The Shimano Stradic C5000XG has made waves in the fishing community since its recent release, particularly among saltwater lure fishing enthusiasts. With a price point around £220 in the UK, this new spinning reel has attracted attention not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its engineering prowess.
"I have used a bunch of different spinning reels for my saltwater lure fishing over the years, and a select few of them really stick out as being particularly good for various reasons," said fishing expert Henry Gilbey. Reflecting on the previous generation models, Gilbey noted that the Shimano Stradic 2500HG-FL, which he reviewed in 2020, still remains in excellent condition due to proper maintenance. "I learned very quickly to keep a close eye on the line roller assembly and grease it fairly regularly."
"I have used a bunch of different spinning reels for my saltwater lure fishing over the years, and a select few of them really stick out as being particularly good for various reasons,"
Transitioning to the new model, Gilbey expressed enthusiasm about the 2023 Shimano Stradic C5000XG. He acknowledged the competition, including the 2024 Shimano Vanford reels, which boast a lighter build. "For sure the slightly more expensive 2024 Shimano Vanford reels are a bit lighter than their Stradic counterparts, but on balance, I think I’d probably take a Stradic over a Vanford," he said.
"For sure the slightly more expensive 2024 Shimano Vanford reels are a bit lighter than their Stradic counterparts, but on balance, I think I’d probably take a Stradic over a Vanford,"
The design preferences play an essential role in Gilbey's assessment. He elaborated on his discomfort with the Vanford line due to a design choice that affects usability. "I have had nothing but good lure fishing experiences with the previous generation Vanford spinning reels, but for some reason the stem on the reels is a smidgen shorter. It slightly digs into my knuckle that sits to the rear of the reel stem."
Gilbey has not yet tested the newer 2024 Vanford models but stands firmly by the Stradic's design. Upon receiving the Stradic C5000XG, he admitted that he had not used it extensively, hence designating his insights as initial impressions. Despite this, his confidence in the reel's quality is palpable. "This Shimano Stradic C5000XG feels like an incredibly accomplished spinning reel to me so far," he remarked.
"This Shimano Stradic C5000XG feels like an incredibly accomplished spinning reel to me so far,"
Weighing in at 311 grams when loaded with braid, he compared this new model to the classic Penn Slammer IV 2500, noted for its durability at 326 grams. "You can obviously go for a smaller Stradic and save some weight, but the reel feels really good on the sort of lure rods I want to strap it to for my fishing," Gilbey explained.
"You can obviously go for a smaller Stradic and save some weight, but the reel feels really good on the sort of lure rods I want to strap it to for my fishing,"
With every successive generation, Shimano tends to integrate more advanced technology from their higher-end models into newer reels. Gilbey speculated, "Of course there’s a bit of difference fishing with a lighter 2500 Shimano compared to one of their C5000 versions, but unless I am imagining things then this newer 2023 Stradic feels a touch ‘tighter’ than the older one." He elaborated on how the feeling of the handle’s pickup has improved, making the user experience smoother.
Preference plays a significant role in Gilbey's reel selection. "I could have gone for a 4000 size Stradic, but as you know, I prefer a round handle on a spinning reel if at all possible," he shared. The C5000 features a round, rubber handle that has won him over compared to the t-shape handle of the 4000 model.
"I could have gone for a 4000 size Stradic, but as you know, I prefer a round handle on a spinning reel if at all possible,"
Gilbey pointed out the flawless line-lay out of the box, noting, "It will come as no surprise to most of you here that the line-lay was perfect out of the box." He specifically opted for a 150m spool of Varivas Avani Sea Bass line for use with the new C5000XG, indicating a preference for quality gear.
Impact and Legacy
As the fishing community anticipates more impressions and detailed reviews of the Stradic C5000XG, initial feedback underscores its potential for becoming a staple in saltwater fishing tackle. With its blend of design, functionality, and advanced technology, it seems poised to carry on the legacy of its predecessors while continuing to impress seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.
