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Offshore and deep-sea angling has been revolutionized by a single piece of technology: the electric reel. For anglers plumbing the abyssal depths for swordfish, battling monster tuna, or simply seeking an edge in efficiency, electric reels have become indispensable tools. At the forefront of this technological wave is Shimano, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the fishing world. Shimano’s electric reel lineup, a testament to their engineering prowess, offers a comprehensive range of options catering to various techniques, target species, and budgets.
This in-depth guide for ReelSchematic.com will explore the entirety of Shimano’s electric reel series, from the powerhouse Beastmaster to the versatile Forcemaster and the accessible Plays. We will delve into the cutting-edge technology that drives these reels, break down the specifications of each model, and help you determine which Shimano electric reel is the perfect companion for your next offshore adventure.
The Genesis of Power: A Nod to Dendou-Maru
Before the current trifecta of electric reel series, there was the Dendou-Maru. This was Shimano’s pioneering line of electric reels, with early models like the TITANOS Dendou-Maru ED 6000 appearing in the late 1980s. These reels laid the groundwork for what was to come, introducing features like digital depth counters and programmable functions that were revolutionary at the time. The Dendou-Maru series established Shimano’s commitment to integrating advanced electronics with robust reel design, a philosophy that continues to this day.
Core Shimano Electric Reel Technologies
Understanding Shimano’s electric reels begins with understanding the innovative technologies they are built upon. These features are the heart and soul of their performance, providing the power, durability, and user-friendly experience that anglers have come to expect.
- GigaMax Motor: Found in the top-tier Beastmaster series, the GigaMax is a brushless DC motor that delivers exceptional torque, high-speed winding, and incredible durability. Its brushless design means fewer wearing parts, leading to a longer lifespan and more efficient power delivery.
- Muteki Motor: The Muteki motor, a powerful brushed DC motor, is the workhorse found in many Forcemaster and Plays models. It provides a fantastic blend of power and speed, capable of handling a wide range of deep-water applications.
- HAGANE Body: The HAGANE Body is a testament to Shimano’s commitment to rigidity and durability. By using high-rigidity metals like aluminum, the HAGANE Body eliminates reel flex under heavy loads, ensuring that all the angler’s and motor’s power is translated directly into winding force.
- Heat Free System II: Battling large fish from the depths generates significant heat in the drag system and motor. The Heat Free System II incorporates vents in the reel’s side plate, allowing heat to dissipate and maintaining optimal performance during long, grueling fights.
- Thermo Adjust Drag: This smart feature works in conjunction with the Heat Free System. If the drag starts to slip excessively, which can cause heat buildup, the Thermo Adjust Drag will automatically reduce the motor speed to prevent overheating and protect the drag system.
- Cross Carbon Drag: This drag system utilizes carbon washers to provide smooth, powerful, and consistent drag pressure. It’s capable of handling the long, powerful runs of pelagic giants and the stubborn tug-of-war with bottom dwellers.
- e-Exciting Drag Sound: Instead of a traditional mechanical clicker, Shimano has implemented an electronic drag sound. This provides clear, audible feedback when a fish is taking line, with the sound intensity often corresponding to the speed of the run.
- Fine Dot LCD: Clarity of information is crucial when fishing at depth. Shimano’s Fine Dot LCD screens are bright, clear, and easy to read even in direct sunlight, displaying critical data like depth, line out, and program modes.
- CI4+: This is a Shimano-exclusive carbon-infused material that is lighter and more rigid than conventional materials. It’s often used in components like handle knobs to reduce weight without sacrificing strength.
- S A-RB (Shielded Anti-Rust Bearings): These bearings are put through a special process to make them highly corrosion-resistant. They also feature shields on both sides to reduce the possibility of salt, sand, or dirt from impeding their rotation.
The Lineup: A Series-by-Series Breakdown
Shimano has structured its electric reel offerings into three distinct series, each with its own set of models and intended applications.
1. Beastmaster Series: The Apex Predator
The Beastmaster series represents the pinnacle of Shimano’s electric reel technology. These reels are built with one primary purpose: to dominate the largest and most powerful inhabitants of the deep. Featuring the formidable GigaMax motor and the most robust construction, the Beastmaster is the choice for serious deep-droppers, swordfish specialists, and those targeting grander-class tuna.
A key distinction within this series is the “MD” (Monster Drive) designation, which signifies an even higher level of power and durability.
Notable Beastmaster Models:
| Model | Max Drag (kg/lbs) | Gear Ratio | Weight (g/oz) | Braid Capacity (PE/m) | Key Features | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beastmaster MD 12000 | 43 / 94 | 2.4:1 | 2300 / 81.1 | PE8-1200, PE10-900 | NEW GIGA-MAX MOTOR, 43kg Drag, Enhanced Heat Dissipation | Extreme Deep Dropping, Giant Tuna, Swordfish |
| Beastmaster 9000B | 25 / 55 | 3.1:1 | 1485 / 52.4 | PE6-1100, PE8-900 | GigaMax Motor, HAGANE Body, Thermo Adjust Drag | Deep Dropping, Kite Fishing for large pelagics, Daytime Swordfish |
| Beastmaster MD 6000 | 43 / 94 | 2.4:1 | 2070 / 73 | PE6-830, PE8-600 | NEW GIGA-MAX MOTOR, Reinforced Gear System | Heavy Deep Dropping for Grouper and Tilefish, Tuna |
| Beastmaster 3000EJ | 20 / 44 | 3.9:1 | 810 / 28.6 | PE5-350, PE6-300 | GigaMax Motor, EJ Mode (Electric Jigging) | Electric Jigging for Tuna, Amberjack, and other powerful pelagics |
| Beastmaster 2000EJ | 15 / 33 | 5.1:1 | 690 / 24.3 | PE3-500, PE4-400 | GigaMax Motor, EJ Mode, One-Pitch Distance Display | Lighter Electric Jigging applications |
2. Forcemaster Series: The Versatile Workhorse
The Forcemaster series is arguably the most versatile of Shimano’s electric reel offerings. These reels strike a perfect balance between power, speed, and affordability. Equipped with the powerful Muteki motor, Forcemaster reels are capable of tackling a wide array of offshore and deep-sea challenges. From deep-dropping for tilefish and grouper to kite fishing for sailfish, there is a Forcemaster model designed for the task.
The Forcemaster lineup includes a variety of sizes, from the compact 600 series to the formidable 9000. The smaller models, such as the 600, often come in different handle configurations (e.g., DH for double handle) and left-hand retrieve options (model number ending in 1).
Notable Forcemaster Models:
| Model | Max Drag (kg/lbs) | Gear Ratio | Weight (g/oz) | Braid Capacity (PE/m) | Key Features | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forcemaster 9000A | 25 / 55 | 3.1:1 | 1515 / 53.4 | PE6-1260, PE8-1030 | Muteki Motor, HAGANE Body, Heat Free System II | Deep Dropping, Kite Fishing for Sailfish and Tuna |
| Forcemaster 6000 | 30 / 66 | 3.1:1 | 1390 / 49 | PE8-600, PE10-500 | Muteki Motor, HAGANE Body, Enhanced Drag | Heavy bottom fishing, targeting large Grouper and Snapper |
| Forcemaster 3000 | 20 / 44 | 3.9:1 | 825 / 29.1 | PE5-400, PE6-350 | Muteki Motor, Cross Carbon Drag | General purpose deep dropping and bottom fishing |
| Forcemaster 600/601/DH | 10 / 22 | 6.5:1 | 490 / 17.3 | PE2-300, PE3-200 | Muteki Motor+, Fall Lever, Speed Clutch | Light deep dropping, Tenya, Tai Rubber, Squid |
| Forcemaster 200/201/DH | 6 / 13.2 | 8.2:1 | 395 / 13.9 | PE0.8-400, PE1-330 | MUTEKI MOTOR+, TouchDrive, Speed Clutch | Ultra-light electric applications, shallow water jigging |
3. Plays Series: The Gateway to Power
The Plays series is designed to make the world of electric reel fishing more accessible to a broader range of anglers. While being the most budget-friendly of the three series, the Plays reels do not skimp on performance. They feature robust motors, often the Muteki, and a host of Shimano’s core technologies. The Plays series is an excellent choice for anglers looking to get into deep-water fishing for the first time or for those who need a reliable electric reel for less demanding applications.
Recent updates to the Plays series, such as the introduction of new 3000 and 4000 models in 2024, have further enhanced their capabilities with features like the HAGANE Body.
Notable Plays Models:
| Model | Max Drag (kg/lbs) | Gear Ratio | Weight (g/oz) | Braid Capacity (PE/m) | Key Features | Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plays 4000 (2024) | 15 / 33 | 3.2:1 | 1245 / 43.9 | PE6-500, PE8-300 | HAGANE Body, Powerful Motor | Deep-water bottom fishing for species like Alfonsino and Rockfish |
| Plays 3000 (2024) | 15 / 33 | 3.9:1 | 685 / 24.2 | PE5-350, PE6-300 | Muteki Motor, HAGANE Body, Fire Mach System | Mid-depth bottom fishing for Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper |
| Plays 800/1000 | 10 / 22 | 5.1:1 | 615 / 21.7 | PE3-400, PE4-300 (1000) | Muteki Motor, Super Free Spool | Light to medium deep dropping and bottom fishing |
| Plays 600 | 5 / 11 | 5.5:1 | 470 / 16.6 | PE2-300, PE3-200 | Heat Free System, Super Slow Retrieve | Light game electric fishing, targeting smaller deep-water species |
Choosing Your Weapon: Matching the Reel to the Mission
With such a diverse lineup, selecting the right Shimano electric reel can seem daunting. Here’s a quick guide to help you narrow down your choices based on your target species and fishing style:
- For the Deep-Drop Specialist (Tilefish, Grouper, Snapper): Your primary concerns are power and line capacity. The Beastmaster series, particularly the 9000B or MD 6000, is the top choice for its immense winding power and durability. The Forcemaster 9000A and 6000 are also excellent and highly capable options.
- For the Swordfish Hunter: Daytime swordfishing requires significant line capacity and the power to lift these gladiators from the depths. The Beastmaster MD 12000 or 9000B are the go-to reels for this demanding application.
- For the Kite Fishing Enthusiast (Sailfish, Tuna): Kite fishing requires a reel with a fast retrieval speed to quickly bring in the kite and baits. The Forcemaster 9000A is a popular and effective choice due to its balance of speed and power. The Beastmaster 9000B also excels in this role.
- For the Electric Jigging Pioneer (Tuna, Amberjack): The specialized Beastmaster EJ models (3000EJ, 2000EJ) are purpose-built for this technique, offering programmable jigging modes and the power to handle aggressive strikes and fights.
- For the Light-Tackle and Inshore Angler: If you’re exploring the benefits of electric reels for lighter applications like deep-water fluke, sea bass, or squid, the Forcemaster 600 or Plays 600/800 offer a compact and lightweight solution with ample power.
The Final Word
Shimano’s electric reel series offers a masterclass in engineering, providing anglers with the power, technology, and reliability to conquer the challenges of deep-water and big-game fishing. Whether you are a seasoned professional demanding the ultimate in performance with a Beastmaster, a versatile angler in need of a Forcemaster’s all-around capabilities, or an enthusiast taking your first step into power-assisted fishing with a Plays model, Shimano has a reel that will elevate your experience on the water. By understanding the technology and carefully considering your fishing needs, you can confidently select a Shimano electric reel that will serve as a trusted partner in your pursuit of the fish of a lifetime.
