Shimano Metanium Baitcasting Reel
Shimano
★★★★★4.8/5ShimanoBest Baitcasting Reels 2026
Full Review
The Shimano Metanium is what happens when Shimano throws their best technology at a baitcaster without worrying about price. At 5.8 oz, it is absurdly light for a full-featured reel, and the MicroModule gears deliver a retrieve so smooth it feels like silk. The FTB brake system is a joy to adjust and provides pin-point casting control. Every cast feels effortless. The catch? It costs over $400, and for that money you get a reel that is not designed for heavy-duty work — it excels from finesse up to moderate power applications but can flex under extreme loads. If you fish often and appreciate premium engineering, the Metanium is worth every penny. If you fish a dozen times a year, put that money toward a Curado K and more tackle.
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 7.1:1 |
| Bearings | 6+1 S A-RB |
| Line Capacity | 12 lb / 100 yds mono |
| Max Drag | 11 lbs |
| Weight | 5.8 oz |
| Braking System | FTB (Fall Brake Tuner) |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight at just 5.8 oz without sacrificing strength.
- MicroModule gearing is the smoothest retrieve in its class.
- FTB (Fall Brake Tuner) provides intuitive, ultra-precise brake control.
- Core Protect water resistance keeps internals safe without sealed bearings.
- Casts like a dream — long, effortless, and quiet.
Cons
- Price tag of $400+ is hard to justify for casual anglers.
- Light frame can flex slightly under extreme loads from big fish.
- Replacement parts and servicing are expensive.
Who Is This For?
- -Experienced anglers who want the best
- -Tournament pros who fish every day
- -All-day fishing where weight matters
- -Finesse to moderate power techniques