If you have been fishing for a long time, then you probably know how important high-quality equipment is in this occupation. It is not worth saving on fishing tackle. Knowledgeable fishermen prefer a worldwide brand because they are confident in their quality. Today we will talk about the well-known company Shimano, and more specifically about its Shimano Spheros SW fishing reel.
Shimano is the #1 fishing equipment manufacturer. Shimano fishing gear is in demand all over the world. They are reliable, functional, and durable. If you are in search of a spinning reel right now, then be sure to read this Shimano Spheros SW review.
Shimano Spheros SW 3000 4000 Saltwater Spinning Reel Review
The Shimano Spheros SW fishing reel is the largest, most powerful model of the entire line. The reel debuted 18 years, and the manufacturer singled out power sea fishing as the target operating conditions, as indicated by the letters SW (saltwater). The reel is also suitable for power fishing scenarios in freshwaters: catching a trophy predator, power feeder fishing.
The new Spheros SW reel is Shimano’s entry-level saltwater spinning reel. It has many of the features found in more expensive models, such as an X-Ship gear system for maximum power and efficiency, a hybrid body, and cross carbon drag.
Spheros SW in sizes C3000-3000-4000 is a new reel in the line of spinning reels for SW.
It has been specially designed for coastal casting: the reel features a robust HAGANE and X-SHIP transmission, an aluminum HAGANE body, Cross Carbon brake discs, and CORE PROTECT technology. This makes the reel extremely robust and reliable.
The Spheros SW is the first dedicated SW reel that is available in smaller sizes at a very affordable price.
Features
Hagane Gear – High-strength cold-forged aluminum drive. The Hagane drive is produced using Shimano cold forging technology and does not require any additional processing. This ensures smooth operation, strength, and a lightness of construction. Shimano uses state-of-the-art technology to create incredibly smooth-running, lightness, and the amazing power in reels that you feel right away and want to use the reel again and again. The pinion surface is designed in great detail using a special 3D design program and then formed using Shimano cold forging technology. The strength and grip of forged metal continue to represent the core concept of Shimano reels.
XShip is a combination of parts that work together to create much more efficiency. By placing the drive gear closer to the centerline of the large diameter drive gear, more power is transferred from the handle to the rotor. The drive gear is also supported by two ARB roller bearings. This creates more resilience.
Hagane Body – High rigidity metal body. The HAGANE Body is made of high rigidity aluminum or magnesium alloy. This ensures the body is rigid and shock-resistant, eliminating deformation under heavy loads. As a result, the internal mechanism is more efficient.
CoreProtect – This provides less stress on the angler and maximum protection. There are main areas that need protection:
- This is the most critical area when it comes to finding the balance between resistance and performance. It was possible to achieve excellent water resistance without losing the lightness and smoothness of rotation. That is, in this area, water is prevented from entering the mechanisms.
- The main body is protected by a series of 12 different surface-coated seals with the new STELLA after 2014, the production of such a sealed structure, which ensures water-tightness and no need for maintenance, continues. The sealed design does not require regular lubrication of the mechanism.
ARC Spool – Shimano AR-C spools patented spool with angled spool lip. The design allows the line to feed the spool with less friction and in smaller rings, resulting in longer, more accurate casts. Proven by testing, AR-C spools reduce sag and wind knots when using braided lines. AR-C spools are now standard on nearly all Shimano reels.
S ARB – Shimano A-RB Bearings – Corrosion-resistant ball bearings with additional shielding for increased protection from sand, salt and dust. S A-RB bearings are used in reels designed for saltwater service.
Cold Forged Aluminum – These spools are cold-forged from aluminum alloys. This material creates a lightweight spool with an increased structural hardness that is more resistant to wear and tear.
DynaBalance – Dynamic balance reduces swing during pulling by counterbalancing the rotor for increased sensitivity and smoothness. By using computer balancing, Shimano engineers were able to redistribute the rotor weight so that vibration was virtually zero.
Floating Shaft II – The main frictional assembly in the spool is the spool and pinion joint. Shimano’s designers overcame this by reducing the contact patch, and also introduced bearings on both sides of the shaft into the design, which significantly increased the durability of the mechanism.
Hagane Gear – The HAGANE Gear is cold-forged, with no additional machining. Delivers durability, strength, lightness, and power to the heart of the reel.
Power Roller – The special grooved design of the Shimano Power Roller greatly reduces twisting and is a great use case.
X Aero Wrap II is a winding system that uses a preset worm gear for optimal line lay and speed. This provides excellent uniform placement to reduce energy loss during casting. X Aero Wrap II is considered one of the best systems in the world.
Waterproof Drag – By using special protective pads, the brake is protected from water ingress for a more durable action.
Main Characteristics
The rigid Hagane Body has an offset center of gravity (G Free Body), which relieves hand fatigue during long fishing trips.
Cold forged 4.8: 1 gear ratio, X-Ship, endless screw and 7 bearings (6 of which are S A-RC) provide a smooth ride.
To protect the mechanism from water, including seawater, as well as dirt, the CoreProtect system is used.
The reels are equipped with perforated metal spools AR-C Spool, which, due to the beveled side, allow you to make longer casts.
The front friction brake, protected from water by a special pad, can withstand 11 kg.
Powerful aluminum handle with large ball knob.
Conclusion
Spheros – Shimano’s saltwater resistant stationary reel series includes a wide range of convenient bank spinning reels up to 20,000 large models with 18kg braking force that can be used to tackle particularly strong predators such as fishing for record halibut or powerful predators in tropical regions. The Paladin gear system creates rollers that are resistant to saltwater but not highly resistant to rolling. The G Free Body concept also suppresses damaging gear vibrations, so it runs very smoothly. Thanks to the large line roller, you can easily fish with thicker lines. It doesn’t matter if mono or braided line.
The materials and technology used in the Shimano Spheros SW are designed for durability and comfort. Features especially appreciated by Shimano anglers. The body and gearbox are from the Hagane concept. A quality feature you can rely on. Sealed brakes ensure trouble-free operation even under heavy loads. With this all-aluminum marine stationary reel, you get a fully equipped saltwater fishing reel with cutting-edge technology and amazing value for money.
Tags: #shimano spheros / #shimano spheros sw / #shimano spheros 5000 / #shimano spheros 4000 / #shimano spheros 6000
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.com 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.com 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!
I recently purchased the Shimano Spheros SW for a fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico and it performed exceptionally well. The reel is smooth, powerful, and well-constructed. It also held up well to the harsh saltwater environment. Overall, I highly recommend this reel for any serious saltwater angler.
I was intrigued by the Shimano Spheros SW reel due to its well-sealed body and durable internals, especially for its price point. I can see this being a great option for beach fishing where sand and saltwater can easily damage your gear.
This reel looks like it can handle some serious saltwater fishing. I appreciate the fact that it’s sealed, which should help protect it from the elements. I also like that it has a good drag system, which is crucial when fighting big fish.
After doing a bit more research, I came across the Spheros SW XG, which is marketed as having a higher gear ratio and a different color scheme. While the faster gear ratio would be great for my fishing needs, I’m hesitant to believe Shimano’s advertising claims, as they have been known to incorrectly advertise reel features. I’m also concerned that the newer model might have cheaper internals, taking advantage of the strong reputation of the original Spheros SW.
The Shimano Spheres SW reel is the ultimate choice for anglers who want reliable power without sacrificing comfort. Its lightweight construction ensures ease of use during those long days out on the water, while its smooth drag system allows you to reel in more catches with less effort. A must-have piece of equipment!
When it comes to Shimano’s Spheros reel series, there’s no denying that the FA model was an excellent piece of machinery. However, after six years of reliable service, the Spheros FA was finally phased out and replaced by the newer Spheros FB in 2008. One of the key changes that came with the FB series was the renaming of the two biggest models from 12000FA and 14000FA to 14000FB and 18000FB, respectively. Although the physical sizes of the reels remained the same, the new designations gave them a sense of “bigness” that made them more attractive to anglers.
Unfortunately, this change in nomenclature also led to some confusion and unfounded speculation about the differences between the FA and FB models. Some people claimed that the FB had updated oscillation or spool, among other changes. However, in reality, the FB did away with the anti-reverse switch, had a simplified bail arm and line roller build, and the biggest two FB reels had an optional bail-less kit that wasn’t available for the FA. All in all, the Spheros FB was a worthy successor to the FA, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality saltwater reel.
If you’re looking for a great reel that offers reliable performance and power, then the Shimano Spheres SW is the one for you. Its smooth drag system will help you make the most of your fishing time and its lightweight design ensures comfortable to use all day long. Definitely worth checking out!
I completely agree that the Shimano Spheros SW spinning reel is an excellent saltwater fishing reel. In fact, I would go as far as to say that it should be considered Shimano’s meat and potatoes reel, rather than the Saragosa. This reel has certainly impressed me with its performance in various challenging scenarios, and I can hardly find anything to complain about it.
From its solid construction to its smooth drag, the Spheros SW has everything you need for a successful day out on the water. Overall, I would highly recommend this reel to any angler looking for a top-tier saltwater spinning reel.
The Shimano Spheres SW reel is an ideal choice for anglers looking for a lightweight, yet powerful fishing tool. Its smooth drag system ensures that you can easily bring in your catches and its lightweight construction makes it perfect for long days out on the water. Highly recommended!
As an avid angler, I couldn’t agree more with the importance of a smooth drag in a spinning reel. Whether I’m finesse fishing for bass in clear water or throwing huge poppers for offshore Giant Trevally, the drag system is critical to my success. Without a smooth drag, I risk losing the fish of a lifetime or breaking my line when I need it most.
In addition to the drag system, a well-designed spool is also crucial for an efficient cast. The spool design affects how the line flows off the reel during a cast, and a good spool will keep the line coming off in a tight spiral for less drag. This makes for a more efficient cast and allows me to cover more water and increase my chances of landing a fish.
Of course, the overall feel of the reel is also important. When I’m using a spinning reel, I’m often fishing in a way that requires a lot of attention to detail. The smoother and more comfortable the reel feels, the more I can focus on the fishing and less on the mechanics of the reel itself. A good retrieve system is critical, too, making the entire fishing experience more enjoyable and effortless.
Finally, the weight and rigidity of the reel are important factors to consider. A lightweight reel allows me to cast all day without fatigue, while still retaining the strength and durability to withstand whatever nature throws my way. A reel that is too heavy will make the fishing experience less enjoyable and could even lead to fatigue or injury.
In conclusion, choosing the right spinning reel is subjective and depends on your individual needs and fishing style. However, a smooth drag, well-designed spool, comfortable feel, and lightweight, yet strong construction are all key features to consider when selecting the perfect spinning reel for your next fishing adventure.
I’ve been using Shimano reels for years and have always been happy with their quality and performance. It’s good to see that the Spheros SW lives up to Shimano’s reputation. I’ll definitely be considering this reel for my next saltwater fishing trip.
As an angler who recently got my hands on the Shimano Spheros SW spinning reel, I have to say that I was quite impressed with its appearance right out of the box. While it may not have the same flashy appearance as some of the more high-end Shimano reels, the Spheros SW still boasts a sleek and stylish design. The black body contrasts nicely with the silver spool and handle, making it a visually appealing addition to any angler’s gear collection.
As I picked up the reel, I immediately noticed a weighty feel that gave it a solid, durable quality without being overly heavy. The drag system also stood out to me, with a smooth, soft click that was pleasing to the ear, and an easy-to-use drag knob adjustment that allowed me to make quick and precise changes on the fly. The large, ball-style handle was also a welcome feature, providing an extra level of comfort and grip that made using the reel a breeze.
Once I got the Shimano Spheros SW out on the water, I was even more impressed with its performance. The reel’s smooth drag system allowed me to make precise adjustments when I needed to, and I was able to land some nice-sized fish with ease. The handle turned smoothly and effortlessly, making it a joy to retrieve my line, even when fighting strong currents or heavy fish.
One thing I appreciated about the Spheros SW is its versatility. I was able to use it for a variety of fishing techniques, from finesse fishing for bass to throwing heavier lures for offshore species. The reel’s construction felt solid and durable, and I had no doubts about its ability to withstand whatever I threw its way.
Another aspect of the Shimano Spheros SW that I appreciated was its easy maintenance. After a long day of fishing, I was able to quickly and easily clean and lubricate the reel, ensuring that it would be ready for my next fishing trip.
Overall, I highly recommend the Shimano Spheros SW spinning reel to any angler in the market for a high-performing, reliable reel that can handle a variety of fishing situations. Its solid construction, smooth drag system, and comfortable design make it a joy to use, and its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any angler’s gear collection.
Thanks for this review of the Shimano Spheros SW. I’ve been looking for a new reel for my saltwater fishing and this seems like a great option. Your detailed breakdown of the features and benefits was very helpful.
I recently had the pleasure of putting the Shimano Spheros SW spinning reel to the test while fishing for flathead catfish. Even though flatheads are not saltwater species, they can put up quite a fight and can test even the best fishing gear. I was impressed with the way this reel performed.
Right off the bat, the smoothness of the drag stood out to me. The reel had no jerky or sticky feeling during the powerful runs that these fish made, even after it had been submerged underwater a few times. In addition to the smooth drag, it was also incredibly strong, which allowed me to put serious pressure on the fish and not worry about the drag slipping. The reel’s rigidity was also noticeable, with no noticeable flex when loaded up on the fish across the current. During the fights, the rod was loaded up nearly to the cork, but the reel wasn’t flexing even the slightest bit.
I caught a few flatheads over 30 pounds and one over 40 with the Spheros in just a few trips, and I never felt like I was undergunned. The spool design on this reel is fantastic as well. Even with the heavy 50-pound braided main line, the reel allowed for effortless long casts, with the line coming off the spool nearly silently. The free-flow propulsion spool design also reduces line slap on the rod.
I also tested the Spheros on cobia and was impressed once again. The reel was able to handle these fish without even a slight hiccup. The drag was smooth and strong, the spool design allowed for easy, accurate casts, and the rigid frame showed no signs of weakness during the long, powerful fights these fish put up.
The Shimano Spheros SW exceeded my expectations tenfold. It was tested against some big fish that love to test tackle, but it brushed it all off and handled business like it was nothing. I highly recommend this reel to anyone looking for a high-performing, durable spinning reel.
I couldn’t agree more with the review of the Shimano Spheros SW spinning reel. The drag system on this reel is really impressive. The range is smooth, and it can handle up to 22 pounds of pressure, which is no small feat. Additionally, the reel is incredibly durable. Even though the body is made of aluminum rather than the usual Hagane material found in Shimano spinning reels, the Spheros is still one tough cookie. I tested it out myself, and there was no flex, even under heavy drag when I was lifting fish.
The spool design is also a standout feature. The free-flow propulsion spool is a game changer when it comes to casting. The angled top of the spool allows for effortless casting, making it a breeze to throw a 1-ounce lure 60 yards or more. Even a 2.5-ounce jig can be thrown nearly 100 yards into the wind with ease.
Another small feature that makes a big difference is the handle. The Spheros has a ball-style grip on the 5000 sizes and up, which is a great comfort and strength booster when targeting big fish. And let’s not forget about the price. The Spheros is a high-performing reel, but it doesn’t break the bank. At less than $200 for sizes 10000 and below, it’s a fantastic value. Overall, the Shimano Spheros SW is an outstanding reel that can handle big fish and strong currents without breaking a sweat.
I have to say, after putting this reel through its paces, it’s easily one of the best spinning reels out there. I’ve tested it in all sorts of situations and it just kept on performing flawlessly. Whether I was battling trophy catfish in strong rapids or trying to wrangle big cobia in deep water, the Shimano Spheros SW reel just kept ticking like new.
One of the things that really impresses me about this reel is just how many features it has, and how few downsides. It really is a high-performance reel that’s available at a price point that’s accessible to the average angler. If you’re looking for a spinning reel that you can rely on to get the job done, whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, the Spheros SW reel is definitely worth considering. It’s a workhorse of a reel that can handle anything you throw at it.