCross Drag: A new drag washer material provides the smooth feel of felt but with significantly enhanced durability, ensuring consistent drag performance.
Understanding Shimano Reel Codes
Shimano uses a specific format for their reel names to quickly convey key features and specifications:
FAMILY : MODEL : SIZE : GEAR RATIO : SPOOL DEPTH.
Model: The two letters after the family name (e.g. Stradic FB signify the model. The first letter, either R or F, often indicates a rear or front drag system, respectively. The second letter follows the alphabet to show the model’s chronology, with later letters (e.g. FD, FE) representing newer generations.
Gear Ratio: This is communicated by two letters after the size number.
PG (Power Gearing): Lower gear ratio, ideal for jigging and deepwater fishing where torque is more important than speed.
HG (High Gearing): A balanced gear ratio, perfect for general purpose lure fishing and quick line retrieval.
XG (Extra High Gearing): An ultra fast gear ratio for targeting swift-moving fish with topwater presentations, reducing slack line and aiding in hooksets.
Spool Depth: The final letters in the reel code indicate the spool’s depth, which is especially useful for braid users who want to avoid using excessive backing.
M: Medium spool depth.
MS: Medium Shallow spool depth.
S: Shallow spool depth.
SS: Super Shallow spool depth.
Other Common Designations:
C at the beginning: Compact reel body.
SW at the beginning: Saltwater-specific model.
SDH at the end: Shallow Spool, Double Handle.
FAQs
What makes Shimano reels so smooth? Shimano's renowned smoothness comes from advanced technologies like Hagane Gear, MicroModule Gear II, and X Ship, which create precise gear engagement and reduce friction for an incredibly fluid retrieve.
Are Shimano reels suitable for saltwater fishing? Yes, many Shimano reels are specifically designed for saltwater use, incorporating features like X Protect and CoreProtect to prevent saltwater intrusion and corrosion, ensuring long term durability in marine environments.
How do I choose the right Shimano reel for my fishing style? Consider your target species, the type of water you fish (freshwater or saltwater), and your preferred technique (e.g., spinning, baitcasting, carp fishing, lure fishing). Shimano offers a wide variety of models with different features and sizes to match every angling need.
How should I maintain my Shimano reel? After use, particularly in saltwater, always rinse your reel thoroughly with fresh water. For non sealed drag systems, periodic cleaning and light lubrication with approved reel grease or oil is recommended. Always consult your reel's specific manual for detailed maintenance instructions.
Warranty Information
Shimano fishing reels are warranted for two years from purchase against defects in materials and workmanship under normal conditions. This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear (e.g., noisy gears, sticky drag plates), saltwater corrosion, misuse, neglect, or damage during shipment. This warranty does not affect your statutory rights.
