August 06, 2025
By Shane Beilue
Like two rails of a train track, the adage “big baits catch big fish” runs parallel with the rise in popularity of the downsized finesse approach to catching big bass. Both methods of catching bass are valid; the former adds a stronger dose of adrenaline when a big fish eats an oversized glide bait.
Whether lobbing big glides, umbrella rigs or magnum crankbaits, the proper tackle setup is crucial to these heavy-duty techniques, with lures often weighing 3 to 4 ounces. Shimano has answered the call by introducing the new Outlier series of rods, as well as an updated version of the Tranx 300 baitcaster, the Tranx 300 B.
SHIMANO OUTLIER ROD
There are six Outlier rods in the new series, ranging from 7 feet 4 inches to 8 feet in length. My test model was a 7-foot 9-inch, 2-piece version designed for lure weights of 1 to 4 ounces. Most of my work with the Outlier rod was with Shimano’s Gravitator glide bait, which is 7.75 inches in length and weighs nearly 4 ounces.
An extended handle on the Outlier helps leverage a long cast with the glide bait. I was pleased with the textured EVA foam grip at the base of the handle that adds a nice ergonomic feel when casting.
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Shimano has included their CI4+ reel seat, which is found in many of their top-of-the-line rod models. This reel seat is light, yet very rigid and won’t flex or separate from the reel under a heavy load.
Another critical technology found in the Outlier is Shimano’s Spiral-X. This crosshatch carbon weave extends the length of the rod blank to add resistance to torsion (twisting) while increasing hoop strength.
In using the rod over several weeks, I’m pleased with its strength through the mid-section for lobbing the heavy glide bait and magnum cranks, but I also believe Shimano got the actions right by not making a rod that’s overly stiff from tip to butt. The rod flexes well in the back cast for adding length to the cast but also flexes deeply while playing a fish without ripping the hooks out of the bass’ mouth.
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SHIMANO TRANX REEL
The Tranx 300 has been in the Shimano lineup for some time, with the newest “B” version featuring a couple of notable upgrades. For those who fish in saltwater, Shimano added seals in the removable palm plate to keep salt out of the internal components.
A CoreSolid body is Shimano’s ultra-rigid frame that won’t flex or twist under heavy loads. An SVS MD Braking System is a beefed-up brake with an 8-pin internal centrifugal brake with an external dial for fine-tuning the cast. I’m also a fan of their MicroModule Gears, which feature finely cut teeth in the gear for exceptionally smooth and quiet operation when casting or retrieving.
