Shimano Ultegra Spod: A Total Fishing Tackle Review
- By Andy Grenfell
- |
- 11 March 2023
Spod reels have come a long way since they first emerged in the mid-2000s. Dedicated spodding reels are now commonplace and well worth the investment if spodding is your thing! When we got our hands on the Shimano Ultegra 14000XTE spod reel, we knew it was going to be up there with the very best, in fact ,we think it might be THE best spod reel we have seen to date!
SHIMANO ULTEGRA 14000XTE SPOD REEL
Let's talk about price first.
£174.99 for a dedicated spod reel may seem a little on the pricey side, but carp anglers spend a heck of a lot more on their main fishing reels, and I would argue that on an average session, I spend more time using my spod reel than I do my actual fishing reels.
That said, it is still the most expensive dedicated spod reel we sell, so it needs to back up the bold price tag with some serious performance, and so far it has done exactly that.
The Ultegra XTE Spod is a purpose-designed spod reel that offers a fantastic combination of value and performance.
With a high-speed retrieve, shallow spool, 3 line clips, and an ergonomic handle grip for comfort, the Ultegra XTE Spod will fit seamlessly into any angler's set-up.
Hidden inside the lightweight, rigid CI4+ body of the Ultegra XTE Spod is a selection of Shimano’s most advanced technology. HAGANE Gear and X-SHIP combine with Infinity Drive and Silent Drive to deliver amazing smoothness and lightweight rotation. And whilst the internal engineering is a work of art that will cope with continuous spodding, it’s the casting performance that you will be buying this reel for.
The Super Slow 5 Oscillation generates amazingly smooth line lay that is proven to reduce friction and increase casting potential. But there are other features that contribute too. Rigid Cast reduces spool deflection at the moment of release during a cast, and Parallel Body sends the line at the perfect angle towards the first guide. And as the line flows over the lip of the aluminium AR-C spool, it coils down to reduce friction. The result is casting brilliance that is both impressive and effortless.
It's a big YES from us, the Ultegra Spod reel is a great addition to any carp angler's armoury.
KEY POINTS
- Long casting super slow oscillation
- Ci4 body material for lightness and strength
- Shallow Spool 3 line clips for multiple spots
- Quick retrieve makes winding in a breeze
- Quality the same tech as their fishing reels
- Super light and we love the matt finish
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