Shimano TLD Series Offshore Fishing Reels Review: A Comprehensive Guide
Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are known for their reliability and durability. These reels are designed to handle the toughest saltwater fishing conditions and are a favorite among anglers worldwide.
Is the Shimano TLD series good?
The Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are renowned for durability and reliability. The TLD series comprises several models from the TLD 15 to the TLD 50. Each reel features a sturdy graphite frame and side plates, a stainless steel gear train, and an anti-rust bearing system.
The Shimano TLD series consists of several models that cater to different fishing needs. From the TLD 15 to the TLD 50, each reel is designed to provide anglers with the power and performance needed to catch big game fish with a Shimano.
The TLD series features a sturdy graphite frame and side plates, a stainless steel gear train, and an anti-rust bearing system that ensures smooth and consistent performance.
In this review, we will cover the features and benefits of each model in the Shimano TLD series.
We will also discuss the pros and cons of these reels, as well as provide recommendations on which model is best suited for different fishing situations. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this review will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reel.
Incidentally, there is a wide selection of Shimano inshore fishing reels if you’re not looking to take the boat out for the day.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive review of the Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels.
Design and Features
The Shimano TLD series of offshore fishing reels is designed to provide anglers with a high-quality, reliable fishing reel that can handle the demands of offshore fishing. The TLD series features a lightweight, graphite frame and side plates, which help to reduce weight without sacrificing strength.
The reels also feature a powerful, smooth drag system that can handle the toughest offshore game fish.
The TLD series is available in several different sizes, ranging from the TLD 15 to the TLD 50. Each size is designed to handle different line weights and fishing applications, so anglers can choose the reel that best suits their needs.
The reels also feature a variety of gear ratios, ranging from 4.0:1 to 5.2:1, which allows anglers to retrieve their line at different speeds.
One of the key features of the TLD series is its four stainless steel ball bearings, which provide a smooth, reliable performance. The reels also feature an anti-rust, stainless steel spool that can handle the harsh saltwater environment.
The spool is also designed to hold a large amount of line, so anglers can fish deeper waters without worrying about running out of line.
When you compare the Penn Squall series to the Shimano TLD series, you’ll see that Shimano offers a more lightweight and compact design, which makes it easier to handle on the water. The TLD series also features a more powerful drag system, which allows anglers to target larger game fish with ease.
While the Penn Squall series is a great option for anglers on a budget, the Shimano TLD series is the clear choice for anglers who demand the best performance and reliability from their fishing gear.
Performance and Durability
The Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are known for their exceptional performance and durability. These reels are designed to handle the toughest fishing conditions and are built to last.
One of the key features of the TLD series is the smooth and reliable drag system. The drag system is made up of high-quality materials and is designed to provide consistent and powerful drag performance. This makes it easier to land big fish and ensures that your line doesn’t break under pressure.
In terms of durability, the TLD series reels are built to last. They are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of offshore fishing. The reels are also easy to maintain and can be quickly disassembled for cleaning and maintenance.
When compared to the Penn Squall reels, the Shimano TLD series comes out on top in terms of performance and durability. The TLD series reels offer smoother drag performance and are more durable than the Penn Squall reels. They also have a wider range of drag settings, making them more versatile for different fishing situations.
| Feature | Shimano TLD Series | Penn Squall |
|---|---|---|
| Drag Performance | Smooth and reliable | Inconsistent |
| Durability | High-quality materials, built to last | Less durable |
| Drag Settings | Wider range of settings | Less versatile |
Overall, the Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance and durable reel for offshore fishing.
With their smooth drag performance, wide range of drag settings, and exceptional durability, these reels are sure to provide years of reliable use.
Drag System
The Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are known for their powerful and reliable drag system. The TLD reels feature a 2-speed drag system that allows for easy and quick adjustments during the fight with the fish.
The drag system is made up of a combination of carbon fiber and stainless steel washers, which provide a smooth and consistent drag throughout the entire fight.
When compared to the Penn Squall reels, the Shimano TLD reels have a slightly stronger drag system. The TLD reels have a maximum drag capacity of up to 44 pounds, while the Penn Squall reels have a maximum drag capacity of up to 40 pounds.
While the difference may seem small, it can make a significant difference when fighting larger and stronger fish.
The Shimano TLD reels also feature a clicker system that alerts the angler when a fish is on the line. This feature is useful when trolling or bottom fishing, as it allows the angler to know when a fish has taken the bait without having to constantly monitor the rod.
Overall, the drag system on the Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels is one of their strongest features.
The combination of carbon fiber and stainless steel washers provides a smooth and consistent drag, while the 2-speed system allows for easy and quick adjustments. When compared to the Penn Squall reels, the TLD reels have a slightly stronger drag system, making them a great choice for anglers who target larger and stronger fish.
Gear Ratio and Line Capacity
The Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels come with various gear ratios, ranging from 3.6:1 to 6.2:1. The gear ratio determines the speed at which the spool rotates, and thus how quickly you can retrieve your line.
A higher gear ratio means faster retrieval, while a lower gear ratio provides more power for hauling in bigger fish. The TLD series offers a good balance of speed and power, making them versatile reels suitable for a range of fishing applications.
When it comes to line capacity, the TLD series reels can hold a significant amount of line. For example, the TLD50 can hold up to 700 yards of 80-pound test monofilament line.
This is more than enough line for most offshore fishing scenarios, allowing you to target a wide range of species without having to worry about running out of line. Compared to the Penn Squall series, the TLD series generally has a slightly larger line capacity, making them a great choice for anglers who need to fish deep or target larger fish.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Line Capacity (mono) |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano TLD20 | 4.0:1 | 450/20, 350/25, 250/30 |
| Penn Squall SQL20LW | 6.0:1 | 415/20, 315/30, 235/40 |
| Shimano TLD30IIA | 3.6:1 | 600/30, 450/40, 350/50 |
| Penn Squall SQL30LD | 6.1:1 | 370/30, 300/40, 240/50 |
| Shimano TLD50IIA | 3.5:1 | 700/80, 550/100, 450/120 |
| Penn Squall SQL50LD | 5.1:1 | 420/50, 350/60, 300/80 |
As you can see from the comparison table above, the Shimano TLD series generally has a lower gear ratio than the Penn Squall series. However, this does not necessarily mean that the TLD series is slower.
The TLD series reels are designed to provide plenty of power, even at lower gear ratios, making them ideal for offshore fishing. Additionally, the TLD series generally has a larger line capacity than the Penn Squall series, giving anglers more flexibility when it comes to targeting different species and fishing at different depths.
Pros and Cons
Like any product, the Shimano TLD Series Offshore Fishing Reels has its pros and cons. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages of these reels:
Pros
- Excellent drag system: The TLD Series has an outstanding drag system that provides smooth, consistent performance even under heavy loads. This makes it easy to reel in big fish without putting too much strain on your arms and hands.
- Durable construction: Shimano is known for producing high-quality fishing gear, and the TLD Series is no exception. These reels are built to last and can withstand the rigors of offshore fishing.
- Easy to use: The TLD Series is designed with the angler in mind. The reels are easy to operate, and the controls are intuitive and easy to understand.
- Good value: While the TLD Series is not the cheapest offshore fishing reel on the market, it offers excellent value for money. You get a high-quality reel at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Heavy: The TLD Series is not the lightest fishing reel out there. It can be a bit cumbersome to handle, especially if you are fishing for extended periods.
- Noisy: Some anglers have reported that the TLD Series can be a bit noisy when reeling in fish. This can be a bit distracting, especially if you are fishing in calm waters.
- Not as smooth as Penn Squall: While the TLD Series has a great drag system, it is not quite as smooth as the Penn Squall. If you are looking for the ultimate in smooth performance, you may want to consider the Squall instead.
- Less line capacity than Penn Squall: The TLD Series has a slightly smaller line capacity than the Penn Squall. This may not be an issue for most anglers, but if you are targeting larger fish, you may want to opt for the Squall instead.
Overall, the Shimano TLD Series Offshore Fishing Reels is an excellent choice for anglers who want a high-quality, reliable reel at a reasonable price.
While it may not be perfect, it offers a great balance of performance and value that is hard to beat. If you are in the market for an offshore fishing reel, the TLD Series is definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
After extensive testing and analysis, it’s clear that the Shimano TLD series offshore fishing reels are a top contender in the market. These reels offer exceptional performance and durability, making them a great choice for serious anglers who demand the best.
Compared to the Penn Squall series, the Shimano TLD reels offer a smoother drag system and a higher gear ratio, allowing for faster retrieve speeds. Additionally, the TLD reels are constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand the harsh conditions of offshore fishing.
One area where the Penn Squall reels outperform the TLD series is in price. The Squall reels are typically more affordable, making them a good choice for anglers on a budget. However, if you’re looking for top-of-the-line performance and durability, the Shimano TLD reels are worth the investment.
Overall, the Shimano TLD series is an excellent choice for offshore fishing. Whether you’re targeting big game fish or just looking for a reliable reel for your next fishing trip, the TLD reels won’t disappoint.