Shimano Goes Smaller for Finesse with New Flagship MGL Exsence Spinning Reel

Introduction: Shimano’s flagship MagnumLite spinning reel gets a refresh and a new, smaller size. The latest addition to the Exsence lineup is the 2500-size Exsence XG B, a reel engineered for enthusiast finesse anglers. Featuring a lighter magnesium frame, an asymmetrical CI4+ MGL Rotor, and a souped-up drag system, this new iteration brings JDM performance and refinement to the U.S. finesse scene.

Once reserved for the JDM market the Exsence spinning reels have become the flagship MGL spinning reels in the U.S.

For the Love of Finesse: Originally developed in Japan to target hard-fighting seabass in saltwater environments, the Exsence series has always been about light weight, responsiveness, and stealth. With its blacked-out magnesium body and lightning-quick startup, the Exsence was built to give anglers the ability to detect subtle bites and instantly engage fish with the turn of a handle.

The new Exsence 2500XGB is a smaller lighter reel optimized for freshwater finesse applications

Over the past few seasons, Shimano has made a clear distinction between its two spinning reel families: the powerful, rigid CoreSolid line, headlined by the Stella; and the finesse-focused MagnumLite (MGL) line, which prioritizes precision and control. The Exsence is the crown jewel of the MGL series, designed for anglers who rely on light line, subtle presentations, and pinpoint accuracy.

MGL spinning reels are designed for a lighter startup for start and stop finesse applications where control and speed are benefits

While the larger 3000 and 4000-size Exsence reels remain popular in Japan for tackling seabass, rockfish, trevally, and even small amberjacks, U.S. anglers have increasingly imported the 3000-size models for finesse bass fishing - drawn by both the reel’s performance and its stealthy JDM aesthetic.

Finesse fishing has exploded in the U.S., fueled by the rise of live sonar and the need for sensitive, highly responsive gear. The new 2500-size Exsence B is designed to answer that call, offering anglers a more compact option specifically suited for freshwater species like bass and trout.

One of the key characteristics of the MGL spool design are the asymmetrical rotor design

Precision in a Compact Form: The new Exsence B is loaded with Shimano’s most advanced reel tech, including features designed to help anglers make longer, more accurate casts and maintain better control during precise presentations. This 2500-size version comes equipped with XG gearing and a brisk 6.4:1 ratio, giving it speed to match its finesse.

CoreSolid reels like the Stella are all about solid feel and max power. Notice the symmetrical rotor design

At the core of the Exsence B is the latest-generation MGL Rotor, crafted from lightweight CI4+ carbon-infused material. Unlike the symmetrical CoreSolid rotors, the asymmetrical MGL design reduces rotational inertia, making startup instant and handle feel agile - a big advantage for baits that require finesse-driven movements and quick hooksets.
Shimano’s Infinity technologies further elevate the reel’s performance.

InfinityLoop improves line lay and oscillation, designed to facilitate longer and smoother casts.

InfinityDrive reduces friction for effortless winding, even under load.

InfinityXross strengthens gear durability under pressure.

The new Exsence features the DuraCross drag washers which are more powerful and more durable and the entire system is quicker to adjust on the fly with the "Rapid Fire" drag which changes drag force quicker with every turn of the knob. A high setting can be used for a hookset and dialing back pressure during the fight is possible with a quick adjustment on the fly

The Exsence B also features Shimano’s Rapid Fire Drag for quick and precise adjustments mid-fight, and DuraCross drag washers for smooth performance and increased longevity. The removable Anti-Twist Fin rounds out the package, helping maintain consistent line tension and minimizing slack.

The reel features a very clean and elegant design. The body is magnesium and the Magnumlite rotor is made of composite CI4+ carbon

“When we talk about finesse, we’re talking about control - and that’s where this Exsence B dominates,” says Kade Gewanter, Freshwater Product Marketing Manager at Shimano North America Fishing. “The new size offering within the redesigned Exsence series - the Exsence 2500XGB - expands access to Shimano’s premium technologies for finesse bass fishing, allowing more anglers to fine-tune their gear for specific techniques using a premium reel equipped with Shimano’s MGL Rotor. Whether shaking a dropshot, or strolling a minnow, the Exsence B delivers the performance edge.”

In terms of availability the Exsence MGL reels will start shipping late summer and retail for $599 each. The larger 4000 size reels will carry a 10 dollar premium over the other two reels.

Our Quick Take: I bought my first Exsence spinning reel during a trip to the tackle shops in Shibuya, Tokyo - purely based on how sleek and featherlight it felt in hand. That original reel, with its matte black finish, instantly stood out in my arsenal. It always felt special, and something that I enjoyed pairing with lightweight finesse rods. Since then, I’ve come to appreciate how different the Exsence feels compared to Shimano’s flagship Stella.

There is a new flagship MGL reel, and this smaller and lighter Exsence is designed for enthusiasts and power-users looking for every edge in finesse fishing

As the CoreSolid and MGL reel families continue to evolve and diverge, I’ve found myself leaning more toward the MGL side - simply because it better suits how I use spinning gear: for finesse fishing. In Shimano’s MGL lineup, the Vanford A probably represents the sweet spot for most anglers when it comes to performance and value, much like the Stradic FM does in the CoreSolid series. But the Exsence B isn’t about value - it's about pushing performance to the limit. This new 2500-size Exsence B looks and feels every bit the halo reel it’s designed to be. With its fast gear ratio, upgraded drag, and signature blackout styling, it’s a premium offering for finesse anglers who demand nothing but the best. It certainly won’t be the cheapest option on the shelf - but for those chasing the edge in finesse fishing, it might just be the ideal reel.