Casting distance doesn’t matter when surf fishing until it does. By this I mean that average casting distance is just fine for most average scenarios, but the moment you see fish breaking outside of your range then you will immediately know why Shimano has put so much effort into perfecting its long distance casting surf system. Added to their line-up of surf-specific products this winter is the all new Shimano Ultegra CI4 XTC reels, offered in both 5500 and 14000 size models. To handle the surf, salt and the abuse from big fish, both reels offer a combination of CI4+ construction, X-Protect and Shimano’s HAGANE Gear. The CI4+ material is light and rigid, providing all-day fishing comfort. Shimano’s X-Protect feature is a ‘labyrinth design’ three-lipped rubber seal system that offers exceptional water resistance without sacrificing light gear and rotor rotation feel. Shimano’s cold-forged aluminum Hagane gear offers both strength and smoothness, providing anglers the power needed when hooked into a 50-pound-plus striper.
Both the Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC and 14000 XTC feature large diameter long stroke spools to retrieve up to 41 inches per crank. On the larger 14000, Shimano also includes its ‘Super Slow 5’ oscillation system creating perfect line lay and allows line to leave the spool perfectly. “Anglers will notice how Super Slow 5 oscillation puts them within range whether it’s targeting big stripers in the Cape Cod Canal, working the beach at Hatteras, or casting past the breakers for tarpon and snook,” said Shimano surf-fishing expert Roy Leyva.
With a 5.3:1 gear ratio, the Ultegra CI4+ 5500 has the spool capacity to handle up to 270 yards of 40-pound test PowerPro, or 315 yards of 12-pound mono. The 4.3:1 gear ratio 14000 size can pack on 460 yards of 50-pound PowerPro, or 440 yards of 16-pound mono.
If you need a new rod to pair up with your Ultegra CI4+ reel, then look no further than Shimano’s Tiralejo rods. The 5500 is a perfect match for either the 9’6” or 10’6” models, while the 1400 is a good fit on the 10’ and 12’ medium heavy power, and medium heavy and heavy power 11’ rods. The 5500 retails for $319.99, and the 14000 retails for $339.99.
