Shimano Ultegra CI4+ XTC Reel

Name: Shimano Ultegra CI4+ XTC Reel
Brand: Shimano
Price: 239.99 GBP
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (35 reviews)

In stock 4.9/5 35 external reviews from 2 sources 35 reviews

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£239.99 from Total Fishing Tackle

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5 Things To Know

It sits in Shimano's big-pit and surf reel range as a lighter mid-range distance option.
The CI4+ body material keeps weight down while maintaining the rigidity needed for long-cast work.
The Aero Wrap II and Super Slow 5 line lay systems are central to how the reel manages line on the spool.
The 5500 XTC size gives a lighter 440g setup with 105cm retrieve per handle turn.
The Hi-Speed Drag is useful when moving quickly between free-spool tension and playing-fish pressure.

Product Information

The Shimano Ultegra CI4+ XTC Reel is a mid-range big-pit reel for carp and surf anglers who want long-cast technology in a lighter body. Shimano positions the Ultegra CI4+ XTC and XSC in the middle of its big-pit and surf reel line-up.

The key body material is CI4+, Shimano's carbon-reinforced composite. It keeps the reel lighter than a comparable metal body while retaining the rigidity needed for a large-spool distance reel. Casting support comes from the large spool, Parallel Body layout, AR-C spool and 2-Speed Aero Wrap II with Super Slow 5 line lay. Those features focus on controlled line placement and cleaner line release.

The reel also uses HAGANE Gear, X-SHIP, G Free Body, X-Protect and a one-piece bail. These technologies sit around the drive, body balance, water resistance and line path rather than adding unnecessary styling detail.

The 5500 XTC model is listed with a 5.3:1 gear ratio, 15kg maximum drag, 440g weight and 105cm retrieve per handle turn. Shimano also lists 5 + 1 bearings for this size. The Ultegra CI4+ XTC suits anglers who want a lighter distance reel for long sessions, pressured waters and setups where casting feel matters as much as capacity, especially on 10ft to 12ft carp rods or compact big-pit setups.

Features and Specifications

Feature	What this means
Family Type: Big Pit Carp	Built specifically for long-range carp fishing on large open waters. The design prioritises casting distance, line capacity, and smooth retrieval under pressure from big fish.
Bearings: 5 S A-RB + 1 RB	Five of Shimano's shielded anti-rust ball bearings plus one standard roller bearing. More quality bearings generally means a smoother, more fluid retrieve and better long-term durability, especially in wet conditions.
Line Lay: 2-Speed Aero Wrap II, Super Slow 5	A two-speed oscillation system that cross-wraps line evenly across the spool for smoother, longer casts and reduced line bedding. It does not mean the reel has two retrieve speeds.
Quiet Oscillation	The oscillation mechanism operates quietly during the retrieve, so there is less noise on the bank. This is a real benefit when fishing in clear or pressured venues where cautious carp can be spooked easily.
Body Material: CI4+	CI4+ is Shimano's advanced carbon composite material. It is notably lighter than aluminium bodies while remaining rigid and strong, meaning less fatigue during long casting sessions and a reel that holds its shape under load.
Spool Material: Cold-Forged Aluminium	Cold forging produces a denser, stronger aluminium spool than standard casting methods. This gives the spool a harder edge for line to run over cleanly, which helps maximise casting distance and reduces wear over time.
Hagane Gearing	Hagane refers to Shimano's cold-forged metal drive gear. It is built to stay smooth and precise even after prolonged use and heavy loads, so the retrieve feels just as good after a long season as it did when the reel was new.
X-Protect Water Resistance	X-Protect is Shimano's protective system that seals key internal components against water and dirt ingress. It keeps the reel running smoothly in the wet and muddy conditions you regularly encounter on the bank, without the need for constant servicing.
Waterproof Drag	The drag system is sealed to prevent water and grit from getting inside. This means the drag performs consistently and reliably even in rain or when the reel gets submerged, so there are no nasty surprises when a big fish runs.
Handle: Single Machined Aluminium	A single machined aluminium handle is both lightweight and solid, giving a confident, wobble-free grip during the retrieve. It pairs well with the reel's smooth gearing to make winding in line at range feel effortless.
Extra Spool Included	A spare spool comes in the box, which is a genuinely useful addition. You can pre-load it with a different line class or breaking strain and swap it over quickly on the bank, saving you from having to buy a second reel for different setups.