What To Look For
Shimano leads the world market in both fishing and bicycling products. Shimano fishing reels, such as the conventional lightweight Trinidad A saltwater reel, often win titles in the "Best Of" categories at fishing product shows such as iCast, according to the Shimano website. Shimano manufactures quality reels in a variety of price ranges for many specific uses. Top-of-the-line reels, like the Trinidad A, the Calcutta and the Thunnus C14, offer smooth-working machinery and lightweight bodies. Low-end models, including the TLD Star and the Baitrunner series, include many new upgrades in heavier packages.
Common Pitfalls
Do not believe that one quality reel will work for almost any fishing experience. Marlin fishers on the open sea will require far different reel machinery than freshwater bass fishermen. Purchase a reel designed for the style of fishing desired. Low-end Baitrunner 4000 reels offer versatile freshwater and inshore fishing. Big-water competitive fishermen will prefer the solid working and lighter weights of reels such as the carbon-fiber Thunnus C14 or the solid Tiagra series of saltwater offshore reels. Ensure that rods and reels match their intended purpose to prevent fishing gear damage.
Where To Buy
Many sporting goods retailers, online fishing supply stores and local fishing shops offer Shimano reels for serious anglers. The Shimano website offers a dealer locater at fish.shimano.com. Many discount and bargain online stores, such as the Dick's Sporting Goods website, sell a variety of Shimano reels at exceptional prices. Shimano manufactures a variety of quality fishing equipment, including rods and replaceable reel parts, for specific styles of fishing. Shimano fishing products find heavy support in the Shimano Xtreme Fishing Wii videogame, according to Benjamin Woodhouse with online videogame review site HonestGamers.com, available at videogame retailers and department stores.
Cost
Shimano fishing reels feature several levels of pricing. Low-end beginner models often sell from $15 to $30. Reels for more advanced anglers typically run from $50 to $100. Quality reels for serious fishermen cost from $100 to $400. Reels for serious big-game fishermen's offshore use typically cost from $400 to $1200. Many local fishing shops offer reel repair and maintenance; repair prices differ greatly depending on reel model and part required. Available reel modification component prices change with new model introductions. Shimano Xtreme Fishing videogames sell from $20 to $40.
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