Shimano Ultegra XR XSD Surf Spinning Reels

Shimano Ultegra XR XSD Surf Spinning Reel Featured image showing the author standing on the beach holding an oversized red drum.

The Shimano Ultegra XR XSD surf spinning reel truly stands out when I want dependable performance for surf fishing. Made for those long days along saltwater beaches, this reel delivers strong casting, smooth retrievals, and rugged durability. If you’re considering upgrading your surf fishing gear, here’s why the Ultegra XR XSD is a genuinely practical … Read more

7 Advantages of the Shimano Activecast Surf Reel

Shimano Activecast Surf Reels featured image showing a lady angler with her Activecast Reel standing in a boat.

If you’re new to surf fishing or just want an affordable way to cast big baits into the waves, the Shimano Activecast Surf Reel is worth a closer look. This spinning reel is known for its durable build and budget-friendly price, making it especially popular among beginners and anyone fishing rocky beaches or surf zones. … Read more

Shimano Thunnus CI4 Spinning Reel

Shimano Thunnus CI4 Spinning Reel featured image showing two lady anglers sitting on the side of a boat with several yellow fin tuna on the deck.

The Shimano Thunnus Ci4 spinning reel is one of my favorite picks for anglers who want a lightweight yet reliable reel for live bait and saltwater fishing. Its design keeps weight to a minimum with the use of high-grade carbon fiber, and it comes equipped with special features that make live bait fishing smooth and … Read more

Shimano Speedmaster II Lever Drag Reels

Shimano Speedmaster II Lever Drag Reels featured image showing a lady angler holding up a nice yellowfin tuna next to a photo of the Shimano Speedmaster II Lever Drag Reel.

The Shimano Speedmaster II Lever Drag Reel stands out as a favorite for saltwater anglers who want power and reliability without spending a fortune. I’ve found this reel to be a strong performer when targeting both big offshore species and hard-fighting fish close to shore. QUICK LOOK: Advantages and Potential Downsides of the Shimano Speedmaster … Read more

Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel

Shimano Baitrunner D featured image showing a lady driving a boat and standing next to a spinning rod and reel combo.

Fishing with live bait in saltwater demands a reel that’s both reliable and practical. The Shimano Baitrunner D Spinning Reel is an option I often choose because it’s built specifically for these situations. This reel blends traditional spinning performance with unique features, helping me present live bait naturally and land a wide variety of fish … Read more

The Shimano Talica 12 2 Speed Conventional Reel

Shimano Talica 2 Speed Lever Drag Reels feature image showing an image of the Talica next to an image of two lady anglers sitting on the side of a boat and reeling in their Shimano Talica.

The Shimano Talica 12 2 Speed is one of my favorite reels for serious saltwater fishing. This reel has earned a strong reputation among anglers because it’s both versatile and reliable, offering smooth performance whether I’m trolling for tuna or jigging for big bottom fish. QUICK LOOK: Features of the Shimano Talica 2 Speed Conventional … Read more

Shimano Stradic Reels Reviews

Shimano Stradic Reels Feature image showing a lady angler standing in a boat about to make a cast next to an image of the Shimano Stradic spinning reel.

Shimano Stradic reels have earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and popular spinning reels available today. I have reviewed many reels over the years, and the Stradic series stands out for its premium build, smooth performance, and versatile use in both freshwater and saltwater settings. QUICK LOOK: Key Features of the Shimano … Read more

6 Critical Features of Top Reels For Surf Fishing

Top surf fishing reels featured image with lady sitting on the beach with her surf rod and reel beside her and the author hooked up on the beach.

Surf fishing is an adventure, but it’s notoriously rough on your gear, particularly your reels. The saltwater is relentless, a real gear wrecker. We’re talking about corrosive forces that even a splash from a wave can unleash. And don’t get me started on sand—it sneaks into every nook and cranny of your reel. QUICK LOOK … Read more