Swimbaits
and Rods Preview |

Shimano Ups Their Swimbait Game with Gravitator Glides and
Outlier Rods

Date: |
1/13/25 |
Tackle type: |
Swimbaits and
Rods |
Manufacturer: |
Shimano |
Reviewer: |
Zander |
Introduction: Shimano expands on their Armajoint swimbaits with a new
glidebait that incorporates the same Boost technology, now enhanced with
features that allow anglers to adjust the gliding action on the fly. To
complement these baits, Shimano introduces the Outlier Rod Series - a line of
high-performance rods designed for casting full-sized swimbaits. These rods
offer versatile options, capable of handling baits ranging from as light as 1/2
ounce to a whopping 14 ounces.

The Gravitator 220SF is Shimano's
new glidebait

The Gravitator from above. Each
bait weighs 3.3 ounces and keas8res 8 2/3 inches
Glide Boost: Shimano has ventured into swimbaits before, but the
Gravitator 220SS takes the concept of a true glide bait to the next level - with
a twist. This innovative glide bait leverages advanced injected bait technology,
incorporating design enhancements that deliver exceptional on-water performance
and versatility.

The key feature of this bait is
the ARMABOOST design and a action modifying insert
Like the ArmaJoint, the Gravitator is equipped
with ARMABOOST technology, allowing the lure to fold into a more aerodynamic
shape during casting. This reduces air resistance for smoother, longer casts,
giving anglers an edge in covering more water efficiently.

Some patterns like the OB Bone
look like custom garage built baits
One of the standout features of the Gravitator is its Action Modifying Insert.
This removable insert fits into the joint area of the bait, allowing anglers to
adjust the action to suit changing conditions or fish behavior. With the insert
removed, the bait delivers a choppier, tighter action; when inserted, it
restricts joint movement for a broader, more exaggerated gliding presentation.

Others like the Sexy shad feature
additional BOOST features. Depending on the pattern they may also have SCALE and
FLASH BOOST
The Gravitator also offers enhanced visual appeal with six available models.
Three feature FLASH BOOST technology, which amplifies light reflection for
increased visibility, while the others utilize SCALE BOOST to replicate
realistic baitfish hologram scale patterns for a lifelike appearance. Retailing
at $49.99, the Gravitator 220SS will start shipping in just a few weeks.

A close up of the Royal Gizzard
pattern's SCALE BOOST which is a micro hologram scale pattern to better mimic
baitfish
An Outlier: Shimano has long been committed to developing
technique-specific swimbait rods, and the new Outlier Series takes that
dedication to the next level. Designed to handle the widest range of big baits
yet, these rods feature actions finely tuned for swimbait fishing. Built with
Shimano's most advanced blank materials and technologies, the Outlier Series
delivers maximum utility, durability, and sensitivity on the water.
To enhance compressional and torsional rigidity, Shimano engineers utilized two
proven manufacturing processes: Spiral X and Hi-Power X. These technologies
minimize blank twisting and rolling, resulting in improved casting accuracy and
control with heavy baits, while providing the power needed to take on trophy
fish.

Shimano's Outlier Swimbait rods
feature blanks with Spiral X and Hi-Power X and the grips are custom spiral EVA
handles with heat wrapped exteriors
The Outlier series rods are equipped with durable, high-performance components,
including a custom carbon fiber-infused CI4+ reel seat and double-foot Fuji
K-Frame guides with SiC inserts, engineered to handle the demands of casting and
retrieving heavy, long-range baits. For superior grip and comfort, each rod
features custom spiral EVA handles with heat-wrapped exteriors, designed to
reduce angler fatigue and support extended fishing sessions.

The rods feature a carbon fiber
infused CI4+ reel seat
Offered in six distinct actions with powers precisely tuned to accommodate
specific bait weights and lengths, the Outlier series is purpose-built to tackle
the technical challenges of swimbait fishing.
The Outlier rods range from 7’4” to 8’0” in length, with power ratings up to
XXH. The most powerful model boasts an impressive 6-14 oz. lure rating, making
it ideal for the heaviest swimbaits. Longer models feature a 16.5” grip length,
providing enhanced leverage for casting and improved comfort when working baits.

The Outlier rods are available in
six actions with a range of powers all designed for fishing swimbaits
To improve portability, all rods in the series, except the shortest 7’4” model,
are two-piece designs, allowing for easier transport. Priced at $349, the
Outlier rods are set to start shipping later this spring.

The Gravitator is part of
Shimano's new "Swimbait System"
Our Quick Take: It is no coincidence that Shimano is introducing a new
swimbait, swimbait reel, and rod series all in parallel. This is all part of
their goal to offer anglers a complete tackle system. Bob Mahoney, Shimano’s
Freshwater Marketing Manager explained “For anglers chasing the biggest fish in
the area, this tackle system offers unparalleled precision and performance. The
Tranx 300 B, Outlier swimbait rods, and Gravitator 220SS were designed with one
goal in mind: Helping anglers catch the fish of a lifetime.”

At the core of this system are the
new Outlier rods and newly refreshed CoreSolid Tranx 300 B reels
With the redesigned Tranx 300 B featuring a
CoreSolid body paired with the new, more robust Outlier rods, Shimano has
established a strong foundation for catering to swimbait anglers. While the
Gravitator swimbait brings intriguing new possibilities, we are sure that
Shimano is hoping enthusiasts also rig their favorite glides, wakes, and rats to
truly put the Tranx 300 B and Outlier setup through its paces. These represent
the most purpose-built, technical swimbait reels and rods Shimano has ever
produced, and we’re excited to see how they perform when it's time to swing for
the fences.