Whether it’s cycling or fishing you are interested in, Shimano is a name to remember. This Japanese brand has been at the forefront of producing top-quality fishing gear for the last couple of decades.
And Shimano Curado K baitcasting reel simply bears the flag of that glorious legacy. This baitcasting reel is one of the most sought-after reels for many fishers around the globe because of its compact physique and improved braking system. Apart from that, there’s more that makes it a reel to look up to.
In this piece, we will be reviewing the Shimano Curado K baitcasting reel to find out what it has to offer!
Features of Shimano Curado K Reel
At a glance, the Curado K reel offers a diverse range of features that seem quite impressive. Here’s what struck us before anything.
Compact Design
The first thing you will notice on this reel is its amazingly compact design. Although it’s not quite measurable by the naked eye, it’s actually about 10% smaller in size compared to the previous models Shimano came up with. That makes it really a good choice for those who find it extremely comfortable to use small-sized reels.
It gives you a pretty much lightweight feel in your hand. This eliminates any risk of fatigue and pressure that can affect the smooth maneuvering of the reel and thus result in lesser success in catching fish.
Being lightweight doesn’t mean it’s not powerful. You can actually feel its robustness while you drag, minus the risk of fatigue and pain on your hands!
Aluminum Frame
The frame design of the reel is kind of identical to its previous models. You can’t tell the difference if not given proper attention. However, the frame uses aluminum in this case. This ensures that the total reel construction is a sturdy one – both from an internal and external perspective.
This sturdy frame protects the interior and the exterior from outside impact and shock. Apart from that, using aluminum has another purpose to serve. It reduces the overall weight of the reel. That’s quite an advantage you can enjoy by using an aluminum reel.
Lightweight But Rigid Side Plate
The side plate of the reel is another surprise to us. As the reel is entirely planned to be designed as a lightweight and ergonomic one, the side plate had to e optimized in that way, as well. And this is what Shimano dis.
Using the signature Shimano CI4 material, the side plate appears to be quite a robust addition to the reel. It’s lightweight yet exceptionally strong. That’s why this material gives the reel superior strength and robustness.
The plate is connected to the reel with a spring and a pin. It establishes a strong attachment so that the plate doesn’t loosen and doesn’t fall off while you are fishing in the middle of the lake!
Smooth Spool Design
The spool smoothness is something that most fishers keep a keen eye on while purchasing a baitcasting reel. This is because it’s so important that it can directly influence your fishing result. But you don’t need to worry much about spool when you have the Shimano Currado K baitcasting reel on your side.
Reach as far as you want with this smooth spool in your hand. Simply make sure you are casting a good and strong cast. That’s enough for the spool to keep up with the lures you attach. No matter how heavy the lures are, the spool with definitely catch up. Even the lightest lure can be easily handled by this one against the wind.
The spool is quite free, and it does spill exceptionally well. It comes with a very good adjustment system that syncs well with the SVS braking system of the reel. The Shimano S3D stable spool system is designed to reduce vibration while you cast and ensure a smooth release of line.
Strong MicroModule Gearing
The Curado K reel comes with MicroModule gearing that makes the reel quite smoother than most of its competitors. Compared to the earlier versions from Shimano, this one comes with a larger profile with a better teeth count. This ensures that the power transition is even smoother and more accurate than ever.
6+1 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings
The Curado K baitcasting reel features 6 shielded A-RB ball bearings. These bearings are made from complete stainless steel. As you can assume, stainless steel provides excellent protection from corrosion if you are continuously using the reel in salt water or muddy water.
Apart from the 6 ball bearings, the reel also comes with an anti-reverse super stopper bearing. It utilizes a single-way SS bearing to eliminate back-play.
SVS Infinity Braking
The braking system of the Curado K baitcasting reel is a pretty unique and standout one. It ensures effortless and precise braking for your casting when you need it. This SVS infinity braking system comes with brake weights that are devised to utilize the friction that is produced inside against the raceway the moment you cast.
It accurately takes control of the speed of the spool no matter how heavy or lightweight the lure you are using. Plus, there’s an external knob for adjustments that you can use for a quick adjustment on the fly you are using.
The Cross-Carbon Dragging
The drag is something that Curado K doesn’t seem to stand on par with the previous models from Shimano. It doesn’t deliver equal power compared to its predecessors. But, when it comes to the constant and smooth pressure while you drag, the ability is somewhat identical. Again, the drag star is capable of making finer changes when it is turned manually.
Longer Handle
The Shimano Curado K Baitcasting reel comes with a longer handle design than its ancestors. And the longer handle comes with a lot of perks when it comes to holding and handling the reel. It gives you more leverage and comfort, especially when it comes to dragging and catching larger and heavier fish.
Higher Gear Ratios
Although the reel comes in one size, the gear options count up to 3. You can choose from multiple gear options from 6.2:1, 7.4:1, and 8.5:1. It also gives you a choice to use it either on the right hand or left hand.
With these multiple gear ratio choices, you can explore different types of fishing experiences. These ratios will allow you to fish in every situation, whether it’s just flipping lightweight lures or catching heavyweight fish in dense water.
Shimano Curado K Baitcasting Reel Pros and Cons
Now that we know how distinct the reel is in terms of its features, here are some quick pros and cons that can make things clearer about this champ.
Pros
- Excellent quality and durable construction
- Consistent performance throughout non-stop use
- Powerful and smooth retrieve
- Lightweight and compact design
- Excellent SVS braking system
- Longer handle for easier operation
Cons
- The casting control of the reel appears to be quite tight.
Final Words
Overall, the Curado K baitcasting reel from Shimano is a smart choice for fishers who need a reel that supports every situation. Its smooth braking system and ergonomic design make it a very good choice if comfort and smooth maneuvering are what you are looking for. It’s a definite plus from our side to try out!