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Last Updated on 6 September 2024 by James Bevan
Score derived from the average of these ratings:
Build Quality - 8.0
Cast & Retrieve - 7.5
Drag / Clutch - 7.5
Value For Money - 8.5
The Aerlex series of reels by Shimano have been around since 2016/2017 and are still popular today amongst Carp anglers due to their sheer quality.
Boasting one of the largest line capacity spools, alongside Shimano’s renowned engineering and at a decent price point its clear to say why they are at the top of many Carp fisherman’s wish list.
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 5.3:1, providing a fast retrieval rate of 115 cm per handle turn |
| Line Capacity | 0.35mm/400m, 0.40mm/300m, 0.45mm/200m, suitable for various fishing needs |
| Ball Bearings | 2 shielded stainless steel bearings and 1 roller bearing that allows for super smooth operation |
| Oscillation System | Aero Wrap II with 2-speed oscillation which helps achieve the perfect line lay |
| Drag System | Front drag which is super smooth |
| Line Clips | 3 line clips to allow for spodding at various spots |
| Handle | Single-machined aluminum handle for durability and power transmission |
| Weight | 650g, which is average amongst all top performing spod reels |
Here’s how the Shimano Aerlex XTB 10000 compared to other spod reels we have reviewed:
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa 23 Superspod 45 SCW | 8.8 | from £169.99 |
| Daiwa Emblem Spod Reel | 8.6 | from £134.99 |
| Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD | 8.5 | from £134.99 |
| Avid Pro Spod Marker Reel | 7.8 | from £94.99 |
| Shimano Aerlex 10000 XTB Spod Reel | 7.9 | from £79.99 |
| Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel | 7.6 | from £44.99 |
What Does This Mean?
When we assess the build quality of a fishing reel, we test and review the materials used in manufacturing the reel and how it all comes together in the finished product.
The Aerlex XTB 10000 Spod Reel is constructed with a strong, rugged body made from Shimano’s XT-7 material. This is known to be both resistant and durable.
This high-grade material ensures that the reel can withstand the constant punishment that heavy spodding sessions can bring and also is one of the reasons it features in our guide of top spod reels.
The reels handle is single-machined and made from aluminium which is comfortable to use whether wet or dry. This combination of materials and design reflects Shimano’s renowned reputation of producing long-lasting, high-performance fishing gear.
What Does This Mean?
This part of the review is fairly self-explanatory and focuses on how well the reel casts and how smooth the retrieve is.
Distance isn’t a factor in this assessment whereas accuracy and efficiency is.
On top of the actual, physical performance of the reel we also look at the number and type of ball bearings, the spool, line lay and the gear ratio in comparison to its required use.
With a gear ratio of 5.3:1, the Aerlex XTB 10000 Spod Reel offers a retrieval rate of 115 cm per turn of the handle. I always find that a high-speed retrieval capability is particularly beneficial for spodding, allowing me to bait up quickly and efficiently.
The Aero Wrap II line lay system and AR-C spool design further enhances casting performance, as it helps reduce friction allowing for those precious few extra yards.
My only criticism is the number of ball bearings used in the gearing. Don’t get me wrong, it’s adequate at 2+1 but I feel it’s not quite as smooth as some of its competitors.
What Does This Mean?
When reviewing the drag system on a fishing reel we are testing how smooth the drag is and how convenient it is to use.
There is no bias as to whether a reel has a front or rear drag system, it is solely judged on how smooth it can take out line relative to the amount of pressure that it is being applied.
The Aerlex Spod reel drag system, is like that on many of Shimano’s reels – super smooth. This is handy if you plan to double the reel up with marker work or even to fish with.
It doesn’t have the quick drag function that some of its competitors has unfortunately which is a shame but it’s not really a game changer if you are going to use the reel solely for spodding.
What Does This Mean?
Self-explanatory in terms of an assessment but yet an important part of the review process. This is because it creates more of a level playing field.
Of course, the more expensive a reel is the more quality components it will have and as such will generally score higher.
Having value for money as a criterion allows us to judge how well a reel performs vs its price point and in turn allows us to recognise good-performing reels at bargain prices.
What I really love about the Shimano Aerlex 10000 XTD Spod reel is its price point. It is excellent value for money at around the £80 mark as you get a reel that demonstrates Shimano’s expertise in producing quality reel mechanics at an affordable price.
This makes it a great option for those just starting out in Carp angling and need a dedicated spod reel to do a really decent job without breaking the bank.
Here is a list of pros and cons anglers have found with the Shimano Aerlex 10000 XTD Spod reel:
If you would like to see more fishing tackle reviews as well as compare prices with various tackle shops then you can do so here.
Here is a list of resources we have used as part of putting this review together:
Shimano’s Official Specifications – https://fish.shimano.com/en-GB/product/reels/bigpit_carp/a0710000021tw3uaac_t.html
ADs Tackle Tuesday Review – https://www.anglingdirect.co.uk/community/shimano-aerlex-xtb-reel-tackle-tuesday/
Hi, I’m James
And I have to make a confession: I am addicted to fishing and have been for over 30 years!
As part of my therapy, I’ve started to write about all things angling.
Learn more about me and my company on the about page.
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