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.
Cast & Retrieve8.5
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.
Drag / Clutch8.5
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.
Value For Money8.5
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.
The Shimano Aero XR Reel has made waves in the UK angling community, promising to blend Shimano’s renowned quality with features tailored for match and feeder fishing.
As part of Shimano’s effort to reclaim their top spot in the UK market, this reel has generated considerable buzz. Let’s dive into what makes the Aero XR stand out.
The Build
Shimano has pulled out all the stops with the Aero XR’s construction. The reel boasts a CI4+ body and rotor, coupled with a HAGANE cold-forged drive gear. This combination results in a remarkably lightweight reel, tipping the scales at just 250g to 260g depending on the model. It’s one of the lightest feeder reels on the market, which is a godsend during those long, cast-heavy sessions.
The build quality is top-notch, with the CI4+ material offering high strength-to-weight ratio. This means you’re getting durability without the added bulk. The HAGANE gear, known for its robustness, ensures that the reel can withstand the rigours of frequent use and heavy loads.
One minor gripe some anglers might have is that the ultralight construction could feel a bit too ‘weak’ for those accustomed to more traditional metal bodies. However, this is more of a perception issue than a functional one.
The lightweight and compact build nature of the Shimano Aero XR Reel
Features
The Aero XR is packed with features that all come together nicely to make it a quality reel. Let’s start with the gear ratio of 4.7:1, which strikes a nice balance between retrieve speed and power. This ratio is particularly well-suited for feeder work, offering sufficient torque for playing larger fish effectively.
The reel comes equipped with 6+1 S A-RB (Shielded Anti-Rust) ball bearings. While some premium models might boast more bearings, the quality here is undeniable, providing smooth operation in both casting and retrieving.
One practical feature is the waterproof front drag system. Although its pretty standard, it does offer precise adjustments even in wet conditions. The ARC long cast aluminium spool is another highlight, designed to reduce friction and improve casting distance, which is particularly beneficial for long-range feeder fishing.
Shimano has also incorporated their SilentDrive and X-Ship technologies. SilentDrive reduces noise and vibration, while X-Ship enhances gear durability and smoothness. These advanced technologies significantly improve the overall fishing experience and give the Aero XR a competitive edge.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Aero XR does well and has scored a credible 8.5 out of 10 when testing its casting ability and retrieve.
The retrieve rate ranges from 75cm to 105cm per handle turn, depending on the model. This is faster than average, proving particularly useful for retrieving line quickly during long casts.
The lightweight nature of the reel becomes apparent during labour intensive sessions that require frequent casting.
The line capacity is ample for most fishing scenarios, with the 3000 model holding 150m of 0.25mm line and the 5000 model accommodating 150m of 0.30mm line.
The well built and well protected drag system on the Shimano Aero XR
Summary & Conclusion
In summary, the Shimano Aero XR Reel is a versatile reel that would suit both beginners looking for quality gear and experienced anglers seeking a reliable, lightweight option for match or feeder fishing.
It proves to be a formidable contender in the mid-range market by successfully combining lightweight design, advanced features, and solid performance into a package that offers excellent value for money.
What Anglers Like (Pros)
Exceptionally lightweight build
High-quality construction with durable CI4+ body and HAGANE gear
Smooth performance enhanced by SilentDrive and X-Ship technologies
Good value for money
What Anglers Dislike (Cons)
Some anglers have said that the Ultralight construction feels ‘less premium’.
Bearing count, while sufficient, is lower than some high-end models
