
It’s all about
the Journey – The Shimano Stella FI Spinning Reel

Date: |
2/1/17 |
Tackle type: |
Reel |
Manufacturer: |
Shimano |
Reviewer: |
Zander |
Total Score: 8.08 -
ULTIMATE ENTHUSIAST AWARD!
Introduction: The Shimano Stella. Just mentioning the name of this
flagship spinning reel is enough to scare non-enthusiast anglers, and their
wallets. If the idea of spending nearly 800 dollars on a spinning reel seems
like madness then you might want to stop reading right now. The Stella is
designed for anglers that want, no… demand, the very best that the fishing
industry has to offer, and are willing to pay for it. If the price tag still
hasn’t scared you off then join us on the journey to assess this halo reel.
Shimano Stella FI
2000 Spinning Reel
Specifications |
Line
Capacity (lbs / yds) |
3/136, 4/109, 5/82
(mono) |
Gear Ratio |
5.1:1
|
Weight |
6.3 ounces |
Max. Drag |
6.6 lbs max drag |
Number of
Bearings |
13 S-ARB BB + 1 CRRB |
Features |
Enhanced corrosion resistant bearings, alloy frame and carbon sideplates,
new D2 gear design, Infinitely variable centrifugal braking design,
titanium line guide, compact bent carbon handle, EVA knobs |
Origin |
Japan |
MSRP |
$789.99 |

Shimano's flagship spinning reel,
the Stella FI, is as striking as it is expensive
Impressions: :
Let’s start with the obvious, the Stella FI is the most visually stunning Stella
that Shimano has introduced to date. While previous versions certainly pushed
the envelope in terms of features the FI also takes things to another level when
it comes to styling. Spinning reels for the most part possess a very simple and
familiar layout, and yet the Stella FI elevates that profile by craftily mixing
angles with curves, and making it difficult to see where one starts and the
other begins. The effect is almost Antares like, and the reel’s lines are so
fluid that the design channels liquid metal.

The Stella FI features a very thin
profile
The Stella FI is by far the sleekest looking spinning reel in the Shimano
lineup, and while other reels like the new Stradic feature more angular profiles
the angles on the Stella FI seem like the only reason they are allowed to exist
is to complement the reel’s curves. The choice of the blue and gold metallic
colors only adds to the effect, and the best word that I can use to describe the
reel’s styling is just plain “sexy.” But beauty is more than skin deep in this
reel, and as you can expect Shimano has loaded the reel up with all of their
latest features which are designed to improve balance, smooth retrieve, and even
torque.

The familiar thin yet durable bail
But before we get into the nitty-gritty of what the Stella FI offers lets
address the big question, how much does the Stella FI cost? This flagship reel
will set you back between $789 to $819 dollars depending on size, which is
enough to even give even serious anglers pause. Pair that with a spinning rod
that is “worthy” of wielding such a premium reel and your easily over a thousand
dollars. Not for the faint of heart, the Stella FI is designed for enthusiast
anglers, those that are simply willing to shell out the money to own and fish
the best that Shimano has to offer.

Paired with the Jackall Adrena
spinning rod

The Stella FI features a very
forward profile with the gearing moved near the center for better balance
Casting: The
Shimano Stella FI 2000 features a shallow spool and really is designed either
for ultralight fluorocarbon, mono, or braided lines. It casts just fine, but in
this department is not much different than you might expect from other higher
end spinning reels. In fact it is in this area that I feel like the Daiwa Steez
EX has the Stella beat, as the larger diameter spool format doesn’t wind the
line as tight and seems to release the line smoother, resulting in longer more
effortless casts. With light lines the Stella FI feels very natural and I really
enjoyed fishing with 4lb fluorocarbon with this reel, casting even the lightest
shakey head and drop shot rigs in clear and cold water was stress-free.

The Stella FI is a good caster but
nothing exceptional here
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Section: Smooth Operator...