ICAST 2015 Coverage - Shimano Casitas

ICAST 2015 Coverage

Shimano Stradic FK is a Winner and the Casitas Baitcaster is Unveiled

Date:	7/15/15
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Shimano
Reviewer:	Zander

Introduction: Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated spinning reel of the show, the new Shimano Stradic FK, took home the "Best of Show - Freshwater Reel," winning over buyers and media with the brand new sleek redesign. Though the Stradic FK definitely took the spotlight another new reel, the low profile Casitas baitcaster, is sure to be of interest to mainstream bass anglers.

John Mazurkiewicz kicks things off at the ICAST 2015 Shimano press event

Stradic FK: We have been lucky enough to be able to play around with the Stradic FK for two weeks leading up to the show and have found this new reel to be surprisingly refined. In our preview we even alluded to the idea that this might be the best Stradic yet... and the more we fish it the more that statement seems to ring true. The new Stradic places an emphasis on durability and refinement with Hagane metal body and gear design. This reel may not be Stella smooth but it performs incredibly well for a fraction of the price.

The Shimano Stradic FK took home Best of Show in the Freshwater Reel Category hours ago at ICAST 2015

The Stradic FK looks like it is going to be one of Shimano's most popular spinning reels retailing from $199-$229 dollars and will be available in sizes ranging from 1000 to 5000, covering everything from light line finesse fishing to offshore applications.

Dave Mercer and Mark Zona talk about the new Stradic FK

Under the radar: While most attendees were all over the Stradic there was another new reel that also caught our attention. The new Casitas low profile baitcasting reel looks like the Aldebaran's little brother. This compact reel comes in a 150 size and comes in 6.3:1 and 7.2:1 retrieve ratios.

While the Stradic FK was definitely the top story at Shimano another reel deserved attention

The Casitas features proven technologies such as SVS Infinity casting control for on the fly spool control adjustments and a S3D stable spool design for balance and vibration free long distance casting.

The Shimano Casitas features Shimano's new aggressive profile and makes use of composite construction to keep both cost and weight down

The Casitas reel comes with 4+1 bearings and weighs in at 6.7oz., which is actually lighter than the recently introduced Citica I, which weighs in at 7.4oz.. How does the Casitas weigh so much less? The reason is that it does not feature the Hagane metal body construction, and instead makes use of a composite construction. While it may not be as refined as the new Citica I, it does offer the benefit of superior corrosion resistance.

The Shimano Casitas could be the dark horse choice for mainstream anglers

The Casitas is designed to address the mainstream segment head on and will retail for a very aggressive $119 dollars each. For those anglers that are looking for a compact and ergonomic baitcaster that will not break the bank the new Casitas offers a whole lot of what we like in Shimano's higher-end baitcasters at a really good price!