Electric reels make offshore fishing much easier, especially in deep waters. When the bites are slow or you’re constantly changing depths, having a reel that can automatically retrieve the line is a game-changer.
However, electric reels are often expensive, making them inaccessible to many anglers. Fortunately, SHIMANO has introduced a new, entry-level series of large electric reels—the SHIMANO Plays 3000 and Plays 4000—that combine impressive performance with an affordable price.
Let’s dive into the features of these exciting models, now available for purchase.
Large Line Capacities: PE6-300m for the 3000 and PE6-500m for the 4000
The Plays series has gained popularity as a budget-friendly yet capable option. With the 2024 update, SHIMANO expanded the lineup with larger 3000 and 4000 sizes to meet the needs of offshore and deep-water anglers.
The Plays 3000 holds up to 300 meters of PE6 line, making it suitable for targeting Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper, and other powerful fish at depths over 100 meters.
The Plays 4000 offers even greater capacity—500 meters of PE6 line—perfect for reaching 300 to 400-meter depths, where species like Alfonsino and large Rockfish roam.
Enhanced Motors for More Power
Despite their entry-level pricing, both models come with upgraded motors.
The Plays 3000 features a power-tuned Muteki Motor, delivering 6.5 kg of continuous winding force—enough for handling stubborn deep-sea targets.
The Plays 4000, though not specifically using the Muteki branding, is equipped with a motor offering an impressive 10 kg of continuous winding force, giving you the power needed to battle large pelagic species like Tuna and Mackerel.
HAGANE Body and Carbon Washer Drag for Tough Fights
To support these strong motors, both reels are built with a HAGANE Body, offering durability and rigidity under high load.
The carbon washer drag system provides smooth and heat-resistant performance, essential for fighting fast, long-running fish. Whether you’re targeting mid-depth predators or deep-swimming monsters, these reels deliver dependable strength.
Extra Feature on the Plays 3000: Fire Mach System
The Plays 3000 includes SHIMANO’s Fire Mach System, which places S A-RB ball bearings around the spool for smoother rotation and faster line deployment—similar to the Super Free Spool found in smaller baitcasting reels.
This feature boosts efficiency in bait fishing, letting you drop your rig quickly and retrieve with ease. It’s ideal for maximizing time in the strike zone.
Specs and Release Date
The Plays 4000 and Plays 3000 are now officially available in stores and online.
If you’re looking to step into the world of electric reels without breaking the bank, the SHIMANO Plays 3000/4000 series offers excellent performance, modern features, and the power to handle deep-water gamefish—all at a reasonable price.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Max Drag Power (kg) | Weight (g) | Spool Size (dia./width – mm) | Capacity Mono (lb-m) | Capacity Braid (Gou-m) | MAX Line Retrieve (cm) | Handle Length (mm) | Bearings | Practical Hoisting Power (kg) | Max Retrieval Speed (m/min) | Practical Retrieval Speed (m/min) under 1kg Load | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3000 | 3.9 | 15 | 685 | 57/46 | 5-420, 6-350, 7-300, 8-240 | #4-450 #5-350 #6-300 #8-200 | 70 | 75 | 4/0 | 6.5 | 150 | 129 | 69,900 |
| 4000 | 3.2 | 15 | 1245 | 68/61.5 | 5-610, 6-530, 7-360, 10-290 | #5-600 #6-500 #8-300 #10-270 | 68 | 75 | 2/0 | 10 | 170 | 133 | 79,000 |
* Braided line capacity is based on Japanese size “Gou”. Please refer to Gou and Diameter table to see diameters of each Gou.
Check them out today and see how electric reels can transform your offshore fishing experience.
