Shimano Saragosa Review 2023: A Reliable & Powerful SW Reel

The Shimano Saragosa is the go-to saltwater reel, renowned for its reasonable cost, dependability, and long-lasting design. The Saragosa SW, or SW-A as it’s also known, arrived on the shelves back in 2020, and its features quickly set it apart from other reels.

If you’re looking for a high-performing reel that doesn’t break your wallet, the Shimano Saragosa reel is a perfect choice. It’s priced at around half of what one would pay for a Shimano Twin Power and just about a quarter of that for the Shimano Stella.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each feature of the Shimano Saragosa and why we believe it is one of the best saltwater fishing reels on the market.

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Key Features

Key Features Of The Shimano Saragosa

Infinity Drive:

This revolutionary design allows for smoother winding, as the bearings now support the pinion gear. This new technology has drastically reduced rotational resistance by up to 60%, making it easier than ever before!

Hagane Body:

The Hagane body is made of rigid and durable materials, providing strength and stability to the reel. It allows for greater power transmission and ensures that the gears stay in alignment during use.

Hagane Gears:

The Hagane gears are designed to be extremely strong and durable, providing smooth and efficient performance. They are precision-engineered and provide a high level of gear engagement.

X-Ship:

X-Ship is a system that improves gear durability and enhances the overall performance of the reel. It allows for greater power transmission and ensures that the gears stay in alignment, even under heavy loads.

X-Tough Drag System:

The X-Tough Drag System is designed to provide powerful and smooth drag performance. It features carbon fibre washers that provide consistent pressure throughout the range of drag settings.

Rigid Support Drag

Rigid Support Drag prevents any form of reel spool movement or wobble, even when the drag is set on its lightest level. The outcome? An impressively steady and consistent drag performance, no matter how low you have it adjusted.

X-Protect

To increase water resistance, a triple lip contact-type structure was added to the roller clutch. The first lip successfully blocks any liquid from entering through the gap between the rotor and body. Furthermore, specialised grease is situated within both lips where they make contact with the upper part of the rotary collar, which hinders water infiltration while simultaneously reducing friction levels.

S A-RB Shielded Ball Bearings:

S A-RB shielded ball bearings are specially treated to resist corrosion and provide smooth, long-lasting performance. They are designed to reduce friction and increase efficiency.

Cold-forged Aluminium Spool:

The cold-forged aluminium spool is lightweight and durable, allowing for smooth casting and retrieval. It is designed to withstand heavy use and resist corrosion.

One Piece Bail

Crafted from resilient Stainless Steel, the one-piece bail wire features a seamless design that eliminates any chance of your line snagging when you’re out fishing. Additionally, its low-friction material ensures your line swiftly rolls onto the roller with ease!

Propulsion Line Management System:

The Propulsion Line Management System is a unique design feature that allows for greater casting distance and accuracy. It helps to prevent line tangles and improves line control during retrieval.

X-Shield:

X-Shield is a system that protects the reel from water intrusion, keeping the internal parts dry and functioning smoothly. It is an important feature for saltwater anglers who need a durable and reliable reel.

Anti-Reverse:

The Anti-Reverse system is designed to provide instant hook-setting power and prevent the handle from turning backwards. It is a key feature for anglers who need quick and accurate hook sets.

Arc Spool

The Shimano ARC Spool is distinctive due to its angled spool lip that facilitates line exit with less friction, helping anglers cast longer and more accurately. In addition, it has been tested and shown to reduce backlash and wind knots when using braided fishing lines – a must-have for serious fishermen!

Cross Carbon Drag

Shimano’s incredible carbon drag material allows for a greater selection of drag settings, plus you’ll experience the smoothest Shimano power ever.

Graphite Rotor:

The graphite rotor is a lightweight and durable design feature that provides smooth operation and long-lasting performance. It is used in the 5000-8000 models of the Saragosa SW.

Machined Aluminium Rotors:

The machined aluminium rotors are used in the 10000-25000 models of the Saragosa SW. They are designed to be lightweight and durable, providing smooth and efficient operation even under heavy loads.

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Pros & Cons

Pros & Cons Of The Shimano Saragosa

If you are looking for an exciting day out on the water, then Carrington Wharf should definitely be one of your top choices. With plenty of opportunities for catching various types of fish and beautiful views all around, this spot will provide hours upon hours of fun and relaxation – perfect for those days when all else fails.

Overall Verdict

In conclusion, the Shimano Saragosa reel is absolutely worth the money. It’s durable and reliable, yet affordable, and it performs exceptionally well in any saltwater environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional angler, this reel will provide excellent performance for years to come.

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Price & Value

Price and Value – Is the Shimano Saragosa Reel Worth the Investment?

I have been relying heavily on the Saragosa range since its launch in 2020, and I am blown away by its performance: from that signature drag sound to its amazing durability. Not only is this reel attractive, strong and dependable – it’s also suitable for both land-based fishing as well as offshore fishing of a variety of saltwater species!

It’s fascinating to discover that many features previously exclusive to the Shimano Stella, a higher-end reel, have now trickled down into more affordable fishing reels such as the Shimano Saragosa. The Shimano Saragosa is still a considerable investment, yet if you want your saltwater spinning reel to survive for multiple seasons, then it’s worth the cost. There are few other reels on the market that offer such a high-quality design at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a reliable saltwater reel that won’t break your budget, the Shimano Saragosa is a great choice. This reel is a surefire winner!

(Check out our review of the Shimano Stella SW here.)

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Available Sizes

What Are The Available Sizes of Shimano Saragosa Reel?

The Shimano Saragosa SW reel is a popular choice among saltwater anglers due to its solid construction and reliable performance. One of the key features of this reel is its range of available sizes, which allows anglers to choose the size that best suits their needs and target species. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the different sizes of the Shimano Saragosa SW reel and some potential applications for each.

Shimano Saragosa SW 5000 Review:

The Shimano Saragosa SW 5000 is a powerhouse with a 6.2:1 gear ratio and a maximum drag of 10kgs. This reel stands up to even the toughest fish like snapper, blackfish, jewfish, kingfish, mackerel and more. This reel is suitable for shore or boat fishing with rod lengths ranging from 1.5m – 3.5m so you’ll always have the perfect tool no matter what type of fishing situation you find yourself in!

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 5000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 6000 Review:

This size reel is slightly larger than the 5000 and can be used for similar applications, but with slightly more line capacity (around 12-20 lb mono or 30-65 lb braid) and a 5.7:1 gear ratio.The Shimano Saragosa SW 6000 reel is the perfect companion for beach rods ranging from 10-12 feet in length, with optimal ratings of around 10kg.

The Shimano Saragosa 6000 SW is a perfect reel size to pair with an 8-10ft spin rod for rock fishing. Offshore saltwater boat anglers will find this reel ideal for catching snapper and other reef dwellers, as well as certain varieties of tuna, mackerel and mahi-mahi. This size reel is also great for offshore jigging – just match it with a rod up to 1.5 metres in length!

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 6000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 8000 Review:

The 8000 size is a mid-range reel that can be used for a variety of applications, from inshore to offshore. It has a line capacity of around 4kgs/200 metres mono or 20lbs/245 yards braid, a 5.6:1 gear ratio and a maximum drag of 10kgs, making it suitable for larger inshore species as well as smaller offshore species like kingfish. The 8000 excels for beach fishing with 10-12ft rods rated 8-10kg+, rock fishing on 8-10ft rods at a strength of 8kg+ or ideal offshore boat trips using up to 24 kg rated rods.

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 8000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 10000 Review:

The 10000 has become an incredibly sought-after reel due to its balanced capacity, drag power, and 4.9:1 gear ratio, which make it ideal for both land-based and offshore fishing. Its popularity is no surprise considering how well-suited it is for any angler looking for the perfect all-around piece of equipment. This size reel is well-suited for targeting larger offshore species like GT, tuna or wahoo. It has a line capacity of around 6kgs/300 metres mono or 50lbs/360 yards braid and can handle larger fish due to its stronger 15kgs max drag rating.

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 10000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 14000 Review:

The 14000 size is larger than the 10000 and can be used for similar applications but with even more line capacity (around 10kgs/195 metres mono or 50lbs/400 yards braid) and a 6.2:1 gear ratio. It may be suitable for targeting larger offshore species like shark or marlin. If you are fishing offshore, it is advantageous to retrieve your baited rigs as quickly as possible. The 14000 model usually pairs well with 10-13ft rock/surf rods and most boat rod heavy ratings. This will enable you to get the results that you need faster than ever before!

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 14000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 18000 Review:

This size reel is designed for targeting larger offshore species like bluefin tuna or swordfish. It has a line capacity of around 10kgs/310 metres mono or 50lbs/600 yards braid, a 5.7:1 gear ratio and a strong drag system that can handle the power of these fish.

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 18000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 20000 Review:

The 20000 size is similar to the 18000 but with even more line capacity (around 10kgs/350 metres mono or 65lbs/490 yards braid), and a 4.4:1 gear ratio, this size and up are the most popular sizes for big game offshore fishing. Crafted with jigging for larger pelagic species in mind, these reels stand out for their superior performance. From the beach to offshore, anglers of all varieties use rods with appraised ratings from 10-12ft (for beaches and rocks) up to 37kg for deep sea fishing.

Larger reels such as the 20,000SW are a favourite among those that fish GTs or other northern reef species using poppers – it is powerful enough to handle line classes ranging between 80lb and higher! It may be suitable for targeting even larger offshore species like giant trevally, Amberjacks, Wahoo, GT’s or goliath grouper.

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 20000:

Shimano Saragosa SW 25000 Review:

This is the largest size reel in the Shimano Saragosa SW lineup and is designed for targeting the largest offshore species like blue marlin or yellowfin tuna. It has a line capacity of around 10kgs/420 metres mono or 65lbs/630 yards braid and a powerful drag system to handle these fish. It may be too large for most inshore fishing applications.

Here are the specs for the Shimano Saragosa SW 25000:

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Where To Purchase

Where Can You Purchase a Shimano Saragosa?

The Shimano Saragosa SW reel is a widely available fishing reel that can be purchased from a variety of retailers both in-store and online. Here are some options for purchasing a Shimano Saragosa reel:

Fishing and outdoor retailers:

Many brick-and-mortar stores that specialize in fishing and outdoor gear carry the Shimano Saragosa reel, including Anaconda, BCF, and Tackle Warehouse. You can visit their physical stores or order online from their websites. The disadvantage of purchasing a fishing reel from fishing and outdoor retailers is that their prices may not be as competitive as online retailers like Amazon. Brick-and-mortar stores have higher overhead costs, which can drive up the price of products. Additionally, some stores may not have the same range of sizes or models available as online retailers, limiting your options. However, shopping in-store allows for hands-on gear selection and advice from knowledgeable staff.

Local tackle shops:

Depending on where you live, you may have a local tackle shop that carries the Shimano Saragosa reel. These shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right size and provide advice on rigging and using the reel. The disadvantage of purchasing a fishing reel from local tackle shops is that they may have limited stock and higher prices compared to larger online retailers like Amazon or larger fishing and outdoor retailers due to their smaller scale and higher overhead costs. However, purchasing from local tackle shops supports a small, local business and often allows for a more personalized shopping experience with knowledgeable staff.

Online retailers:

You can also purchase the Shimano Saragosa SW reel from online retailers such as Amazon or eBay. Amazon offers several advantages to anglers looking to purchase a fishing reel. First, it’s a convenient option as you can shop from home instead of driving to a physical store. Additionally, Amazon has a wide selection of fishing reels available, including the Shimano Saragosa SW reel in various sizes. The competitive pricing on Amazon can also help you save money compared to buying from a brick-and-mortar store, and you may be able to take advantage of free shipping or other promotions.

Moreover, customer reviews on Amazon can provide valuable insight into the performance and reliability of the reel, as well as any potential issues or concerns that other customers have experienced. Lastly, Amazon has a hassle-free return policy, which can provide peace of mind when making a purchase online.

It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase, as prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions or sales.

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Alternatives

What Are The Best Shimano Saragosa  Alternatives?

Shimano Spheros SW

For anglers looking for a similar reel at a lower price point, the Shimano Spheros SW is a good alternative to the Saragosa SW. The Spheros SW has many of the same features as the Saragosa SW, such as a waterproof drag system and a durable Hagane body, but costs about 20% less. The Shimano Spheros SW is available in a range of sizes and is designed for saltwater use, making it a great option for anglers who want a high-quality reel without breaking the bank.

Penn Slammer III

Another alternative to the Shimano Saragosa SW reel is the Penn Slammer III. This reel is similarly priced and designed for saltwater use, with a full metal body and side plate construction and an improved drag system. The Penn Slammer III is available in a range of sizes and is a popular choice among anglers who want a durable and reliable reel for their saltwater fishing needs.

Daiwa Saltist

The Daiwa Saltist reel is a good alternative to the Shimano Saragosa SW due to its similar features, durability, and high drag capacity. While the Saragosa is known for its smooth performance, the Daiwa Saltist is also a smooth performer and has Magsealed technology to protect its internal parts. Both reels are similarly priced, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference and individual needs.

Okuma Cedros CJ-65S

For anglers on a tighter budget, the Okuma Cedros CJ-65S reel is a good alternative to the Shimano Saragosa SW. This reel is designed for saltwater use, has a durable aluminum frame, a dual force drag system, and is available at a lower price point than the Saragosa SW or other alternatives. While it may not have all of the features of the more expensive options, the Cedros CJ-65S is still a high-quality reel and is known for its smooth performance, making it a great option for anglers who want to catch a variety of saltwater fish.

Take Away

Ultimately, the best alternative to the Shimano Saragosa SW reel will depend on the angler’s specific needs and budget, but these options provide a range of features and price points to choose from. Whether you decide to go with the Shimano Saragosa SW or an alternative reel, make sure to read customer reviews and compare features and prices before making a purchase. With the right information and research, you can find the perfect reel for your saltwater fishing needs!

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Shimano Saragosa Review 2023 – Final Thoughts

Conclusion

I hope this review has been helpful in giving you an overview of the Shimano Saragosa SW reel and some alternative options. With its waterproof cross-carbon drag system, durable Hagane body, and smooth performance, it is clear why the Saragosa SW is a popular choice among saltwater anglers. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or have specific needs that require different features than what the Saragosa provides, there are plenty of alternatives available at various price points as well. In any case, be sure to do your research before making a purchase so that you can find the right reel for your fishing adventures!

Happy fishing and tight lines!

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