Wired2Fish review
""solid, tank-like reel"" - wired2fish.com's Review
Shimano Bantam MGL Reel
Lowest in-stock price
£199.99
from Total Fishing Tackle
Compared across 2 shops
, with 2 currently in stock
5 Things To Know
- It is a low-profile Shimano baitcaster for predator lure fishing.
- The Coresolid body gives the reel a rigid feel in the hand.
- MGL III spool and SVS Infinity braking help with lure casting control.
- Micromodule gearing and Infinity Drive support smooth winding under load.
- Cross Carbon Drag helps apply steady pressure when fish take line.
Product Information
Shimano's Bantam MGL Reel is a compact low-profile baitcaster for lure anglers who want a strong reel with a solid aluminium feel. It suits predator fishing where casting control, palming comfort and cranking power matter across repeated casts.
The Coresolid body gives the reel a rigid, planted feel in the hand. That is useful when working larger lures, setting hooks firmly or steering fish away from weed and snags. Shimano uses an MGL III spool with SVS Infinity braking, supported by Silent Tune and Super Free Spool. This combination is aimed at easier lure casting, with external brake adjustment for different lure weights and conditions.
Micromodule gearing and Infinity Drive give the retrieve a direct feel under load. The Bantam is not just a finesse reel, so it makes sense with mid to larger predator lures rather than tiny ultralight presentations.
Cross Carbon Drag adds smooth pressure when fish take line, while the double paddle handle keeps the reel comfortable for active lure work. Model options include 6.2:1, 7.1:1 and 8.1:1 ratios. This reel is aimed at predator lure fishing where Shimano build, a solid frame and controlled casting matter for pike, perch and zander work with mid-sized hard lures, soft plastics and spinnerbaits.
Features and Specifications
| Feature | What this means |
|---|---|
| Low-profile baitcaster | The compact body is comfortable to palm through repeated lure casts. |
| Coresolid body | A rigid one-piece style frame gives a solid feel when winding or setting hooks. |
| MGL III spool | Lower spool inertia helps the reel cast a useful spread of lure weights. |
| SVS Infinity braking | External brake adjustment helps tune casting control to the lure and conditions. |
| Silent Tune and Super Free Spool | Spool support is designed to keep casting smooth and controlled. |
| Micromodule Gear | Fine gear meshing gives the retrieve a smooth, connected feel. |
| Infinity Drive | The drivetrain keeps winding power direct when the reel is under load. |
| Cross Carbon Drag | Drag pressure stays controlled when a predator takes line. |
Useful Information
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shimano Bantam MGL Reel for?
It is a low-profile baitcasting reel for lure fishing, especially predator work with mid to larger lures.
Does it use Shimano MGL spool technology?
Yes. Shimano lists an MGL III spool on the current Bantam model.
What braking system does it use?
Shimano lists SVS Infinity braking, with adjustment for different lure weights and conditions.
What fishing style suits it best?
It suits freshwater predator lure fishing where low-profile handling, controlled casting and a rigid frame are useful.
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