Shimano Exage Schematics

Shimano Exage Schematics

Shimano Exage Reel: Remembering a Mid-Range Spinning Reel Legend

For many anglers, the Shimano Exage reel series holds a special place as a benchmark mid-range spinning reel. Though largely succeeded by newer models, the Exage reel remains fondly remembered for delivering a fantastic blend of smooth performance, reliable features, and trusted Shimano quality at an accessible price point. It represented a significant step up for anglers seeking enhanced capabilities without venturing into the highest tiers of Shimano spinning reels.

A Benchmark in the Mid-Range

During its production years, the Shimano Exage series expertly filled a crucial gap in the Shimano lineup. It offered anglers moving beyond entry-level spinning reels a tangible upgrade in feel, features, and overall performance. It provided access to Shimano’s renowned engineering and technologies, making a quality spinning reel experience available to a broader range of fishing enthusiasts.

Core Technologies: The Shimano Exage Advantage

The popularity of the Exage reel stemmed from its incorporation of several key Shimano technologies, often associated with the P4 concept (Power, Precision, Performance, Pleasure):

  • Smooth Operation: Exage reels typically featured a bearing count of 4+1 (often shielded stainless steel or AR-B bearings) combined with Shimano’s Dyna-Balance technology. Dyna-Balance counter-balanced the rotor, minimizing wobble during the retrieve for increased smoothness and sensitivity.  
  • Excellent Casting Performance: Equipped with Shimano’s AR-C spool, which featured an angled lip design to reduce line friction, the Exage facilitated longer, smoother casts. This was often paired with the Varispeed or later Varispeed II oscillation system, ensuring even line lay on the spool, further enhancing casting and minimizing line management issues.  
  • Reliability Features: The inclusion of Super Stopper II provided instant anti-reverse engagement for solid hooksets. The body was typically constructed from materials like Shimano’s XT-7 graphite, offering a good combination of strength, reasonable weight, and corrosion resistance.  
  • Dependable Drag: Whether front or rear drag models, the Exage was known for a smooth and reliable drag system capable of handling fish within its designated class.

Popular Exage Reel Variations (FD, FC, RC)

Anglers might recall or still encounter several variations of the Exage:

  • Exage FD / Exage FC: These designations indicated Front Drag models. The FC was often a later iteration, potentially featuring refinements like the M Compact Body design found in some later versions.
  • Exage RC: This denoted Rear Drag models. Some RC versions also included Shimano’s Fighting’ Drag feature, allowing for quick drag adjustments during a fight.  

Performance That Punched Above Its Weight

The Shimano Exage was widely regarded for offering performance that often felt superior to its price tag. Anglers appreciated its smooth retrieve, consistent drag, good line management, and overall solid feel. This made it a versatile fishing reel suitable for a wide array of freshwater techniques, from lure fishing for bass and perch to float fishing tactics.

The Exage Legacy: A Discontinued Favorite

While you might still find some Exage products (like line or specific travel rods) or used reels available through various channels, the main Shimano Exage reel series is now largely considered discontinued in many global markets. Shimano’s lineup constantly evolves, and the Exage’s position has effectively been filled or surpassed by advancements in other mid-range spinning reel series, such as the popular Shimano Nasci or improvements to lines like the Sahara and Sedona. Despite this, the Exage remains a classic, remembered for setting a high standard for value spinning reels.

Who Appreciated the Shimano Exage Reel?

The Exage resonated strongly with a specific group of anglers:

  • Those upgrading from basic, entry-level reels seeking noticeably better smoothness and features.
  • Serious recreational anglers who fished regularly and demanded reliable performance.
  • Value-conscious buyers wanting dependable Shimano quality and key technologies without the expense of top-tier models like Stradic or TwinPower.

Conclusion

The Shimano Exage reel holds a significant place in the history of Shimano spinning reels. It successfully delivered on the promise of the P4 concept, providing countless anglers with a smooth, reliable, and feature-rich mid-range spinning reel experience. While newer models have taken its place in the current lineup, the Exage’s legacy as a high-value, high-performance workhorse ensures it remains a well-respected and fondly remembered fishing reel among anglers worldwide.