Ultralight spinning rods Shimano

Production

The rod manufacturer Shimano Catana was founded back in 1921 . At first the company produced spare parts for bicycles.

And in the 70s, it began producing fishing accessories. Today, this company has become one of the world leaders in this industry. Shimano Catana spinning rods are incredibly popular all over the world due to their excellent product quality and attractive design.

Shimano Catana fishing rods from Japan in the price category belong to the budget and middle class. In the line of these products you can find gear designed for different fishing styles and directions.

Flaws

Despite the many advantages of the Shimano Katana line, fishermen also note a number of disadvantages that are inherent in these “sticks”. Trying to get the cheapest possible fishing rod, the manufacturer is forced to use lower quality materials. As a result, spinning rods are inferior to more expensive series.

The Shimano Catana rod resists bending stress well, but is weak under torsion. In addition, minor shock loads that occur during contact with the sides of the boat, branches on the shore or other “rod” can negatively affect the form.

Passing rings on Katana are of decent quality

To reduce the cost of the spinning rod, they do not put rings from the famous manufacturer Fuji on its blank. The handle and reel seat are made in a classic style, so the fishing rod does not always fit comfortably in the hand. While beginners may not pay attention to this nuance, seasoned anglers who have fished with a large number of different types of rods speak negatively about this little detail.

Materials for the production of Shimano Catana fishing rods

Spinning rods of this brand are made from the following materials:

We also recommend reading:

Spinning budget reels Riobi Exiya Model range of Salmo wobblers and the Salmo Hornet catalog Features of crucian carp killer gear and how to make such equipment How to properly tie a jig to a fishing line

• fiberglass - these spinning rods are inexpensive and require special care. The key disadvantage is the weight; you can get tired while fishing and trolling;
• composite material - glass fiber is added to carbon fiber, the products have the same disadvantage as fiberglass ones - heavy weight. It is recommended to purchase them when carbon rods are very expensive for you;
• carbon fiber (carbon, graphite or carbon fiber) - the most common spinning rods are made from this part. In the production of a fishing rod for the base (blank), a semi-finished product is used in the form of a carbon fiber cloth, which is impregnated with binding resins. There are quite a few spinning rods made from this material on sale, of which you can purchase the most budget-friendly and high-quality models.

Gallery: Shimano Catana spinning rods (25 photos)

Product marking

The marking on these products (1, 2 or 3) indicates the presence of graphite in the composition . The smaller the module, the greater the flexibility, but increasing it will not only be expensive, but can also negatively affect the quality of the spinning rod. The most optimal range is from M4 to M6.

A very important parameter is the structure of products, which refers to the ability of the base to bend under the influence of load. There are three types of construction:

• fast;
• average;
• slow.

Key characteristics and distinctive features of Shimano Catana rods

A distinctive feature of the Shimano Catana product line is that modern technologies are actively used in their production. We will talk about them in detail below:

• use of unique modern material 3M Powerlux Composites . Without exaggeration, it can be called advanced in the field of fishing tackle production. It is unique in that it contains silica nanoparticles. These parts are capable of enveloping the fibers of the fishing rod. The properties of this material resemble resin, and due to the presence of nanoparticles it has additional strength;
• All Shimano Catana rods are made on the basis of carbon fiber (aka carbon) of different classes. The higher it is, the denser the structure of the material will be, and this, in turn, provides the product with greater strength;
• the use of high-pressure carbon, which has a fairly dense structure. It is manufactured using high temperature and high pressure;
• during production, a little resin is added to carbon fiber, as a result of which the rods have less weight compared to those produced by other manufacturers, while the sensitivity will be higher;
• the presence of Biofibre in the composition allows spinning rods to be made more resistant to different loads, as a result they will be lighter;
• Shimano Catana rods have progressive special guides, thanks to which there will be less line friction and casting will be lighter and thinner;
• application of Vibrasoft technology in production. It is well implemented in the development and manufacture of handles for spinning rods. The key feature of this technology is that the grip is light and comfortable, and during fishing you can feel even the slightest change in the operation of the bait;
• the presence of Hard Lite guides, which are made on a ceramic basis according to the Aero Guide concept, and this greatly improves the dynamic casting qualities.

Shimano Catana spinning rods

19:06, November 21, 2021 Like 0 13

The well-known brand “Shimano” from Japan holds a strong leading position among global companies producing fishing equipment. The high quality of gear is due to the use of innovative technologies and materials in the production process. Japanese spinning rods meet all the requirements of bait fishing. This explains their popularity among fishermen.

Pros and cons of carbon rods

Japanese spinning rods have the following advantages:

• made of lightweight plastic materials;
• ability to withstand heavy loads.

There are also disadvantages:

• high price;
• easily destroyed by mechanical stress;
• The strength of the product is significantly reduced with repeated alternating cooling and increasing temperature, which cannot be avoided in Russian weather conditions.

Features of Shimano Catana rods

The spinning rods are made of Geofibre material. Thanks to him, manufacturers were able to produce strong fishing rods with a large reserve of power at a price affordable for the average spinning angler.

The handle design is super sensitive. Its front part is equipped with a recess that exposes the form.

The finger is conveniently located in the recess, which allows you to feel even the most minimal change in the wiring, a barely noticeable bite and the touch of the bait to the bottom of the river.

How to catch more fish?

I have been active fishing for quite some time and have found many ways to improve the bite. And here are the most effective:

1. Bite activator. Attracts fish in cold and warm water with the help of pheromones included in the composition and stimulates its appetite. It’s a pity that Rosprirodnadzor wants to impose a ban on its sale.
2. More sensitive gear. Reviews and instructions for other types of gear can be found on the pages of my website.
3. Lures using pheromones.

You can get the rest of the secrets of successful fishing for free by reading our other articles on the site.

Spinning rods produced in Japan have a complex form. In the process of forced fishing, the load is placed evenly from the tip to the handle. The fisherman has the opportunity to drag quite large fish ashore.

The design has comfortable and laconic rings and an ergonomic reel seat. All spinning rods are characterized by targeted casting of complementary foods.

Description of Shimano Catana models

Regardless of the model, the main characteristics of Shimano Catana rods are:

• number of access rings – 7-8 pieces;
• spinning rod length ranges from 165 to 300 cm;
• test – 1-100 grams.

Different models differ slightly from each other:

• Shimano Catana Telespin - they are used for ultralight fishing using the lightest baits;
• Super Sensitive - two-piece designs, also designed for fishing with light lures
• Vibraspot – this model has a comfortable front part of the handle, making it very convenient to grip the rod when casting. The handle helps you feel the turn and every lunge of the fish; it is very convenient to use when fishing with braided fishing line;
• Shimano Alivio - this spinning rod is well suited for beginners who are just learning the basics of spinning fishing. Made from elastic and lightweight material. Its length is 210-330 cm, throwing weight is from 5 to 50 grams.

Shimano Catana telescopic spinning rods and model features

Telescopic models of this brand can be confidently called an excellent price-quality ratio.

As an example of a telescopic spinning rod, we give the example of Shimano Catana CX TELESPIN 240ML. This is a compact telescopic model that has the following parameters:

• length 240 cm;
• weight – 149 grams, in transport condition it is reduced to 62 cm.

The telescopic fishing rod is made on the basis of geofiber, composite composition and XT40 or XT30, as well as six rings and sections.

Shimano Catana spinning rod reviews

In my arsenal I have a Shimano Catana CX 270 ML spinning rod with a dough of 7-21 g. The rod is made of carbon in combination with geofiber, has a length of 270 cm, two-section, fast action. Comfortable handle made of natural cork.

7 passage rings of very high quality, mounted directly into the form. Its weight is 210 grams. The length in transport condition is 140 cm, which is not very convenient for me, since it only fits diagonally into the trunk of the Niva, and this is risky.

You have to carry it on the roof.

The rod came in a fabric case. The price is something around 100 dollars. It has been serving me for 4 years now, in principle, I can say that it has practically justified itself. The spinning rod is quite sensitive, but at the same time it does not shake after casting, the butt is strong and does not vibrate. The test allows you to cast the widest range of baits.

At the same time, I would like to note that, despite the upper limit of the test being 21 grams, you can safely throw heavier baits with it, which I have done repeatedly. This did not cause any visible harm to the rod, although, perhaps, it should not be abused. For some reason, the manufacturer specifies such a test. As for the lower limit, fishing with baits lighter than 5 grams is very problematic.

Advantages and disadvantages of Shimano Catana rods

The advantages of this brand of gear are:

• good reel seats;
• comfortable handle;
• good production material (fiberglass).

But these products also have their drawbacks:

• approximately 2-3 years after the start of operation, the handle begins to rotate;
• in cold weather, your hands may freeze;
• sensitivity is insufficient, but this assessment is more subjective than objective.

average cost

As we have already mentioned, spinning rods of this brand belong to the middle price category. They can be purchased at a price from 5 to 10 thousand rubles . When purchasing a spinning rod, you should take into account its length, and also ensure that the product is of high quality.

Poor quality spinning rods are equipped with lighter-colored handles, and they also lack the inscription in the form of the Shimano company logo. You can purchase the model in specialized fishing stores or online.

The cost of Shimano Catana brand products is lower compared to similar spinning rods from other manufacturers. Both beginners and experienced fishing enthusiasts respond very well to them.

For the first time, it is better to choose products with average characteristics, so you can decide for yourself whether it will suit you in the future.

Shimano Catana device

Since we are talking about the most popular and sought-after model, it is more advisable to consider in detail the design of the coil and understand the details. The Shimano Catana reel is equipped with one bearing, a spool made of aluminum, and a line-laying mechanism with a special device. They come in a variety of vibrant colors.

Elements that form the basis of the design:

1. Spool (usually aluminum).
2. Button for removing the bobbin.
3. Line brace.
4. A clamp that helps secure the free end of the fishing line.
5. Leash.
6. Lever.
7. Basic body.
8. Brake.
9. A switch that provides a reverse stop.
10. Line roller.

1000 version

Shimano Catana has several different reel versions in its range. 1000 is the size of the coil. This size is for light weights (for bait). It has a planetary type mechanism. Designed for spinning, has an additional graphite spool. Very often, anglers choose a red reel color. Indeed, this color attracts attention and goes very well with all the things you need for fishing.

2500 version

Catana FC is a quality reel. The big advantage is the availability of different versions. In its structure, version 2500 has 2 ball and 1 roller type bearings.

Running the 2500 version will provide reliable performance as well as a smooth ride you can rely on. Also in the 2500 model there is an aluminum spool. Thanks to this spool, the reel model works perfectly. Catana FC will do an excellent job with light fishing lines as well.

4000 version

Shimano Catana 4000 version is released in a more rigid body. The main spool, as in other versions, remains aluminum, but is cold forged. Undoubtedly, it was released in improved condition and with new developments.

However, what cannot but please fishing enthusiasts is the previous price, which has remained unchanged.

You can be confident in quality and reliability. Ease of maintenance is also a big advantage.

The mechanism of this version is made according to a planetary type scheme. The material from which the reel is made is very durable, reliable and ready for any test.