Shimano Metanium: One Smooth Operator

Metanium might sound like an alloy used on the International Space Station, but it’s actually one of Shimano’s newest high-tech low-profile reels.

Starting with the rigid Hagane body that eliminates flex, the Metanium also comes with the Micro Module Gear System. That means finer and more numerous gear teeth mesh precisely between the drive and pinion gears so the retrieve is slicker than a wet pompano. X-Ship alignment adds to the precision, along with the standard nine ball and one roller bearings. This is one smooth operator.

If you want exact spool control, Metanium offers that too with SVS Infinity braking technology. And if on-the-fly tweaking is necessary, an external fine-adjust wheel will let you dial it in to match conditions.

With six models for righties and southpaws, and a choice of three gear ratios, the Metanium is an elite fishing tool. Tipping the postage meter at an anorexic 6 to 6.2 ounces, it is light enough to cast all day and night. But don’t dismiss this model as just another flashy featherweight. Fourteen pounds of max drag is more than enough power to stop charging bull reds, as I discovered while wading off Louisiana’s barrier islands.

If you are looking to add extreme finesse to your inshore or inland arsenal, put a Metanium on your favorite casting rod. It really is out-of-this-world good.

For more information, please visit: http://fish.shimano.com/