The latest Curado 200 DC is a digitally-controlled, super-smooth, hard-braking, high-geared baitcaster that holds enough line to do some serious fishing.
Shimano's Curado DC reels feature Shimano’s innovative and unique Digital Control braking technology (I-DC4) which utilises a microcomputer to monitor spool speed 1000 times every second and apply the perfect amount of brake to prevent backlash and maximise casting accuracy and distance. Initially released in the 150 size Curado, this technology has now been included in the recently released Curado 200. This opens the door to a greater range of fishing possibilities using the digital control technology. Increased spool capacity allows anglers to fish heavier line classes for added security and the ability to cast bigger, heavier lures – such as the ever-growing popularity in swimbaits – with ease.
Curado DC 200 is available in High Gear (HG) 7.4:1 and Extra High Gear (XG) 8.5:1 variations in right hand configuration, with a High Gear (HG) model available in left hand wind. The 200 DC also features many standard Shimano technological attributes, including Micro Module gearing, Hagane (aluminium) body, cross carbon drag washers, X Ship (pinion support bearing), 6+1 shielded anti-rust bearings and a 10 year warranty. The 200 model’s spool will gobble up 190 yards of 30 pound Power Pro braid, dish out up to 5kg of drag and yet weighs in at just 230g.
Imagine my surprise when it was suddenly connected to a powerful fish that ripped about 50m of line on its first run.
The I-DC4 cast control has 4 settings: Modes 1,2,3 and 4. Setting 1 employs the least amount of braking and is for distance casting, 2 is recommended for use with braid lines, 3 is for stiffer lines such as mono or fluorocarbon and 4 provides maximum braking and useful for casting large baits or into the breeze.
Being familiar with the 150 model, I was keen to give its big brother a run and recently I took the 200 Curado HG model on an afternoon sojourn to the local creek in the hope of testing it on a few willing barra. Imagine my surprise when it was suddenly connected to a powerful fish that ripped about 50m of line on its first run. Thoughts of a big barra were dashed when a fair lump of golden trevally eventually surfaced boatside. It turned out to be a solid test for the drag which functioned perfectly and is certain to handle any barra that you are likely to hook.
This Darwin Harbour golden trevally stripped 50m of line on its first run and turned out to be a solid test for the drag which functioned perfectly and is certain to handle any barra that you are likely to hook.
Casting a 24g swimbait was a no-chance affair and the micro module gearing provided for a smooth retrieve every time.
Anglers of all skill levels will appreciate the benefits of digital control, trouble-free casting in all conditions with the Curado DC 200. RRP: $499.00.