Shimano Curado G Review
Shimano has released their newest version of the revered Curado baitcasting series reels. The Shimano Curado G series of reels has replaced the retired E series Curados.
So will this new Curado G live up to the reputation that was solidly established by previous Curado reels?
Only time will tell, but let's take a look at some of the Shimano Curado G features and early reviews.
The first thing that a lot of anglers are noticing about the Curado G is the lower price. The price of the Curado G is $20 lower than the previous E series Curado reels. This alone will put the Curado G into the hands of more anglers, by making it more affordable.
How does the Curado G compare to the Curado E for features? Let's see.
Shimano Curado G has the following features and specs:
- Line Capacity – 14/110
- Weight – 7.2 oz.
- Bearings – 4 + 1 (5 total)
- Drag – 11 lbs.
- Aluminum Frame
- Graphite Side Plates
- Quickfire II Clutch bar
- Super Stopper & Assist Stopper
- Recessed Reel Foot
- High Efficiency Gearing
- Super Free Technology
Shimano Curado E had the following features and specs:
- Line Capacity – 14/110
- Weight – 7.6 oz.
- Bearings – 5 + 2 (7 total)
- Drag – 11 lbs.
- Aluminum Frame
- Graphite Side Plates
- Quickfire II Clutch bar
- Super Stopper
- Recessed Reel Foot
- High Efficiency Gearing
So we can see that the reels are pretty even across the board in everything, EXCEPT one area. The Curado G has two less bearings. This would probably also explain why the new Curado weighs in at 7.2 oz. while the older E series reel weighed in at 7.6 oz. That might not seem like a lot of weight, but it can make a huge difference after an 8 hour day on the water.
The big question is whether two less bearings will make a significant difference in the way the reel handles. Only time spent on the water will tell you this, but my guess is that Shimano took this into consideration and wasn't willing to sacrifice reel performance in exchange for a lower price.
One excited buyer at Bass Pro Shops posted this review after buying the reel and trying it out:
Comments: i went out to bass pro today to get a new reel and i was lookin at the abu garcia sx and the i saw this reel and i feel in love with it… the ponds are frozen here in colorado so i took it to the back yard to cast and im impressed it cast a mile with a 3/8 ounce jig. get youself this reel…. i plan to get more
From: Andrew: Arvada, CO
Comments: These reels are awesome. Priced right and very dependable. I have two cranking and two high-speed models. Both are improvements over earlier models. Less weight and compact design translate to less fatigue on fishermen's hands on long days of casting. I have two Chronarchs from 2003, and they still perform great, but the Curados perform equally well. I actually sold my older (2003: $110.00 new) cranking Curados for $80 each in 2011, and the shop owner told me that the older Curados were still in high demand with a lot of fishermen.
From: John: Lexington, KY
Comments: Average reel at best! lighter than the older curado E series but a few steps back than curado e series. If you are used to the curado e series this reel simply won't do! If you want performance of curado e series buy the chronarch e!
From: D: Toledo Bend, LA
Comments: Very nice looking reel & smooth casting but Curado E is more better.
From: Nelz: MAS
The comments and reviews from Tackle Warehouse buyers were mixed, at best. Most of them were somewhat positive, but stating that the E series Curados were a better reel. This isn't good news for the Curado, but as more anglers buy the new reel there will be more reviews to read and it will give a bigger picture to base opinions on.
To check out the Shimano Curado G for yourself, click this link
Good fishing,
Curt
Reel Reporter
I’ve seen fishing reels on sale for some pretty cheap prices. These cheap prices always seem so enticing, but I always end up passing on the deal and walking away.