The DC Universe is about to get a lot bigger: The 2018 Curado 150DC will be the most affordable DC reel that Shimano has ever introduced in the U.S. and makes use of an updated sealed DC system that has been simplified for anglers, making it easier to effectively utilize the technology for the very first time.

To test Mode 2 we spooled up with a variety of new PowerPro Super Slick V2 lines, also a new offering this ICAST

Unlike the Calais 4x8 that had a wide range of settings the new Curado will just have four modes, what the company is calling I-DC4 braking technology. Mode 1 is for maximum distance (least amount of magnetic braking), Mode 2 is designed specifically for managing braided line, mode 3 is for fluorocarbon or stiffer lines, and Mode 4 offers maximum control (largest amount of magnetic braking) for skipping applications. The microprocessor has also been enhanced within the new reel to make adjustments while anglers are fishing to adjust to the weight of the lure and current wind conditions.

While the casting is the star of the reel the Curado 150 DC feels every bit as smooth as the Curado K on retrieves thanks to the MicroModule gearing

Cal and I had the opportunity to fish four of these Curado 150 DC reels in advance of the ICAST debut with Dan Thorburn (Bantam1), including the very first left handed mass production reels. As you can probably imagine Cal has a lot of hours logged with various JDM Shimano DC reels and within just a few casts he was impressed not only with the ease of use offered by the new system but the refinement of the new DC module. Shimano fans can rest assured that the Curado’s new system delivers the same type of range and control that you expect from the DC system, and all with the signature high pitched whine that we have grown to expect and love.

The reel features a lighter color but plenty of anodized green and gold highlights exist to ensure you remember this is a Curado

The Curado 150 DC name may be a bit misleading as the reel isn’t actually smaller or lighter than the Curado K. The 150 versus 200 designation is because the DC reel has a smaller line capacity (20-25 yards less depending on the line) than the Curado K. This is due to the shallower spool which is required to accommodate the DC unit’s larger diameter magnet array. The reason that the reel is heavier is also because magnets weigh more than centrifugal brake weights. The Curado K weighs 7.6oz. while the Curado DC weighs 7.8oz. (7.9oz. for the high speed XG version).

Dan lands a fish with the Curado caught on an upcoming Jackall topwater prop bait called the ChopCut

The difference in weight is minor but what is more noticeable is the larger sideplate profile which is required for the front mounted DC adjustment dial. The dial not only controls the system but serves as the locking mechanism for the non-handle sideplate, it is a pretty elegant design. Though the execution gives the Curado DC a more squared off look the reel still looks quite compact, and the position of the dial actually makes it easier to make on the fly adjustments without having to rotate the rod and reel over.

Cal attempts casting without thumbing the spool

When fishing with Dan he challenged us to cast into the wind with Mode 4 activated, all without the use of our thumbs to feather the spool. No backlashes! The reel can manage the cast all the way to the point the reel hits the water without any intervention from the angler, even in a 12-15mph wind. Like previous DC systems during each cast the microprocessor is constantly making adjustments every 1/1000 of a second, applying varying braking pressure to reduce, and in the case of mode 4, to eliminate backlashes while attempting to adjust for your distinct casting motion and maximize distance.

The Curado 150 DC handles braided line beautifully