Shimano Stradic FM Spinning Reel
A lighter, smoother premium spinning reel that won Best of Category for freshwater reels at ICAST 2023, and that testers also use in saltwater.
Price
$234.99 to $264.99 MSRP by size
Key specs
| Sizes | 1000, 2500, C3000, 4000, C5000 |
|---|---|
| 2500HG | 5.8:1, 20 lb drag, 7.8 oz, 34 in/turn |
| C3000XG | 6.4:1, 20 lb drag, 7.9 oz, 37 in/turn |
| 4000XG | 6.2:1, 24 lb drag, 9.7 oz, 40 in/turn |
| Bearings | 6+1 |
| Tech | HAGANE cold-forged gearing, MicroModule II, InfinityDrive, Duracross drag, X-Protect, Anti-Twist Fin |
What the maker and reviewers highlight
- Very light; a tester built one of his lightest inshore combos around the C3000 [source]
- Drag had plenty of stopping power in reserve on stripers [source]
- Smooth and durable after seven months of hard saltwater use [source]
Things to weigh
- Fast 6.4:1 C3000XG means slowing down when crawling plastics on bottom [source]
- Costs roughly $100 more than budget metal-body reels
Who it's for in Texas
A premium all-rounder: a 2500 for bass finesse on spinning gear, a C3000 for specks and reds in the bays.
Brandon's take: coming soon
We have not tested this one ourselves yet. If Brandon gets it in the field, his notes will go here. No rating is given.