This product review video is focused on the Ci4 series of reels made by Shimano (we cover both the Shimano Ci4 2500 and Ci4 3000FA spinning reel series)
To find the Shimano Ci4 model I like best online, here’s a link:
http://www.bit.ly/2bIhTxG
I’ve caught all kinds of saltwater fish with these two Shimano spinning reels. And when fishing for redfish, snook, and trout with artificial lures, having a very light and smooth reel like this is essential.
Why?
Because every ounce of savings in weight you can get will result in much more comfort on a long day of casting.
Since I primarily fish with artificial lures, I always make time to feel the latest and greatest reels whenever possible to see if there are any that I need to purchase.
One of the first lightweight reels that I have been a huge fan of is this Shimano Ci4.
These reels are very lightweight and smooth, while also having impressive drag performance at a whopping 20 lbs for their 2500 and 3000 size reels.
So if you haven’t yet tried one out, I recommend picking one up at a local fishing shop so you can feel how it performs compared to the others.
To find the Shimano Ci4 model I like best online, here’s a link:
http://www.bit.ly/2bIhTxG
For more fishing videos, article, and a fun online tournament series, be sure to check out our website:
Price: $209.99
SHIMANO Stradic C3000FL XG Spinning Fishing Reel, Left/Right Hand Retrieve
HaganeBody - The HAGANE Body is a metal reel body with high rigidity. The body stiffness and impact resistance virtually eliminates body flexing. The result transforms the angler's actions directly into cranking power. It's efficiency through strengt... (as of October 24, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Price: $189.00
SHIMANO SLX DC 150 Baitcast Fishing Reel Right Hand Retrieve 8.2:1 Gear Ratio
(396)
Price: $249.00
SHIMANO Curado DC 150; Lowprofile Baitcasting Freshwater Fishing Reel
SUPERIORITY – The Curado DC low-profile reel is the most advanced of all Curado models. Augmented with Shimano’s all new Digital Control Braking System that builds on the Curado’s legacy of durability; dependability; and versatility CAST SMARTER – Sh... (as of October 24, 2020 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Price:
Shimano Ultegra R8000 SPD-SL Carbon Road Pedals
(876)
That 3000 reel is on my wishlist!
When would you step up to a 4000?
I really wanted to get a new Ci4+ 2500 FB to wade fish the flats but I have found a online retailer that has the Ci4+ 4000 FA for $169. Should I buy last years 4000 EA model for the $169 or should I spend the extra money to get this years Ci4+ 2500 FB?
Took my 2500 out last Saturday for the first time and first cast I threw out that morning landed me my personal best sea trout at 23 1/2 inches!!! Thank you for your review of this reel and love the FG knot you put up as well for braid to leader! Thank you Luke, live Salt Strong, and wet a line today! 🙂
when the new ci4 comes out in a month are u going to get one and do a review
I just picked up the newer model 3000HG that includes the Hagane gear and it is awesome. I hadn’t used the FA model so I look forward to your review of the newer version.
I use shimano sahara can’t afford the stradic
If you were making the purchase and you defiantly have the money to do so would you rather have 2 ci4+ 2500’s or 1 ci4 and 1 2500fk? Im defiantly going to purchase the G. Loomis e6x Inshore 7′ MdHvy Fast Action (1/4-5/8oz) spinning rod. So Im just deciding to have 2 ci4 combos or 1 ci4 and 1 fk. What would you pick? Also both with be spooled with 15lb Power Pro. Thanks and Fish On!
How does anyone feel about Sougayilang reels? I just bought two reels off amazon for 23$ each because why not.
Great review. I have a 4000 and use it in estuaries for Flathead and bream, I also like the Symetry made in Japan,not made in japan anymore though
I love my Ci4 2500. Great reel
What rod is good to pair with this
Am I missing the link you were going to put in here for the reel? Great review by the way.
Good review I use a battle II right now and am very interested in this reel. Never used Shimano reels before so I might try it out.
Great vid! I’ve owned both a Stradic FJ, and an FI. Two of the best reels I’ve ever used (3000 size)! Looks like the new CI4 is about to come out soon! Keep up the awesome videos!
Just ordered my first 2500 from Bass Pro Shops! Can’t wait to put it to good use and catch my first red/snook from my Jackson Cuda 14!
Ci4 or FK? I’m a little weary with the Ci4 not having a metal body. What one do you think would be the one to get?
so the 2500 over the 3000 for inshore?
The last reel I picked up was the Ci4+ 2500FA and since then I have never looked back. Hands down the best reel for the price.
You did the Penn Battle II review 16 months ago. How’s it holding up? You said you’d do a part two review 🙂
I have been reading that the drag washers on the Shimano reels are not very good and should be replaced with Carbontex drag washers. What are your thoughts on this topic? Should the drag washers be replaced on the ci4+?
Fucking hell 50lb tarbon on a 2500
have u tried the Penn clash?
hey quick question im getting a shimano stella fi i have a g loomis greenwater 9000s its a 7 foot 6 inch medium light should i get the 3000 that has 20 pounds of drag or a 2500 it has 8 pounds of drag im dead set on the stella just looking for some help
hey do you know if they made a 2017 series yet???
Should I get a 3000 or 2500 in the new model? I’m fishing for snook, bass, peacock bass, and occasionally redfish and trout