This great looking reel from Shimano has to be the top in its class. It is designed for use in both fresh water and salt water. Not to be outdone, Shimano has provided plenty of top features in the TE. When it comes to features, this reel has what it takes to do the job well. You might be paying a bit more but its one of those products where the quality is remembered long after the price has been forgotten
These include levelwind, high line capacity, light weight, and fine drag adjustments. While the reel is fairly light at only 12 ounces it certainly does not lack grunt.
The test of the pudding is always in the eating and the best way to test the Shimano Calcutta 300 is on the water to hook up a fish. Casting with this reel is a real pleasure. It casts long, effortless and trouble free. Using the Shimano Calcutta TE reel almost anyone can cast like a pro. With a little practice you can consistently cast thirty-five to forty yards. The TE is well suited to something like a Shimano Crucial rod or similar strong rod around 7 1/2 to 8 foot long.
Hooking up to a good fish you immediately experience the power this reel has. The gear ratio is great allowing you to keep pressure on the fish while smoothly retrieving the line. Probably the stand-out factor when using the reel is its smoothness and power, whether you are putting pressure on a fish during retrieval or when the drag is doing the job as the fish makes a run. Jerkiness is eliminated. Fish such as tuna weighing 50 pounds are well within the limits using this reel.
A bonus about affording a quality product like this is longevity. In this respect the Calcutta TE will not let you down. It is well beefed up with very few plastic parts compared to the earlier models. One of the things Shimano has done really well with this reel is the seals. Opening up the body after repeated salt water use there was no sign of any corrosion and the lubrication was still in great condition.
Durability is achieved in the detail and the use of high quality materials. The gold anodized finish stands up well in a salt water environment and the one piece aluminum frame provides excellent strength. Another detail that contributes to durability is the anti-rusting material used in the bearings. And the drag is made from a high performance material called Dartanium providing very smooth and effective performance
The addition of an audible clicker is another sign of Shimano's attention to detail.
Rating for this product? I would give it 5 out of 5. It might be a bit pricey but if you can afford, get it and you will find your fishing experience that much more enjoyable.
About this Author
Chris Johnston has a managerial background in education, screen printing, and arboriculture. He has a keen interest in health, fitness and outdoor sports. Special interests include fishing, kayaking, diving and snow skiing.
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