Its more than powerful to hook set any inshore species you target. It’s great casts come from a myriad of features, two of which are the new “silent tune” and SVS Infinity brakes. To combat the salt all models have 8 shielded anti-rust bearings with 1 roller bearing. You will find top models for freshwater, inshore saltwater and some that can handle both environments. Buy the Metanium DC because it is an excellent general purpose baitcasting reel. S3D Spool: Always improving spool function Shimanos uses the S3D spool technology.

Essentially making it much easier to use a baitcaster, the digital brake control system utilizes a microcomputer to monitor spool speed 1,000 times every second and apply the perfect amount of brake to prevent backlash and maximize distance. Cutting any movement or vibration and ensuring smoother longer casts. Variable Braking System (VBS): The SLX uses this to aid in controlling casting.

The Aldebaran MGL is available in two models for right handed and two for left handed anglers.

In 2018, Shimano refreshed it with the latest cast technology.

This reel uses Ci4+ for its side plates to provide an ultra-light, rigid component that doesn’t rust! 1.

S3D Spool: The spool on the Tranx 200  is a cold-forged aluminum, non-ported spool that uses “S3D” technology. Well, they are different reels that excel at different types of inshore saltwater fishing.

Especially when battling bass and feisty inshore species. The Metanium DC comes with Shimanos’ newest version called I-DC5.

On first touch, the reel feels very compact and comfortable to palm, with good tension and travel in the thumb bar.

The first time you open the reel you will see the waterproof sealant between each sides of the reel body. Which makes sense, every reel needs maintenance, saltwater more than freshwater reels. This is the “Intelligent Auto” function.

So, without friction, the spool is able to spin freely. Next, it has waterproof drag to protect the body, the roller clutch and the line roller. While the HG weighs in at 6.5 ounces and the XG is 6.7 ounces. Which is important to protect the internal components.

As with any Shimano reel that has “micro-gearing” you do have to re-grease the gears at times. A “clicker” is a Shimano feature that increases the tension in free-spool. Or if long casting isn’t a priority then stick with the older SLX for an affordable baitcaster.

Using this brake system allows for accurate casting of both heavy and light lures. Cold-Forged Aluminum Spool: The Calcutta B reel use s a cold-forged aluminum spool. These are brake weights using ‘inner friction’ against the raceway during the cast. This is a double bearing supported pinion gear made of aluminum.

Level wind is great for casting distance or if you worry about backlash. The first, was the Curado DC.

The SLX comes with brass gearing, with a versatile amount of gear ratios. Made from Shimano Magnesium hagane body with Ci4+ side plates, it’s lightweight and durable. I’d love to tell you I never backlash baitcasters, but there are far too many witnesses, including several Elite Series anglers, who would put an end to such self-indulgence.

Last point I want to mention, this reel needs cleaning after every use. If you don’t need to make long casts, then this reel might not be ideal. 4.

In other baitcasting reels, pressing the clutch bar will free the pinion gear. The Shimano SLX DC is the latest in the SLX series of baitcasting reels.

Introduced at Icast 2019 this is the Shimano SLX DC. The Curado DC uses Ci4+ for the side plates which makes sense because it houses the micro-computer. When you do this the pinion gear will often drags against the spool shaft.

Plus three models for lefties (SLXDC151) with these same three gearing options. Each have many small teeth, making more contact points between the drive gear and pinion gear. “For newbies, finding a baitcasting reel this lightweight, at this price point is hard to find!”. Give it a try, you will be glad you did! Dual Handle With EVA Paddles: Measuring at 90mm handle for HG models and a 95mm handle for the XG model these will provide more fighting leverage. Add the wide-ranging Cross Carbon Drag up of to 13 lbs of max drag. The reel is super rigid with no flex, with a PowerPro line capacity of 150, it’s very capable.

As a result, anglers get consistent spool speeds as well as great casting distances. XT-7 Side Plates: Shimano uses a graphite composite material for the SLX’s side plates. My favorite feature of the Tranx 200 baitcasting reel is the smooth external brake dial. Compared to the 2015 Aldebaran you should expect cast distances to increase by at least 20%. Made from a magnesium body with carbon inter-fused side plates, in my hand, it’s insane how light this reel is.

While also staying comfortable for a full day of heavy cranking. Inside the frame these bearings have a bit of space that can create vibrations when moving the spool. This low-profile baitcaster feels good in the palm and sports the same plastic level wind as the Curado K. How else did they beef it up? Some anglers may think its expensive, but for the angler who aspires to the top levels of this sport its worth it. Look I get it, why spend the money for the Chronarch G if you can get the cheaper Tranx 200?

The SLX DC is really only missing one major feature by comparison. I’ve tossed a few baits on Shimano reels with the I-DC4 digital brake control system and have felt the difference. Jig. With your new found knowledge, choosing the best Shimano baitcasting reel isn’t hard. First the body is aluminum Hagane design, the same as the Curado.

Its unique design provides comfort whenever the angler is adjusting the drag. Along with large dual paddle grips, which are great when you need extra fish fighting power. What about the Curado 200K for saltwater inshore fishing? If you love the signature “DC whine” you will like this reel. The side plates however, are some kind of plastic or graphite. This eliminates friction on the spool shaft during casting. It’s simple to see that this is a tough and powerful little reel.

For control it, you can use an external dial with 6 tension settings. That is the micromodule gearing. I have average sized hands and can tell you  that I really like the compact feel of the SLX. As well as rigidity to withstand any body flexing. Another feature the SLX has is an extended handle of 45-48 mm.

Not with the Super Free (SF)! S3D: To further improve spool function the reel uses Shimanos’ S3D technology.

The SLX DC is no different. The higher gearing allows you to reel in fast, keep slack out of the line and good bend in the rod.

See the features section for an explanation of each lure setting. There are three right handed models (SLXDC150), in regular, high gear and extra high gearing. For anglers experienced with the Curado series, this is like a Curado K but with a DC brake system. Which will also activate a clicking alarm to alert you when a fish bites. High Efficiency Gearing (HEG): A trusted and dependable gearing design. Last year, Shimano introduced the Curado DC reel with its I-DC4 digital brake control system designed to reduce the learning curve for anglers new to baitcasting reels, while raising the performance level for experienced fishermen. I like the external adjustable brake settings, which allow you to match the amount of control to four scenarios from max distance for lengthy casts to max brake for those challenging shots like dock skipping. Upon opening, you will see VBS braking system and six brake weights.

The basic rule is the more bearings a reel has the smoother it is.

The MGL abbreviation for the Aldebaran means it uses Shimanos Magnumlite spool.

As of 2020 the one disadvantage for the Aldebaran MGL is its specific use.

Clicker System: The 400 and 700 models of the Calcutta B have an optional feature called a “clicker.” When engaged, the clicker increases the tension in free spool. Inside, a centrifugal brake system uses small weights to activate the braking. Weighing a mere 6.9 ounces, this reel is 22% more compact than the Caenan baitcaster. Bold claim right? While it is a bit larger than the standard SLX, it is still quite small. I suppose you can try light cranking, something like top water frogs. These include lure weight settings 1-4 and “A”: By setting a material and lure weight, the Metanium DC casts longer without you having to worry about back lash. I loaded it up with fluoro and tried some crankbaits. Nor is this the reel for thick, nasty, mats of overgrown weeds.

Most of the time I toss light drop shots with 1/8 oz weights and a Jackall Spade T.G. Waterproof Drag: These are non-contact rubber gaskets with a hydrophobic coating. For this reel though I do recommend keeping up with maintenance, doing so will make this reel basically bullet proof. The casting was smooth and long.

As well it activates a clicking alarm to alert you when a fish bites.

This drag material gives a wider range of drag settings, along with a very smooth drag.

A. This computer driven reel makes precise adjustments to reduce human error during casts.

What I mean by this is that it’s exceptional at bait finesse fishing, but don’t try deep cranking with it.

Silent Tune: Is a technology exclusive to the Aldebaran series of baitcasting reels. Whereas the Curado DC us six bearings and one roller bearing. Silent Tune is Shimano’s answer to this problem. Either based on line type or cast type, including: By relying on smart digital control, anglers get trouble-free casting in all conditions.

For those anglers who don’t know, DC means a digital controlled brake system.

Setting 4 is max breaking. As a result, there is no friction and the spool spins free. This setting is ideal for Mono or braided lines. They decided it was time for the Aldebaran to receive Shimanos coveted MGL moniker.

For top reels, most anglers know that Shimano baitcasting reels are industry leaders.

Overall the body uses thinner components without sacrificing structural integrity.

Dual EVA paddles: Anglers will appreciate this type of paddle, as it is comfortable in the hand.

Choosing the SLX DC, you get long distance effortless casting at a reasonable price. Sot the DC braking system set to the 4th setting can really help your skipping casts. My guess is the reason is due to the Ci4+ carbon frame and side plates.

Don’t disappoint yourself with any of the copycats. Also, the regular models with a 6.3:1 gear ratio are listed as having 12 lbs of drag.

From the debut to today it’s won several publications editors choice awards. This allows for easy worry free changes when out on the water.

SVS Infinity: This is a hand operated braking system for the reel. Such as the superior line management with the S3D Spool Design.

An added bonus is the gears are brass which equates to durable performance. (S) A-RB: Used on all saltwater approved baitcasting reels to fight corrosion. This allows you to control the cast based on lure weight under any weather condition.

This reel is awesome for spinner baits and jigs or fishing small mouth bass. CI4+ Side Plates: Ci4+ is a composite made of a mixture of carbon fiber and poly-amide. Without this friction, the spool spins fast and free. Get best fishing times with lunar fishing calendars, Open: Robertson soars to the top at Cherokee, Open: Robertson takes the lead on Cherokee. Otherwise expect the same features Shimano puts into all Curado series reels.

Another nice feature, the one touch removable side plate to access the SVS Infinity Brake system.

The others show 11 lbs of drag. Plus there is an external dial to make precision brake adjustments.