Best SHIMANO Fishing Reels of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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SHIMANO is a well-known brand in the fishing industry, and their fishing reels are no exception. These reels are designed to provide anglers with a smooth and reliable fishing experience. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different types of fishing, from freshwater to saltwater. SHIMANO fishing reels are made with high-quality materials and advanced technology to ensure durability and performance. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, SHIMANO fishing reels are a great choice for your next fishing trip.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shimano Curado BFS Low Profile Reel Cover #TOP 1
Shimano Curado BFS Low Profile Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Shimano MIRAVEL MIR2500HG Spinning Reel Cover #TOP 2
Shimano MIRAVEL MIR2500HG Spinning Reel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shimano Sahara FJ Spinning Reel SH2500FJ Cover #TOP 3
Shimano Sahara FJ Spinning Reel SH2500FJ
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 9 SHIMANO Fishing Reels

#TOP 1

Shimano Curado BFS Low Profile Reel

CUBFSXGR
Multi
One Size
Shimano Curado BFS Low Profile Reel Cover
Shimano CURADO BFS Low Profile Reels (CUBFSXGR) Fishing

The Shimano Curado BFS Reel is designed to give you a lightweight and easy-to-handle fishing experience. Its low-profile design lets you cast smoothly and comfortably, helping you stay in control. The ultralight shallow spool means you can cast lighter lures with greater precision and less effort. Thanks to Shimano's advanced Finesse Tune Brake system, you get excellent control over your casts, reducing backlash and improving accuracy. Plus, the fully adjustable brake system allows you to customize the reel’s performance to match your fishing style. This reel is a great choice if you want convenience and precision on the water.

What We Like
Low-profile design
Ultralight shallow spool
Finesse Tune Brake system
Fully adjustable brake
#TOP 2

Shimano MIRAVEL MIR2500HG Spinning Reel

MIR2500HG
Multi
2500
Shimano MIRAVEL MIR2500HG Spinning Reel Cover
Shimano MIRAVEL Spinning Reels (MIR2500HG) Fishing

The Shimano MIRAVEL Reel offers anglers a smooth and reliable fishing experience. Its MagnumLite Rotor is designed to reduce weight, making it easier for you to handle and cast for longer periods without fatigue. The Cross Carbon Drag system provides strong and consistent resistance, helping you control big catches with confidence. Thanks to CoreProtect, the reel resists water intrusion, so you can fish worry-free in wet conditions. Additionally, the G-Free Body improves balance by shifting the reel’s center of gravity closer to your hand, enhancing comfort during use. Altogether, these features make the Shimano MIRAVEL Reel a great choice for both casual and serious anglers.

What We Like
Lightweight rotor design
Strong, smooth drag system
Water-resistant protection
Improved balance and comfort
#TOP 3

Shimano Sahara FJ Spinning Reel SH2500FJ

SH2500FJ
Multi
2500
Shimano Sahara FJ Spinning Reel SH2500FJ Cover
Shimano Sahara FJ Spinning Reels (SH2500FJ) Fishing

The Shimano Sahara Reel offers a smooth and reliable fishing experience with its advanced features. Its durable HAGANE gear ensures long-lasting strength and smooth operation, so you can fish with confidence. The SilentDrive system reduces noise and vibration, giving you a quieter and more comfortable reel. With the Propulsion Line Management System, you’ll enjoy better casting performance and less line tangling. The G-Free Body design shifts the reel’s center of gravity closer to the rod, reducing fatigue and making it easier to handle during long fishing sessions. Overall, this reel combines strength, quietness, and ease of use for an enjoyable fishing trip.

What We Like
Durable gear system
Quiet operation
Improved casting control
Ergonomic design
#TOP 4

Shimano SLXDC150 Baitcast Reel

SLXDC150
Multi
Shimano SLXDC150 Baitcast Reel Cover
Shimano SLXDC150 Baitcast Fishing Reel Right Hand Retrieve 6.3:1 Gear Ratio

The Shimano SLXDC150 Reel offers a strong and rigid metal body that helps you transfer your energy directly into powerful cranking without any flex. It features the SVS Infinity brake system, which lets you easily control your spool speed for more accurate casts, especially when using light lures. The spool is designed to reduce vibration, making your casting and retrieving feel smoother and more balanced. Plus, the Super Free Spool reduces friction during your cast by keeping the gears perfectly aligned, helping you achieve longer, more effortless casts every time you fish.

What We Like
Rigid metal body
Adjustable brake system
Reduced spool vibration
Friction-free casting
#TOP 5

Shimano Syncopate FG Spinning Reel SC2500FGC

SC2500FGC
Multi
2500
Shimano Syncopate FG Spinning Reel SC2500FGC Cover
Shimano SYNCOPATE FG Clam Spinning Reels (SC2500FGC) Fishing

The Shimano Syncopate Spinning Reel is designed to give you smooth and effortless casting, making your fishing experience more enjoyable. Its Propulsion Line Management System helps reduce line tangles and improves casting distance, so you can focus more on catching fish. The QuickFire II feature allows you to quickly and easily release the line, giving you better control and faster reactions when you feel a bite. Whether you’re fishing in lakes, rivers, or along the shore, this reel is built to perform well in various water conditions and is suitable for anglers at any skill level.

What We Like
Smooth casting performance
Line tangle reduction system
Quick line release mechanism
Versatile for different waters
Suitable for all skill levels
#TOP 6

SHIMANO CURADO DC 151 HG Reel

CUDC151HG
Multi
SHIMANO CURADO DC 151 HG Reel Cover
Shimano CURADO DC Low Profile Reels (CUDC151HG) Fishing

The SHIMANO CURADO DC Reel is a high-quality fishing reel perfect for avid anglers. With its advanced technology, this reel features a unique DC braking system that allows for accurate and precise casting. The reel box is designed to protect the reel from damage during transport and storage. Additionally, the reel has a durable construction that ensures long-lasting performance on the water. The ergonomic handle and lightweight design provide comfort and ease of use during long fishing trips. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, the SHIMANO CURADO DC Reel is a great investment for your next fishing trip.

What We Like
Accurate casting
Durable construction
Ergonomic handle
#TOP 7

SHIMANO SPHEROS SW A

SPSW5000XGA
Multi

The SHIMANO SPHEROS Reel is designed to enhance your fishing experience with advanced features. Its Infinity Drive system provides smooth and powerful retrieves, making it easier for you to reel in your catch. The HAGANE Gear offers durable and strong gearing, ensuring long-lasting performance even under heavy loads. With the HAGANE Body, the reel is built to resist twisting and damage, giving you reliable strength on every cast. Additionally, the Cross Carbon Drag system allows for smooth and consistent drag pressure, helping you control the fight with your fish more effectively. Overall, this reel combines strength and smoothness for better fishing results.

What We Like
Durable gearing
Strong, twist-resistant body
Smooth, powerful retrieve
Consistent drag control
#TOP 8

Shimano NASCI NAS500FD Spinning Reel

NAS500FD
Black
Shimano NASCI NAS500FD Spinning Reel Cover
Shimano NASCI FD Spinning Reels (NAS500FD) Fishing

The Shimano NASCI Reel offers smooth and powerful performance, making your fishing experience much easier. Its Infinity Drive system ensures you can reel in heavy catches without struggle by providing steady torque. The Anti-Twist Fin helps keep your fishing line straight, reducing slack and preventing tangles for a hassle-free cast. A One-Piece Bail design minimizes friction, which means smoother line retrieval and fewer snags. Plus, the CoreProtect feature adds water resistance to protect your reel from damage while keeping it light and easy to turn. This reel is designed to give you reliable and comfortable fishing every time.

What We Like
Smooth high-torque reeling
Line twist prevention
Low-friction bail system
Water-resistant design
#TOP 9

CURADO MGL 151HG CURADO

CUMGL151HG
Multi
CURADO MGL 151HG CURADO Cover
Shimano CURADO MGL 150 Low Profile Reels (CUMGL151HG) Fishing

The CURADO MGL 151HG CURADO is a compound gauge that offers a variety of features to enhance your fishing experience. The product has multiple features, although the text does not provide any specific details about them.

What We Like
No specific pros mentioned in the text.
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between XG and HG Shimano?

Shimano fishing reels come in different gear ratios, including PG (Power Gear), HG (High Gear), and XG (eXtra high Gear). The gear ratios typically range from 4.8:1 for PG, 5.8:1 for HG, and 6.2:1 for XG, although there may be variations. These gear ratios determine the speed at which the line is retrieved. XG offers the highest retrieval speed, followed by HG and then PG.

2. What is the hardest fishing reel to use?

Among the freshwater spinning reels, the bait-casting reel is generally considered the hardest to master. It is designed for casting larger lures or bait for longer distances. Other challenging fishing reels include open-bail spinning reels, closed spin casting reels, and fly fishing reels. Each reel type has its own unique characteristics and requires practice and skill to use effectively.

3. Is HG or XG better?

The choice between HG (High Gear) and XG (eXtra high Gear) depends on the fishing technique and personal preference. For buzzbaits, XG is often preferred. For burning spinnerbaits or working traps, both XG and HG perform equally well. XG reels may also handle chatterbaits with ease. Ultimately, the decision between HG and XG should be based on the specific fishing style and needs.

Editor's Notes

During our SHIMANO fishing reel research, we found 24 SHIMANO fishing reel products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,565 customer reviews through our big data system to write the SHIMANO fishing reels list. We found that most customers choose SHIMANO fishing reels with an average price of $151.49.

The SHIMANO fishing reels are available for purchase. The top 9 picks range in price from a low of $49.00 to a high of $259.00, find the one that fits your budget. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 682 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.