Best Baitcasters 2018: Shimano Curado 200K

February 07, 2018 By Game & Fish Online Staff

This new Curado doesn't take a big slice out of the price tag of the original Curados, but it does include amazing technology, and is intrinsically durable, as any Shimano owner knows.

As part of Game & Fish's series of reviews of the best baitcasters 2018, we look at the Shimano Curado 200K.

By Pete Robbins

For well over two decades, the Curado has been the stalwart of tournament anglers everywhere and the anchor of the Shimano baitcasting lineup.

This newest version is $179.99, no more than reels of a decade ago, and it features technological advantages previously available only in the brand's highest-end showpieces.

The Curado is available in both left- and right-hand retrieve, and in three different gear ratios, all of which guarantees you'll see both tournament pros and weekend anglers headed out in the early morning with an arsenal of nothing but Curado K's.

Best Baitcasters 2018 Series

New baitcasting reels reviewed by Game & Fish

Abu Garcia's Revo X

Lew's Mach Crush Speed Spool SLP

Quantum Smoke S3

The folks at Shimano had a tough task improving on past iterations of this industry standard. However, by integrating the SVS Infinity Braking System, they've made it even more capable of throwing light lures than its predecessors. An added longer handle offers more power when cranking big baits or taming unruly fish in the slop.

High-end features previously found only in more expensive reels?

Shimano's X-Ship technology and MicroModule gearing provide exceptionally precise alignment among all of the reel's parts. This means whether you're winching on a 10-pound bass or a boss catfish that swallowed your spinnerbait, it won't give way.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gear Ratio 6.2:1, 7.4:1, 8.5:1

Line Capacity 110 yds / 14 lbs

Weight 7.6 oz

Bearings 6+1

Price $179.99

HIGH-END FEATURES

SVS braking system

MicroModule gearing

Downsized slightly over previous models

Freshwater and saltwater ready

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