This is also from Japan Fishing Show 2019… New low-profile bait casting reel from SHIMANO, ANTARES ’19 is revealed.
The reels named as “Antares” are a lot, but this is a bit difference from all those previous Antares models. Here we introduce you some information.
Smaller but Narrower Spool
Previous ANTARES DC ’16 has had bigger spool such as Φ37mm diameter. So that long cast is really stable and specialised for bigger and heavier lures.
This new ANTARES’19 is in the opposite way, this has Φ34mm diameter spool, and the width is only 19mm. This actually gives you more stability for lighter lure casting unlike ANTARES DC ’16, so this is more “general use” low-profile bait casting reel from my impression.
This also has 3rd age Magnum Light Spool III, which has less thickness with same toughness comparing to other 1st and 2nd age MGL. This makes spool lighter than ever, so you can cast lighter rigs easier than ANTARES DC ’16.
New Break System SVS Infinity
This is new SHIMANO’s break system, centrifugal break system but you can adjust by outside dial lever. Therefore you don’t usually need to open the reel when adjusting break strength, so it can adjust very quick when you need.
To me this reel is, unlike the old ANTARES, basic use reel for bass lure fishing.
Why I said “bass use”? It’s because this is not saltwater compatible unfortunately.
Specs and Release Date
This new ANTARES’19 has one size, 2 type of gear ratio with left / right handed.
High gear right hand model is out on February, low gear right hand model will be on March, left handed model will be on April this year 2019.
| Model | Gear Ratio | Drag Power (kg) | Weight (g) | Capacity Mono (lb-m) | Retrieve Range (cm) | Bearing | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RIGHT | 6.2 | 5.0 | 220 | 12-100 14-90 16-80 20-65 | 66 | 10 / 1 | 58,000 |
| LEFT | 6.2 | 5.0 | 220 | 12-100 14-90 16-80 20-65 | 66 | 10 / 1 | 58,000 |
| HG RIGHT | 7.4 | 5.0 | 220 | 12-100 14-90 16-80 20-65 | 79 | 10 / 1 | 58,000 |
| HG LEFT | 7.4 | 5.0 | 220 | 12-100 14-90 16-80 20-65 | 79 | 10 / 1 | 58,000 |
* Braided line capacity is based on SHIMANO Ocea EX-8.
* All product information and images are basically from SHIMANO official website.
