Shimano has introduced a quartet of surf reels that feature some truly innovating features which make them worthy of more than just a cursory glance at the tackle counter. While there are times when gamefish will feed practically in the wash, there are as many, or more times when casting distance can make the difference between going fishless and having a good day or night.
Enter Aero Wrap II, a worm gear oscillation system with a specially designed pitch that results in super slow oscillation, and ultimately, longer casts due to less friction as line leaves the spool. Less wraps per oscillation when spooling line, results in less wraps coming off as line leaves the spool. It is an innovation that makes you scratch your head and wonder why no one thought of it sooner.
All four models feature the Aero Wrap II system, as well as X-Ship gearing, where the pinion gear is positioned close to the center line of the large diameter drive gear, which results in more power being transferred from the handle to the rotor. Two roller bearings support the pinion gear to provide more stability. The four reels that make up the new models also feature Shimano’s Instant Drag system. A lever on the front of the spool allows you to switch the drag setting from free spool to a set drag in just a few turns.
The Aero Technium is a large, high capacity workhorse that weighs in at 19.4 ounces, and boasts numerous features that contribute to its smoothness and efficiency. The Aero Technium is the top of the line among the new additions and carries a suggested retail price of $739.99. The Ultegra C14+ XSB is a mid-size surf reel that boasts many of the same features as the Aero Technium at a more affordable price. It weighs in at 15.9 ounces and carries a suggested price tag of $319.99. The Ultegra is available in two sizes. The ULT10000XSC at 22.4 ounces is a full size surf reel, and a great value at $209.99. The ULT5500XSC is another mid-size option at 17.8 ounces. It has an MSRP of $189.99.
I had an opportunity to play with these reels and Shimano’s new line of Tiralejo surf rods one afternoon at a dealer/media meeting. Casting was limited to a 100 yard stretch in a hotel parking lot, and it took little effort to reach the end of the lot. Even with holding back on the cast, I had to snub a few of the casts short for fear of knocking out windows in an adjacent lot. Time will tell how these reels will hold up to the rigors of the surf, but in places like the Cape Cod Canal or Shagwong Point in Montauk, where casting distance can make a difference, they could just turn out be the X-factor.
The Tiralejo series features three models, a 10-1/2 foot medium action, an 11 foot heavy and 12 foot medium heavy. All are two pieces and built on CMS-HM carbon blanks. They are fitted with Fuji stainless frame guides with Alconite inserts, Fuji DPS reel seats and shrink tube grips. No one can dispute that they are an excellent value at an MSRP of $299.99.
For more info on Shimano’s latest surf products or any other of their extensive rod and reel lineups, go to Fish.Shimano.com and click on Products. You can also call 877-577-0600.
