"The new Ultegra series spinning reels include a HAGANE Gear for incredible durability, X-SHIP technology for increased smoothness and efficiency, Aero Wrap Oscillation for perfect line winding and longer casting, and Core Protect for water resistance without a heavy rotation feeling. To the fisherman, these features work together to create a reel that responds quickly and positively in a wide variety of fishing situations. From an angling perspective, every individual who has owned and enjoyed using Shimano tackle has a reason to thank a Japanese visionary named Shozaburo Shimano, who in 1921 declared “I aim to make Shimano’s products the best in Kansai, then the best in Japan, and finally the best in the world."" For over 80 years, Shimano has concentrated on precision engineering, one step at a time. Creating the most innovative products and processes you can hold in your hand today."
S**S
Sloppy Construction; Not a Tough Inshore Reel for Multiple Seasons (4000 model)
On paper and out of the box, this reel looked promising for inshore fishing for redfish, speckled trout, etc. on the gulf coast.PROS: lightweight, nice drag numbers, good sizing for my hands (line capacity, nice long foot, and good crank geometry).CONS: When I operated the reel, it wasn’t as smooth as I’m accustomed to (compared with current Spheros SW 5000, old 3000 Sahara and Symetre). When turning the crank, I heard a hissing sound from somewhere in the gear train. Strike two was excessive play in the spool. It moved up and down on the shaft about 1/8” (again, much more than comparable Shimano products, or other reels). The final straw that prompted a return was overall looseness and flex when pulling line out against the drag. I chalk that up to plastic construction (not a good match for high drag numbers), and poor tolerances (could just be the example shipped to me).COMPARE TO: A comparable reel is the Penn Clash, which I’ve had for more than two years in and out of wharf, boat and surf. That one still runs smoothly, and has excellent stiffness with a smooth drag. I may try another Ultegra to rule out receiving a lemon. Even so, the reel did not strike me as the tough, all around inshore reel that it seemed to be on paper.
T**T
Extremely smooth reel
I bought two of these for freshwater and light, inshore saltwater fishing and couldn’t be happier with them. These are light, smooth and powerful reels. I bought the 3000 size and loaded them both with 15# braid. They’re perfect. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced reel and aren’t hung up on how many bearings and what the latest tech jargon and hype is with reels, just buy one.The cost of the higher end Shimano reels had me looking for something more reasonably priced. And these things deliver. I have Stradics and Sustains and prefer these to either of them. I can’t imagine anyone being disappointed in them. Especially at the price point.
A**R
Who needs a Stradic anymore
This works and feels just like my higher end Stradic, but less costly. It’s a good buy. Lightweight for extensive top water action or catching inshore snapper, trout and Red drum.
H**Y
I'm happy with the reel
I'm happy with the reel, bought for my son as his first fairly quality reel. He's only 10. But he took care of it and it lasted strong all the way through walleye and small mouth season! He even fished gills with it a few times. I like it, he likes it! We fish a LOT of Shimano, up to and including several Sustains. I approve of this reel.
R**.
Does its job
I've been very pleased with this reel. I immediately noticed I had better casting distance than with my Shimano Sahara with the same line. This reel also feels smoother. It's hard to put into words, but I've been very happy with this reel. I've used it on freshwater creeks, ponds, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic surf. It's performed admirably in all conditions. I like it so much that I'm planning to get a smaller version for my ultralight setup.
B**R
Great reel, great price
Initially I wanted a Shimano Stradic but I just hated to spend that much on a reel. I decided to take a chance on the Ultegra. I believe it was a great choice. The reel is light weight, well balanced and feels smooth as silk when retrieving. The drag has worked perfectly so far. I would buy another one.
A**R
A quality reel.
I just returned from a weeklong fishing trip on the Nushagak River in Alaska. I was fishing for Silver Salmon.The reel worked flawlessly. I was probably making more than 500 casts a day and had no problems at all.I would definitely buy the reel again.
D**8
Super smooth
I know Shimano is a premium brand but I bought two different brands thinking that the reels would be pretty close in overall quality. The Shimano was close to twice the price but I was curious. I opened them both up and was so surprised how much smoother the Shimano was than the other product that I decided to keep it and I know I will never regret it.
A**R
Great reel. Highly recommended.
Great little gem. I was surprised by how small but how strong this little reel is. Been using a couple of times and all I have to say it's amazing. Perfect for spinning tested on the sea and it looks like new and pulls without a beat. Solid construction and feels right in the hand.
F**E
not the quality of 20 years ago
bought to replace my old stradic. bail arm sluggish to flip into place. no spare spool. no anti reverse mays well have kept my old stradic.
K**T
Very good reel
Used for salmon fishingNo problem at all
G**E
Average for Shimano
Average in my opinion - I sold both on as soon as I got them.
J**.
Excellent reel, right up there with Shimanos best
Excellent Reel, very smooth. Retrieve action is very good. Drag is very consistent.
Trustpilot
2 months ago
1 day ago