Home
Product Reviews
Message Forum

Shimano Stradic 4000
by DW Harris

If quality, performance, and dependability are what you are looking for in a new reel, then Shimano is without a doubt the way to go. Regardless of which model you choose, whether it's to fit your budget, or just for it's available features, I'm sure you won't be let down. The Stradic 4000 was my reel of choice this past entire season and I am totally impressed with the results, as I have been in the past with all the Shimano's I've used. This reel actually made me a more effective fisherman, or at least easier to do so.

The top features of this model are 4 stainless steel ball bearings, plus 1 roller bearing and a dynabalance anti-wobble system. These two features ensure smooth retrieves which equal great strike detection when using a finesse presentation. In other words, all you feel is the bait and not the reel wobbling in your hand. It also features a no play super stopper II anti-reverse for instant hooksets, over sized line roller for less line wear when fish pull drag, smooth front dial drag system (which I feel is superior to rear drag models), 6.2:1 gear ratio for fast line retreive when fishing fast water, adjustable right or left hand retrieve, and a free aluminum spare spool which I don't go on the water without.

The features that I found most desirable with this reel after choosing the 4000 size as compared to the smaller 1000 or 2000 size, (which is the way most all of Shimano's spinning reels are sold), was the larger diameter spool which when accompanied with the faster gear ratio equals one of the fastest reels made when comparing inches of line retrieved for each turn of the handle. Thirty inches with what I consider a full spool as compared to approximately 20" to 24" with most other small spool reels. This alone cuts down on fatigue after a long day of fishing current with faster baits. It is possible to catch up with a fast running smallie coming down stream with steam and prevent slack in the line which often equals lost fish. The larger diameter spool equals looser coils of line on the spool which means less line tangles. The slightly heavier weight of the 4000 as compared to the smaller reels is not even a factor to be felt, in fact, after trying one I would not hesitate to use one on the shortest, lightest ultra light rod made. The smooth retrieve definately makes any rod more sensitive and this is not affected when accidentally dipping the reel under water many times during the day while wading; something which seems to put some other reels in a pressure bind which can be felt thru the handle during retrieve.

If you are considering a new reel for the future I would recommend this reel first, although all the Shimano reels would be my choice when comparing per dollar performance. If you can spend a little more, by all means try this one, it will make your days on the water much more enjoyable.

Shimano Web Site