Reel overview
February 20th
Review of Shimano reels (Shimano)
The structural division of Shimano Adachi Co LTD began its work on fishing gear in 1971. The company was founded in Japan and for the first 3 years it produced fishing equipment and ammunition only for its country. In 1974, products began to be sold in European countries. And in 1980, using the Aero reel from Shimano, they managed to set a world record for casting distance. Since then, many countries have become interested in the fishing products of this brand. The Shimano company began supplying products with pleasure and began opening divisions in different countries.
For ease of implementation, Shimano has released its catalogs in different languages. For 2021, catalogs are published for Japan, North and South America, Australia and European countries. Shimano is considered a huge corporation with 5,000 jobs and a distribution network in 46 countries.
Shimano reels are high-tech and well thought out. Each series of spinning reels has been developed by a team of experienced engineers and anglers. During development, the smallest details were taken into account, from design creation to operational aspects. Each series of reels has certain requirements and is necessarily tested before entering the market. It is important for the company to bring to the world level only those products that will compare favorably with competitors in their reliability and power.
The company produces multiplier and spinning reels for spinning rods, with special importance given to the spinning type. The design is the own development of Shimano engineers. All spinning spinning reels are equipped with an endless screw, which significantly increases the quality of line laying. Also, the design of the screw eliminates the formation of a “beard” during casting and the loops breaking. A reel with a working mechanism works quietly, without extraneous squeaks or whistles.
Main models
1. Alivio
. Shinamo has the most budget series. It was developed for beginner spinners and amateur fishermen. It is most in demand when fishing for pike and other medium-sized predators. You can fish with a spinner, spoon and spinner. The design of this series boasts an innovative unit, which is patented only by Shinamo. Such units are available in both economy class and premium reels.
Anti-reverse is installed using the Super Stopper II system. Varispeed line layer. The reel is equipped with a V-shaped spool and reduced vibration when casting. Ease of use was achieved due to the anatomical shape of the handle. The manufacturer did not bypass this series with an anti-twist line system.
The Alivio series is limited to four models. The size that is purchased is considered to be 2500. For them, it is necessary to use a fishing line of at least 0.14 mm, and a bait from 5 to 30 grams.
2. Nexave.
Belongs to the budget class of Shimano reels. Suitable for beginners and avid amateurs. For spinning rods, both light and “heavy” models are chosen, and only serious reels from representatives of this line are placed on the feeder.
Like all reels of the brand, the design is based on Shimano’s own patented developments. The graphite body lasts for years. The units are predominantly made of lithium-aluminum alloy. A system has been installed that eliminates all kinds of vibrations during throwing and retrieving. The line is laid with the Varispeed system. The anti-curl and overlap function is not installed.
The most commonly sold is Shinamo Nexave 3000 SFC. It is recommended to use spinners and spoons of no more than 40 grams as bait. For jig fishing, it would be more advisable to use special equipment, cranks and rattlins. This model is suitable for various jerk baits.
3. Exage.
Belongs to the middle price class. It is aimed at advanced anglers, but is in demand among beginner spinning anglers. Coils of this series have been noticed among athletes. This means that the reel has the necessary functions and is easy to operate.
The latest models in the Exage line have been modified by Shimano engineers with the proprietary Varespeed ll line guide. The system is patented by the brand, copes well with line overlaps and twists, and also allows you to cast to spinners and jerk baits.
The classic model among the entire line is Shimano Exage 2500 FD. The reel works ideally with fishing line from 0.12mm. Perch, pike perch, medium-sized pike, chub, asp are the main reasons for purchasing such a reel. It is recommended to use various jigs, wobblers and spinners as bait.
4. Stradic.
Developed specifically for sport fishing. The operating technique of the coil system is called “velvet” because there is no noise or vibration. The line is complete, developed to all standards. Among the popular ones is the Stradic Ci4 2500 FB model. This is a spinning reel that is suitable for various types of fishing and lures. Professionals fish for trophies with jerk lines, minnow wobblers and other jerk baits.
5. Twin Power.
This series was created between the middle and elite class and has remained at this level. It deservedly became popular on the world market already in the first year of sales. It is purchased by experienced fishermen and athletes. The Twin Power reel combines the latest developments from Shimano.
The most popular reel is Twin Power 4000 pg. Designed for fishing with large wobblers. The series also includes special reels for catching carp and other large fish. Reels represent light and heavy class.
Useful video
Next, watch a video about the markings on the spool of a spinning fishing reel:
Thus, in order for fishing to be successful with the maximum probability, it is necessary to carefully prepare for it. The choice of a fishing reel occupies one of the first places in importance in this matter. You need to first decide on the fishing conditions, and then, according to the markings applied by the manufacturer, make the optimal choice.
Source: klevyj.com
Coil capacity series 1000 what is it
Design
• Frame. The device together with the handle is cast. The materials for manufacturing are metal, carbon fiber and plastic of special strength.
• Rotor. Comes complete with a movable line handle. Before casting, the bow is folded back and the cast is made. There are power, universal and speed.
• Spool. Manufactured using innovative technology of titanium, aluminum or polymer alloy.
• Pen. Serves to rotate the entire mechanism. It is made mainly of plastic.
• Reel holder foot. It is attached to the fishing rod. Made from the same material as the reel. It must be attached to the spinning rod tightly, no backlash is allowed.
• Drive mechanism. Located in the housing, it is not a removable element.
• Friction mechanism. An important part for retrieving, hooking and landing fish. Has a special screw for adjustment. For the standard setting, simply tighten the friction brake fully. Then relax 0.25-0.5 turns.
• Reverse system. Eliminates unnecessary vibrations when catching the handle and rotor.
All Shimano reels are complex engineering developments and are equipped with unique mechanisms and systems.
The best Shimano reels
1. For ultralight.
Ultralight is fishing with light and ultra-light baits. The reels are adapted for this type of fishing, including adverse weather conditions. Thin cords, small spoons and wobblers are suitable as bait. The reels can withstand serious overloads and allow you to catch large fish.
• Sahara
. It is considered a universal line of the Shimano company. Copes with serious loads. Ideal for fishing with monofilaments, thin cords, wobblers and small spoons. The design includes a reliable clutch and proprietary control systems. From the line, experts highlight the Sahara 2500. Due to its weight of 250 grams, it balances well on the rod. This model comes with 5 bearings. High gear ratio 5.0:1.
• Ultegra
. Designed specifically for sports fishermen. The entire structure is assembled from branded control systems. The reel is light, balanced by the manufacturer at a high level. It has a “velvet stroke” and clear line laying. Set up for fishing with almost weightless baits. The line is wound accurately and evenly, any overlaps and twists are completely excluded. For systematic use, it is recommended to choose a reel with number 2500. This will allow you to use even medium baits without overloading the mechanism.
• Stella
. One of the best premium reels. Repeatedly at trout fishing competitions, athletes were spotted using Stella reels. Such a coil can be overloaded without affecting the functionality. Shinamo brand engineers participated in the development and creation of this series. For fishing with ultralight baits, sizes 1000 and 2500 are suitable, depending on the weight of the wobbler and spinner.
2. Power.
The company has released several series of power multiplier reels for catching large trophies even in dense thickets, high waves and other extreme conditions.
Power coils are designed for
1. Trolling.
2. Sheer glitter.
3. Sea fishing.
4. Jerking.
5. Heavy jig.
All Shinamo power “cartoons” have super power, high quality materials and control systems.
• Cardiff
. It is considered an average model, which is used by both beginner and advanced fishermen. The weight of the coil was reduced due to the material. At the same time, power traction remained at a high level. You can pull out large, twisty fish with such a reel even among dense thickets of water. It is recommended to use only in large open reservoirs where large fish species are found. As bait it is necessary to use heavy wobblers and spinners and other heavy solid baits.
3. Feeder.
Feeder reels are equipped with high-quality friction, have power and work perfectly in tandem with bottom feeders and equipment. Coils from 3000 to 6000 are considered most suitable for a feeder. Series of different price categories are presented on the market - from budget to premium class.
Basic parameters of coils
To answer the question of how to choose a spinning reel for spinning, you need to consider the main parameters on which the choice in favor of one or another spinning reel depends. These parameters include:
- Coil size
- Spool capacity
- Total weight
- Number of bearings
- Friction brake
- Line laying mechanism
- Gear ratio
- Materials from which the main components and elements are made
The overall suitability of a spinning bait for a specific fishing method, type of bait or type of predatory fish depends on these characteristics.
Coil size
This parameter affects the dimensions and power characteristics of the inertialess coil. Usually the size of a spinning wheel is indicated in thousands. Among spinning players, it is customary to use the classification developed by Daiwa and Shimano. Reels of size 1000–2500 should be chosen for light spinning when catching small fish with small baits. You should choose a reel size 3000–5000 when fishing with medium and heavy spinning lures. Large sizes are rarely used in spinning rods and are more often used in carp fishing and sea fishing.
Forestry capacity
This characteristic displays how much fishing line and what diameter can be placed on the spool. Forestry capacity is closely related to the size of the inertia-free forest. Naturally, thin cords are used for ultralight, so spools with high line capacity are absolutely not needed here. Line capacity is indicated in meters and is always indicated on the spool of a spinning reel.
Reel weight
Of course, a smaller reel will have less weight. But this parameter depends not only on size. It is also important what materials the reel is made of. Famous manufacturers of fishing products try to use high-quality durable materials that at the same time have minimal weight (titanium, aluminum alloys, polymers). Therefore, the best spinning reel among its peers usually has less weight.
Number of bearings
When solving the problem of how to choose a reel for a spinning rod, you cannot ignore the number of bearings in the product. Inertia-free bearings perform the following functions:
- Provide a smooth and easy ride.
- Eliminate backlash.
- Increases the service life of rubbing units and elements.
However, a large number of bearings does not always guarantee high quality and reliable operation. Many well-known companies actually place bearings where they are needed. And the nameless ones are all over the place. Therefore, it is important to choose one so that the bearings at least stand on the axis of the reel and in the line roller.
Friction brake
In modern spinning reels, the friction mechanism is designed to release the cord when playing fish. The friction allows you to successfully bring out large fish, the weight of which sometimes significantly exceeds the breaking load of the fishing line. Friction brake can be of two types:
- The front one is located in the spool, more compact and sensitive, but it is inconvenient to adjust it during the fishing process.
- Rear - located at the back of the reel, usually less sensitive, makes the tackle heavier, but allows you to reduce the cost of a spare spool and makes it easier to replace it while fishing.
Which spinning reel is better, with a rear or front drag, is a controversial question. The personal preferences of the fisherman play a big role. But most experienced spinning players still prefer the front friction mechanism and try to choose just such a reel.
Line laying mechanism
In modern spinning fishing gear, two types of line laying mechanisms are used:
- With an endless screw - a worm gear.
- With a rocker - a crank transmission.
When properly executed, both mechanisms allow you to get a good, even lay of the line, in which it lies on the spool without humps or dips.
Also important is how the fishing line is wound onto the spool. Straight-line winding (turn to turn) allows you to place more cord on the spool. However, the upper turns can “fall” towards the lower ones and get stuck there, which will significantly reduce the casting distance, and can also lead to the formation of beards and dropped loops. Cross winding allows you to avoid such troubles, but the line capacity of the spool is reduced, which, in principle, is not critical.
Gear ratio
This reel parameter displays how many revolutions the line guide makes per revolution of the handle. According to this indicator, all inertia-free systems can be divided into:
- Power - gear ratio from 1:4.0 to 1:4.7.
- Universal – gear ratio from 1:5.0 to 1:5.5.
- High-speed - gear ratio from 1:6.0 to 1:7.2.
Power reels are more in demand when fishing for large predators, for example, in heavy jigs. It is recommended to choose high-speed ones for those wishing to go ultralight.
Materials from which the main elements and components are made
In the production of spinning reels, materials with different properties are used. Inexpensive products are made from materials of poor quality or those that are easy to process and have low cost. As a result, such a reel rarely “lives” for more than two full fishing seasons.
Famous manufacturers use the best materials in their inertia-free machines to ensure the desired characteristics of the final product. The most common materials include titanium (body), aluminum alloy (spool), bronze alloy (gears), stainless steel, and various complex polymer materials. As a result, such an inertia-free reel has minimal weight, high reliability and performance.
