The recently introduced Shimano Curado M Series baitcaster is a successor to the popular Curado K Series. The Curado K series has been around since about 2018 and reinstated the Curado’s status as a go-to for a reliable, durable, quality baitcast reel. The new M series builds on the excellent K model with the inclusion of some internal upgrades in addition to the slight dimensional and external cosmetic changes.
The M series Curado features the continuation of Shimano’s familiar K model technologies which include: Hagane Frame, Micromodule Gearing, 6+1 S A-RB Bearings, SVS Infinity cast control, X-Ship pinion bearing support and a Cross carbon drag rated at up to 6kg.
The Curado M Series offers three gear ratios – 6.2:1, 7.4:1, and 8.5:1 – which cover a host of fishing techniques and preferences. The test reel was a Curado 200 HG with a gear ration of 7.4:1.
Cosmetically, the new M series has very dark green side-plates; they almost appears black at first glance. The gold highlights on the previous K model have been replaced by a straight silver finish on the cast control knob, star drag and handle. The frame on the new reel is finished in a gloss black in contrast to the matt texture on the side-plates.
The main upgrades are internal and include a precision, low-inertia, thin-walled MGL Spool III, plus the addition of Silent Tune which prevents unnecessary spool vibration for a smoother, longer casting experience. The spool on the new model is slightly narrower than on the K model but line capacity remains the same at 190m of 30 pound braid line because the diameter of the spool sides has been increased slightly. The Curado 200 M HG weighs 215gm.
Once dialled in, the new Curado exhibited good manners while casting and it was easy to fall into a relaxed cast/retrieve routine without requiring the constant concentration that some baitcaster reels demand. Less refined baitcasters have a tendency to snarl if operator technique and timing lapse momentarily; however, the new Curado with MGL spool III technology, Silent Tune refinement and SVS cast control all combined efficiently for stress-free casting. Retrieves are predictably smooth and effortless courtesy of the micro module gearing driven by the 98mm length handle which is adorned with generous size paddles. The test reel provided 4.5kg of drag by tightening the star as much as possible by hand without resorting to pliers assist. When adjusted to a reasonable working level, the drag was predictably consistent and smooth running.
Once dialled in, the new Curado exhibited good manners while casting and it was easy to fall into a relaxed cast/retrieve routine without requiring the constant concentration that some baitcaster reels demand.
Shimano Curados are engineered to withstand the test of time, which is evident by many early-model Curado reels still in use and keenly sought after; their enduring reliability and performance are long-cherished by serious anglers, including prominent professional fishing guides. It would appear that the new “M” model will continue this tradition of ensuring exceptional reliability and durability on every fishing excursion.
The all new Curado M Series reels are designed with advanced protection against corrosion, making them ideal for rigorous use in freshwater and salt water environments.