Shimano Sienna Review 2024

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

Shimano Sienna Reel: Smooth, Sturdy and Built for Big Catches

Quick Summary
Captivating, practical, and performance-driven, these are just a few words that come to mind when you think of Shimano Sienna reels. But have you ever truly considered what makes this piece of equipment a game-changer for every fishing enthusiast?

The Shimano Sienna reel has carved a niche for itself in the world of fishing gear, balancing sophistication and functionality in a way that few others can. An investment in superior, top-notch performance that has been designed to enhance your fishing experience to the next level.

Why should you buy a Shimano Sienna reel, you ask? How about unrivaled smoothness in casting and retrieving, a robust build that defies the harshest elements, and an affordable price that doesn’t make your wallet feel lighter? This reel is more than just a tool; it’s your partner in creating memorable fishing experiences, and this article will guide you through its benefits, making it clear why this purchase is a must.

Almost every fishing enthusiast knows that there is no limit to the amount you want to spend on fishing equipment. But is the most expensive equipment always the best? Today we got you a reel that will prove that this is not the case.

In this article, we’ll review one of the best budget reels on the market, the Shimano Sienna. It is attractively priced, yet competes with reels at two or even three times the price. Head downstairs and find out why Sienna is so good and worth the money!

🎦Video YouTube: Shimano Sienna 4000 Review – One Year Of Big Fish

SHIMANO Sienna Spinning Reels

SHIMANO Sienna Spinning Reels

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Specifications

The Shimano Sienna is available in two versions: with front and rear drag. The reel comes in 4 sizes. You can choose any: 500, 1000, 2500, or the largest – 4000. The largest size can catch any large freshwater and even some types of saltwater fish. The Shimano Sienna is fully saltwater-friendly and is designed to be used with any line, mono or braided.

 Front Drag & Rear Drag Versions Pros And Cons

The FD and RD versions of the reel have many similar characteristics, but still, slightly differ. If you do not know which type of these two to choose, then here we have presented the differences between these two-reel versions.

Front Drag:

  • Has a power roller
  • Weighs 6 to 12.2 ounces
  • Drag power from 4 to 13 lbs
  • Retrieve per turn is 25 to 32 inches

Rear Drag:

  • Has no power roller
  • Weighs 8.3 to 13 ounces
  • Drag power from 7 to 15 lbs

Both models have 4 (3 balls and 1 roller) bearings. FD offers you three models, and RD offers four.

What Type Of Drag Should I Choose?

Both front and rear drag models seem to look pretty identical, so you might have trouble making your choice. In general, the front drag is slightly smoother than the rear drag. In addition, you get a wide range of specific models to choose from, since FDs are more popular.

On the other hand, rear drag reels are much easier and more convenient to use when fighting fish, as you see the reel at the beginning. Besides, RD reels are often considered to be of higher quality among low-end reels.

Sienna is inexpensive, but we cannot classify it as a low-end reel, so you can ignore this disadvantage. When used, both models, both RD and FD, performed very well. The front drag Sienna is more popular, but that doesn’t mean your choice should be based on that. Choose the type of reel that suits you best.

Shimano Sienna Highlights

All models of this reel use Super Stopper II technology. This allows you to get instant reversals and minimize backlash. Also, each reel includes a Propulsion Line Management system for longer casts and elimination of backlash. The reels are made of graphite, so they are quite cheap. The frame, side plate, and rotor are made of graphite. But at the same time, they are quite durable and do not play. The spool is made of aluminum. The reel has a perforated shaft and Dyna-Balance knobs.

Power Roller

This is one of the best and most unique features of the Shimano Sienna Front Drag. As you know, almost all spinning reels have the same problem – line twisting. The special design secures the line securely to the reel without creating kinks and twists during casting. Also, models with a front drag have a propulsion spool lip with an S guard and an S arm cam.

Line Varispeed Oscillation

This is a key feature of the rear drag Sienna. Varispeed is a technology that gives your reel a constant speed, which means that the line is laid evenly on the spool. With a flat lay, you will be able to control the line much more easily and make longer casts. This is an especially good option for anglers who prefer rear drag models. As there are generally fewer options available.

Comparison With Other Models From Shimano

Shimano produces a lot of reels and the Sienna is in the lower price range. For comparison – a little higher than the Sienna, there are such reels as Shimano Ci4 and Stradic FJ. While these two models offer more durability and longer casting, the Sienna has a lot in common with its expensive counterparts. All reels, including the Sienna, are made of graphite and aluminum and are very lightweight and durable.

This prevents the reel from rusting and allows you to use it for many years. Besides, the Shimano Sienna uses much of the same technology as the more expensive reels. This includes Dyna-Balance, Super Stopper II, Varispeed, and more. This is what makes the Sienna stand out from the competition. It is very difficult to find a similar reel with such technologies for such a price. So the Sienna is a very powerful budget fishing model.

Shimano Sienna Comparison With Reels Of Other Brands

Compared to other brands, Shimano Sienna is approximately at the same level as Pflueger’s President. This reel is in the same price range as Shimano. Anyway, Sienna has a slight advantage over the President. Because the Shimano model has a smoother and more stable cast and is slightly cheaper than the President.

Our Thoughts On Shimano Sienna

The Shimano Sienna is in the lower price range and costs less than $50 depending on the model. You are unlikely to find something better and more productive than Sienna in a discount store near your home. We love the lightweight, durable and rustproof construction of the reel, and the ease of cleaning and use. At the very least, cleaning Front Drag will be very easy for you.

Sienna casts and spins very smoothly and comfortably. We have never noticed that the reel makes a lot of noise or vibrates during operation. During some small noises or vibrations, we simply cleaned and lubricated the reel, and it became silent again. Besides, this unit is designed for use in saltwater, which we really liked. Just remember to clean it thoroughly after using it in saltwater. Sienna’s durability is one of its main advantages.

This reel fulfills all the requirements an angler needs. It is very durable, lightweight, and smooth. Shimano is the company that allows you to get a quality reel at an affordable price. There is, of course, a difference between the Sienna and the more expensive reels. The more expensive reels will be sleeker in some aspects, but overall, the Shimano Sienna is one of the best reels in the cheaper price segment.

Pros
  • Suitable for all-weather, salt, and freshwater

  • A proven reel that has been in use for over 15 years

  • Has many modifications and improvements

  • Compact body

  • Computerized gear adjustment

  • Good line control

  • Very balanced

  • Casting very far

  • There is almost no backlash Instant anti-reverse technology

Cons
  • The body brings the rod closer to the palm of your hand, which takes some getting used to

  • Difficult to get maximum drag strength at the beginning

❓ FAQ About Shimano Sienna Reel

In this section, we have collected the most frequently asked questions about the Shimano Sienna reel and any of its versions. If you are interested in something, then most likely you will find the answer to your question below.

What is the reel's maximum drag power?
Shimano Sienna has a maximum drag power of 18.5 lbs.
Does the Sienna come with an extra spool?
No, the basic package does not contain an additional spool. You will have to purchase it additionally.
Can I use this reel for inshore fishing?
The reel can be used in all kinds of fishing conditions. Including inshore fishing. Besides, there is no backlash, solid construction, and winding protection technology to help you a lot onshore.
Does the reel have a double-sided handle?
Yes, the reel is designed to be used by both left-handers and right-handers.
What is the gear ratio of this reel?
It depends on the specific reel model. For the 4000 model, the gear ratio is 5:1. For 1000 and 2500 models, the gear ratio is 5:2. The smaller the reel model, the larger the gear ratio.
Does the reel fit a 7’ medium-fast rod?
Yes, the Sienna works great with many rod lengths and types. If you mount it on a medium-fast 7′ rod, you will get excellent balance and casting distance.
How many bearings does this reel have?
Shimano Sienna has 3 ball bearings and 1 roller bearing.
How often should the Shimano Sienna reel be cleaned?
Sienna is suitable for use in both salt and fresh water. We recommend that you clean the reel every time you fish. Since in any water the reel gets dirty with small particles that float in the water. Saltwater can also damage your internal reel components, so regularly disassemble and clean your reel after each use.
Why should I choose a spinning reel?
Spinning reels have many advantages for the angler. They are very easy to use and maintain. This is the most popular type of reel because it attracts fishermen with its simplicity and elegance. If you are looking for long casts and perfect lure control, then most likely spinning reels are not for you. In this case, it is better to look for bait-casters. But if you want to fish with lighter lures and lines, then it is better to use a spinning reel and rod. Spinning reels are great for small to medium-sized lures. You get a lot more control over all your lures if you use a spinning reel. In addition, the spinning reels are reliable for most types of fish. It takes much less time to learn how to use a spinning reel. Plus, spinning reels don’t have any backlash or casting problems like many bait casters.
Why Should I Choose A Reel From Shimano?
Shimano is a time-tested company and has been in the fishing equipment market for a very long time. Shimano has been making a fishing tackle for 100 years. They started with bicycle parts in 1921 and slowly but surely evolved. It was their high-quality parts manufacturing that allowed them to quickly move into some of their best fishing products.

Shimano reels are used every year in world fishing competitions, and professionals using Shimano equipment collect awards in these competitions every year. Their world-renowned reels use the very best manufacturing techniques. For example, high-efficiency gearing (HEG), Dyna-Balance grips, or Super Stopper anti-reverse technology.

Shimano reels are evolving every year and the company continues to release more improved and modified reels to meet all the needs of anglers. Today there is no fish that would be impossible to catch with a Shimano reel. It doesn’t matter where you fish – in fresh or saltwater, on the shore, or from a boat, you can catch any fish. All you have to do is find the reel that suits your exact needs.

In Conclusion

Shimano Sienna is one of the best reels available in the lower price segment. Most other reels at the same price are likely to be cheap Chinese plastic, with a backlash that will rust and eventually break. With Sienna, everything is completely different. The graphite-aluminum construction is extremely robust and resistant to corrosion and saltwater. This is one of those reels that will last for years.

This product isn’t just for anglers looking for a cheap reel. but also for those who take fishing seriously. The Sienna has all the same professional features as the more expensive Shimano reels. Super Stopper II and Dyna-Balance are just the beginning of the list of useful features in this reel. And these features are available to you at a very low cost.

The best fishing gear isn’t always the most expensive. And SHIMANO Sienna Spinning Reels confirms this. It is a sturdy and smooth spinning reel that is suitable for both salt and fresh water. Plus, you get a lot of useful features from Shimano that are found in more expensive reels as well. We highly recommend this reel for purchase and consider it one of the best for this price.

Tags: #shimano sienna / #shimano sienna review / #shimano sienna 2500 review / #shimano sienna 4000fd review / #shimano sienna 1000 / #shimano sienna 500fd review

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

Affiliate Disclosure: FishReeler.org sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Ebay, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shop, Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, Renn, Okuma, KastKing, etс. Clicking a link helps keep FishReeler.org free, at no extra cost to you!

About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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TechCluster_Fish
TechCluster_Fish
11 months ago

No matter what your skill level is, the Shimano Sienna is an excellent choice when it comes to finding a reliable yet powerful fishing reel. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort even on those long days out on the water, while its smooth drag system helps you bring in more catches with ease. Check it out today!

Robotik_QQ
Robotik_QQ
11 months ago

If you’re looking for a high-performance fishing reel, then the Shimano Sienna is the one for you. It’s lightweight yet powerful, with a smooth drag system that will make sure you don’t miss any catches. Highly recommended!

I have to agree with you on the Shimano Sienna! For its price point of $30, it’s a solid reel that performs well and is durable. I actually own a couple myself and they’ve held up nicely over time.

If you’re willing to bump up your budget to around $50, I’d recommend checking out the Okuma Ceymar or the Diawa Revros LT. Both reels are great options and offer excellent performance for their price.

However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more at around $60, I would highly recommend the Diawa Regal LT. In my opinion, it’s the best value reel you can get for under $100. Diawa spinning reels are all based on the same design, but with small upgrades here and there. Unless you need a sealed reel for saltwater fishing, the Diawa Regal LT is the best ultralight spinning reel option available for its price point.

Overall, there are plenty of great reel options out there that won’t break the bank. It just comes down to your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a reel.

Megalith_tt
Megalith_tt
11 months ago

I couldn’t agree more! The Shimano Sienna is an exceptional reel for its price. I personally use the Sienna and it performs incredibly well, with a smooth feel and comfortable handling. Even my friend, who uses reels that cost over $100, says that my Sienna doesn’t feel cheap or low-quality for what I paid.

If you’re looking for an even better deal, you can find the Shimano Sienna for just $20 on Amazon sporting goods, and they even offer free shipping. It’s definitely a great way to save a few bucks and still get a fantastic reel that will serve you well on your fishing trips.

All in all, the Shimano Sienna is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a high-quality reel without breaking the bank. Its reliable performance and affordable price make it a top contender in the market, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a new fishing reel.

Ogondo Janzeta
Ogondo Janzeta
11 months ago

The Shimano Sienna reel is the perfect choice for anglers looking for a reliable and powerful fishing tool. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable to use all day long, and its smooth drag system allows you to easily reel in your catches. Definitely worth investing in!

I wholeheartedly encourage you to put the Shimano Sienna to the test! Go ahead and beat it up, tire out the drag, and don’t worry if it fails – after all, it’s an affordable reel that can easily be replaced. Personally, I’ve used this reel for carp fishing and it has served me well without any issues.

In my opinion, the Shimano Sienna is a fantastic reel for its price. It’s a great option for those who want a reliable and high-quality reel without breaking the bank. The only downside I can think of is that it’s a bit bulky, but that doesn’t take away from its overall performance.

One of the best things about the Shimano Sienna is that it makes for a fantastic trunk rod reel. It’s compact and versatile, so it’s perfect for impromptu fishing trips when the urge hits you on the road.

All things considered, the Shimano Sienna is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable reel. It can handle a variety of fishing styles and is well worth the investment for anyone looking to upgrade their gear.

Yotunem Franbixa
Yotunem Franbixa
11 months ago

For reliable power, look no further than the Shimano Sienna reel. Its lightweight construction makes it suitable for long days in the water and its smooth drag system will help you catch more fish with less effort. A must-have for any serious angler!

I’ve had experience with an older model of the Shimano Sienna and while it’s mechanically sound, it does feel like it’s made with lower-quality parts. However, I can confidently say that I absolutely adore my Shimano Sahara. Even after 10+ years of use, it still operates as smoothly as the day I bought it.

In my opinion, the Shimano Sahara is a top-of-the-line spinning reel that’s well worth the investment. Its construction is solid, with high-quality components that ensure a smooth and reliable performance. It’s definitely a testament to Shimano’s reputation for producing top-quality fishing gear.

While I can’t speak for the newer models of the Shimano Sienna, I do highly recommend the Shimano Sahara for anyone who wants a dependable and long-lasting spinning reel. It’s been my go-to for over a decade and I have no doubt it will continue to serve me well for years to come.

Praxtoner Lastinum
Praxtoner Lastinum
11 months ago

The Shimano Sienna is a great choice for any angler who wants a reliable and powerful reel. It’s lightweight, yet still packs a punch with its smooth drag system that helps you bring in more catches. Definitely worth checking out!

Cyramus Qaavusm
Cyramus Qaavusm
11 months ago

The Shimano Sienna reel is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful fishing reel. Its lightweight design ensures you can use it comfortably all day long, while the smooth drag system allows you to catch more fish with ease. Highly recommended!

Blaston Gracilyn
Blaston Gracilyn
11 months ago

I recently had the opportunity to test out the Shimano Sienna FG 4000 spinning reel, and I have to say, it’s a well-made and balanced reel that’s worth considering.

One of the things I appreciated about the Shimano Sienna is its M-compact body, which gives anglers the support they need for deep and long casting. It’s a top-ranking product in the store for a reason.

While the Shimano Sienna is an entry-level reel that doesn’t have all the fancy features of a high-end option, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a cheap reel that won’t break when you’re out fishing for panfish a few times a year.

In my test, I paired the Shimano Sienna with an Ugly Stik Platinum Spinning Rod that was around 7 feet long and relatively lightweight. I spooled it with a 10 lb monofilament fishing line and headed to my local fishing spot to put it to the test.

One thing that took some time to get used to was finding the anti-reverse switch, which is small and black and almost impossible to see without my glasses. However, once I found it, I was able to cast a small lure and assess the reel’s performance.

Overall, I would say that the Shimano Sienna is a good value-for-money option that is well-constructed for its price range. While there are certainly better reels out there, few can match the Shimano Sienna’s quality at the same price point. If you’re on a budget and looking for a spinning reel that won’t let you down, the Shimano Sienna is definitely worth considering.

Drustel Robustus
Drustel Robustus
11 months ago

I completely agree with you on the versatility of the Shimano Sienna Fishing Reel. I also keep a couple of rods rigged for different types of lures and having a backup reel is always helpful.

One of the best things about the Shimano Sienna is its affordability, without compromising on quality. It’s great to have a reliable reel that doesn’t break the bank, especially when you need to replace your gear.

Another great use for the Shimano Sienna is as a main spinning reel for a telescopic fishing rod or travel outfit. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for fitting in a backpack or small suitcase for those on-the-go fishing trips.

Overall, the Shimano Sienna offers excellent value for its price range and is a dependable option for any angler looking for an affordable, yet reliable spinning reel.

Anarthian Vansolfo
Anarthian Vansolfo
11 months ago

I couldn’t agree more! The Shimano Sienna is definitely one of the most underrated affordable reels on the market. I love how it performs just as well as some of the more expensive reels, but at a fraction of the cost. The fact that Shimano offers a 10-year warranty on this reel just goes to show how confident they are in its quality. This Sienna reel is like a Shimano Stradic for the poor.

I personally use a Sienna 2000 paired with an Arrowz Bream Crank rod, and it has exceeded my expectations. The drag is incredibly smooth, and I can cast long distances with ease. It also has a steady retrieve that makes reeling in a joy. I’ve even caught fish up to 37cm without any issues.

I rate this reel so highly that I am even considering purchasing a Sienna 4000 for catching larger fish like Barra and Cod. In my opinion, the Shimano Sienna is a must-have reel for any angler looking for a great product that won’t break the bank.

Additionally, the Sienna is built with a highly durable M-Compact body design and features Shimano’s Varispeed Oscillation technology that ensures an even line lay and helps to prevent wind knots. The Dyna-Balance feature also eliminates wobble during the retrieve, making it incredibly smooth.

As mentioned, the Sienna is an affordable reel that is often overlooked due to its low price point, but it is a great option for anglers on a budget. The 10-year warranty that Shimano provides speaks volumes about their confidence in the product’s durability and quality.

In my experience, the Sienna has exceeded my expectations and has been a reliable and high-performing reel. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a good-quality reel without breaking the bank.