For fishing enthusiast, you know how fun the activity becomes when you are equipped with the best fishing reel. With the right fishing gear, you are assured of bringing home a catch after spending quite some time on the waters.
When it comes to selecting the best fishing reels, many anglers have different tastes and preferences. There are different features that anglers consider while others concentrate on the brand.
One of the best selling fishing reel brand appreciated by many anglers is Shimano. The big question is, why do they go for the best shimano fishing reels? There are so many reasons why Shimano fishing reels are common among many anglers. The reels have a high performance and they provide easy handling among other positive things.
Being an avid fisherman, I have used and reviewed different types of Shimano fishing reels. I’m here by presenting you with top ten fishing reels from Shimano that you can get at reasonable prices. Enjoy reading the reviews of the different reels as well as the buying guide.
Contents
- 1 Why You Need Shimano Spinning Reels
- 2 Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Shimano Spinning Reel
- 3 Ten Best Shimano Spinning Reel Reviews
- 3.1 1. Shimano Spin Reel Clam Review
- 3.2 2. Shimano Sienna Freshwater Spinning Reel Review
- 3.3 3. Shimano Stradic FK HG Review – Front drag spinning reel
- 3.4 4. Shimano Thunnus CI4 Spinning Reel Review
- 3.5 5. Shimano Curado I Reels Review
- 3.6 6. Shimano Stella 4000 FI Review – Front drag spinning reel
- 3.7 7. Shimano Sedona FI Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel Review
- 3.8 8. Shimano Spirex RG Spinning Reel Review
- 3.9 9. Shimano Syncopate 1000 Front Drag Spin Reel Review
- 3.10 10. Shimano Sahara Spinning Fishing Reel Review
- 4 Final Words
Why You Need Shimano Spinning Reels
- They are designed with a corrosion resistant body for durability
- The reels are lightweight
- They are easy for kids learning fishing
- Shimano reels are easy to use
Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Shimano Spinning Reel
This guide will take you through some of the most important components that you should check when you are buying a Shimano spinning reel. Go through it carefully to find out what makes a good Shimano spinning reel. You should put all the factors included here when choosing a spinning reel so that you can get the most suitable model to your liking.
Fishing Environment
Before you select a spinning reel, it is worth considering the fishing environment. You want to have the best Shimano fishing reel that will withstand any fishing environment.
As you know, fishing in saltwater requires a corrosion resistant fishing reel. Therefore, you should determine whether you will be fishing in freshwater or saltwater so that you can get a perfect fishing reel to suit your needs.
Body Construction
You also need to think about the construction of the spinning reel. Does it have a nice design that will reduce fatigue when you are fishing? As an angler, you want to spend the best time on the water without your hands getting tired as a result of long fishing sessions.
Therefore, you should consider the material that is used to make the spinning reel and ensure it is lightweight. You can get different materials used to design the reels components such as graphite and aluminum and you will be sure of the best performance.
The price
In reference to the price, Shimano provides you with all types of fishing reels to suit the needs of all anglers. Whether you are looking for lower priced, middle priced or other high end spinning reels, Shimano has got you covered.
They have incredible fishing reels to suit the budget of an angler. All you need to do is to determine your budget requirements and then look for a spinning reel that matches with your budget.
Size of the Reel
You should also know that Shimano reels come in different sizes. You need to select the right size. When selecting the right size, you will also need to know the type of fishing line that you will use. For instance, if you intend to use a lighter line, then you need a smaller fishing reel.
Consider the Spool
The spool is a crucial part of a spinning reel because it holds the fishing line. It is also the part that ensures you achieve long distance casting and smoothness. You should check the material that is used to make the spool when buying Shimano spinning reels.
In most of the spinning reels that you will find on the market, they are designed with graphite or anodized aluminum material. Each of these materials come with their pros and cons. For instance, selecting a reel with a graphite spool gives you lightweight while one with an aluminum material gives you more strength. It is up to you to find out which material you would like the spool of the ideal spinning reel to have.
Handle
You should also check the design of the handle so that you can be comfortable when you are fishing. Spinning reels with anti-reverse handles are great because they prevent the handle from spinning backwards. Never spend your money on a spinning reel that has a backward motion because it will ruin your fishing experience. Take your time and look for another model that gives you the best performance.
Ball Bearing
This is another important thing that determines the performance of a fishing reel. The number of ball bearings present in a spinning reel highly determines how smooth your fishing will be.
If you select a fishing reel that comes with more ball bearings, you are assured of a smoother operation. Your spinning reel should have a minimum of five bearing if you are looking forward for a smooth operation when fishing.
Ten Best Shimano Spinning Reel Reviews
After reviewing and testing different models of Shimano spinning reel, here is the top list of the best shimano spinning reels available on the market. They are incredible products that you will enjoy using when you are out fishing. The reels covered here come with top quality features that make fishing the best activity.
1. Shimano Spin Reel Clam Review
When it comes to the amount of money that you can spend on a fishing reel, there is no limit. Shimano provides you with one of the most affordable yet high performances fishing reels on the market.
Anglers who are looking for a perfect fishing reel without spending a lot of money can depend on the Shimano Spin Reel Clam. The reel comes at a very pocket-friendly price and delivers an outstanding performance.
If you have been into fishing, you know the importance of having a lightweight spinning reel. It gives you an easy time when you are fishing. This is one great quality that you will love when you are using this reel because it is very lightweight so you can be in full control.
The components of the reel such as the frame, sideplate, spool and rotor are designed with graphite which makes it durable and resistance to corrosion. This means that the reel works well when you are fishing both in freshwater and saltwater.
The fishing reel also gives the best performance when you are using mono, fluorocarbon and powerpro lines. It can hold a line capacity of 6/170, 8/120 and 10/100.
Highlighted Features
- Line capacity of 6/170, 8/120 and 10/100
- The reel is lightweight( weighs 8.6oz.)
- Very easy to use
- Designed with graphite components
2. Shimano Sienna Freshwater Spinning Reel Review
The type of fishing reel that you choose highly determines your performance when you are fishing. For those anglers who are looking for a fishing reel with advanced features and a high performance, try the Shimano Siena spinning reel.
The reel brags of propulsion line management system that allows you to achieve longer casts with little or no backlash. So you can achieve smooth fishing all the time.
This incredible fishing reel from Shimano features both front drag and rear drag versions. The reel is also approved for saltwater use and uses mono, Fluorocarbon and PowerPro lines.
The components of the reel are made of graphite so you can expect a long lasting use even when you are fishing in saltwater. The graphite construction makes it corrosion resistant hence very durable.
Another quality feature included in the reel is the super stopper II that provides you with an instant anti-reverse without any backplay.
As compared to other spinning reels, this model is lightweight. It weighs only 9.5 oz so you can expect to have a great time when you are fishing.
Highlighted Features
- Propulsion line management system provides longer casts
- 3 ball bearing
- Saltwater approved
- Lightweight
- Instant anti-reverse without backplay
- Durable graphite components
- Works well with different lines
3. Shimano Stradic FK HG Review – Front drag spinning reel
If you want to get additional features in a fishing reel, buying a relatively expensive model gives you more features that you can enjoy when you are fishing.
Shimano continues to provide you with innovative spinning reels that change your whole fishing experience. For instance, Shimano Stradic FK HG fishing reel incorporates a new technological concept called Hagane that gives fishing enthusiast strength, reliability, durability and robustness when you are fishing.
The reel also makes good use of the advanced cold forging technology that gives you a high resistance.
When it comes to durability, expect this spinning reel to provide you with many years of use. It is designed with a metal body that gives rigidity and high robustness.
For you to enjoy your fishing experience, this reel is designed with a sleek G-Free body that ensures there is effective weight distribution so your hands will not be fatigued when you are fishing. In fact, all the components of this fishing reel are made with the needs of an angler in mind, and they ensure that you get the best experience when fishing.
Highlighted Features
- Nice construction that reduces fatigue
- The reel is strong and rigid
- Provides a high resistance
- Metal body for durability
4. Shimano Thunnus CI4 Spinning Reel Review
Selecting the best fishing reel that will meet almost all the needs of an angler can be difficult, but with Shimano, everything is possible.
For those anglers out there in the search of an easy to use and functional fishing reel, the Shimano Thunnus CI4 Spinning Reel is made just for you.
In as much as the spinning reel costs much more than other models, it is worth your money, and you will definitely get what you pay for.
This reel is designed with lightweight material to give anglers an easy time when they are fishing. As compared to other predecessors, this model is 7 ounces lighter and this doesn’t compromise the power provided. Whether you are catching small or large fish, you can expect the best performance from this fishing reel.
The reel is also known as the best live bait spinning reel currently available on the market today that provides the required adjustability with any bait at any given condition. Additionally, the fishing reel also provides a smooth and reliable stopping power.
Highlighted Features
- 1 roller bearing
- 6 S-SUS bearing
- Lightweight construction
- Propulsion line management system
- Best live bait spinning reel
- Reliable stopping power
5. Shimano Curado I Reels Review
It doesn’t matter what your fishing requirements are, with Shimano, you can get the best spinning reel that meets your needs.
For those anglers whose needs are to achieve smooth and effortless casting, look for no other fishing reel but the Shimano Curado Reels. The reels can never disappoint you when it comes to performance.
Users of the reel appreciate their lightweight and compact design that brings about an easy handling. The fact that the reels are lightweight doesn’t mean they have a poor performance. In fact, they have the power just like large baitcasting reels.
When using this reel, you will also enjoy the comfort offered together with ability of catching bigger fish.
As compared to the previous models with plastic components, this one features an upgraded crank and the drag system which are designed of stainless steel hence making them quality.
Highlighted Features
- Smooth and effortless casting
- Compact and lightweight
- Power to catch larger fish
- Stainless steel crank and drag system
6. Shimano Stella 4000 FI Review – Front drag spinning reel
Once you have identified a perfect fishing spot, do not allow the poor quality or underperforming fishing reel let you down. Upgrade your fishing reel with the Shimano Stella 4000 FI and you will have the best fishing experience.
This fishing reel has been designed to provide you with even a better performance. It gives you versatility when you are fishing both in freshwater and saltwater.
The reel is designed with Micromodule Gear Technology that gives anglers with very smooth fishing moments. This happens with very less vibrations so you can enjoy every second when you are in the waters.
For the most comfortable fishing, the reel has a G Free body that ensures the weight is well distributed to reduce fatigue.
It doesn’t matter where you take your fishing, this fishing is highly versatile to suit your needs. It has a layer of protection that seals the line rotor, bail arm and the roller clutch hence allowing you to fish in all environments.
One more amazing feature with the reel is the anti-reverse bearing that reduces the friction when you are fishing hence you can comfortably operate the reel.
Highlighted Features
- Anti-reverse bearing
- 13 S-ARB bearings
- %:2:1 gear ratio
- Micromodule Gear Technology for smooth fishing
- G-body reduces fatigue
- Versatile for saltwater and freshwater use
7. Shimano Sedona FI Freshwater Spinning Fishing Reel Review
Tired of using a heavy spinning reel that makes your work difficult while on the waters? Do not suffer anymore, you can enjoy nice fishing experiences with the Shimano Sedona FI Spinning Reel.
This is a perfect spinning reel that is designed with casting in mind. The reel brags of propulsion line management system that gives an easy line release off the spool when you are casting. With this you end up achieving very long casts.
The reel is available in different models like SE500FD, SE1000FD, SE2500FD and SE4000FD. You can pick any model depending on your liking and still expect incredible fishing.
The reel is also designed with lightweight yet very durable materials to provide you with an easy time handling.
It also features a propulsion spool lip that pays attention to how the line is flowing off the lip so that you can achieve a maximum resistance.
The reel also features another incredible technology called Fluidrive II and Dyna balanced rotor gear system that ensures the spool is always at balance. Even when you are struggling with fish, this fishing reel will not wobble.
Highlighted Features
- Fluidrive II & Dyna Balanced Rotor Gear System
- Lightweight graphite frame
- Propulsion Spool Lip
- Propulsion Line Management System
- Different Models available
8. Shimano Spirex RG Spinning Reel Review
Whether you are fishing for fun, sport or recreational purpose, equipping yourself with the right gear is important. You do not want to miss every catch simply because you have a poor performing fishing reel.
Get the Shimano Spirex RG Spinning Reel and reform the way you handle your fishing. This reel is worth adding to your fishing tools if you are looking forward to the best fishing.
Comfort is one thing that the manufacturer has ensured is incorporated in the reel. It is designed with a rubber handle that offers anglers with an improved grip when you are fishing.
The reel also features a lightweight graphite frame, rotor and sideplate that are durable and allow users to handle the reel with ease without bearing too much weight.
All anglers will also appreciate other features included in the reel such as S concept design, Fluidrive II, repairable clicker and a Dyna-balance.
Highlighted Features
- Rubber handle offer a nice grip
- Lightweight graphite components
- S concept design
- Line Capacity: 2/270,4/140,6/110
- 5 ball bearing
9. Shimano Syncopate 1000 Front Drag Spin Reel Review
For those anglers who would love to make quick casts with one hand, the Shimano Syncopate spinning reel is designed for you.
The fishing reel features propulsion line management system to help you get increased distances while using less effort and with reduced wind knots.
When it comes to durability, expect the best from the reel. It has a graphite frame, rotor and sideplate that are all designed to provide longevity.
The reel is designed with aluminum spool that makes it lightweight and durable as well as holding the fishing line in place.
You will also enjoy fishing in freshwater, inshore and saltwater without compromising the performance of the reel.
Highlighted Features
- Propulsion spool lip
- Durable graphite components
- Graphite frame and sideplate
- Aluminum spool
- Applicable in freshwater, saltwater and inshore
10. Shimano Sahara Spinning Fishing Reel Review
Lastly, you can also get the Shimano Sahara Spinning Fishing Reel that is made to suit all the needs of a fisherman. This reel gives you more strength and maneuverability hence making your whole fishing experience great.
It has a waterproof drag that makes sure that no water can cause damages to your drag system.
The reel also gives you longer casts with no tangles, thanks to the propulsion line management system that works well with the slow oscillation.
Anglers also love the M compact body design of the fishing reel that makes it lightweight and very easy to use. You can enjoy many hours of fishing without getting your hands fatigued.
For durability, this fishing reel is designed with a graphite frame and a cold forged aluminum spool.
Highlighted Features
- Waterproof drag
- Propulsion line management system
- M compact body design
- Graphite frame, rotor and sideplate
- Cold forged aluminum spool
Final Words
Choosing the best shimano spinning reels seems to be such a difficult task for many anglers. I believe after going the guide and the reviews, you will have pretty much easy time making your purchase.
Shimano is one of the leading fishing reel brands in the United States. They have a series of fishing reels that work well for both freshwater and saltwater.
Anglers are always on the lookout for the best fishing reel that provides a G-free body design and an incredible performance. Shimano provides all that and even much more hence making their spinning reels the best.
With any of the spinning reels that are covered above, you are assured of the best moment on the water. It doesn’t matter whether you are doing it for fun or other reasons, the best Shimano spinning reels will always give you the best experience when you are fishing.