HOME | TACKLETOUR FORUMS  | EDITOR'S CHOICE | REVIEW ARCHIVE | ABOUT US | 

Reels | Rods | Lures | SwimbaitsBFS Lines | Term. Tackle | Tools | Storage | Apparel | Enthusiast | Watercraft | Interviews | Events | Autopsy


 


 

 


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.
 

Looking for the new Shimano Swimbait Lures, Rods and Reels?

Try TackleWarehouse


 

   

Google
  Web
  TackleTour

 

 

 
 





 

 



Copyright 2000-2024 TackleTour LLC All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy information