The SHIMANO Scorpion MD 300, a low-profile baitcasting reel designed for big fish and large lures, has been revamped for 2024! Originally launched in 2021, this powerful reel now features significant upgrades to meet the demands of serious anglers.
When we reviewed the SHIMANO Scorpion MD 200 recently on our Youtube channel, we wondered if an updated MD 300 might be on the horizon, but we honestly expected the announcement much later. Imagine my surprise when SHIMANO revealed it for the end of 2024!
Let’s dive into what’s new.
CoreSolid Body for Superior Strength
One of the most exciting upgrades is the adoption of a CoreSolid Body.
While the material is likely the same aluminum as the previous model, the one-piece construction of the CoreSolid Body makes this reel significantly tougher and more rigid.
From my experience with other CoreSolid-equipped reels, this design enhances the reel’s rigidity and provides smoother cranking, which is fantastic news for anglers targeting big fish. Whether you’re fishing in tough conditions like rock shore or offshore or battling large species, this upgrade makes the Scorpion MD 300 a reliable choice.
SVS Infinity MD Tune for Enhanced Brake Adjustments
Another major improvement is the SVS Infinity braking system, which replaces the previous SVS brakes. This upgrade allows anglers to fine-tune brake settings easily using an external dial—no need to open the hatch unless you’re making significant changes.
With 8 brake blocks, the reel can handle giant lures effortlessly. During my review of the MD 200, I highlighted the versatility of this dial brake system, which even allows for intermediate settings between dial numbers. It offers unmatched freedom to find the perfect brake balance for your casting style.
However, one downside is the absence of an escape hatch. While the SVS system still requires some internal adjustments at times, the lack of an escape hatch makes the process less convenient. Considering the MD 200 included this feature, I had hoped the MD 300 would follow suit—but unfortunately, it doesn’t.
Specs and Release Date
The MD 300 lineup retains the same configurations as the previous model, with a 300-size body, XG gear ratio, and options for right-handed, left-handed, and left-handed long handle (LH) models.
One notable change is the gear ratio, which has been reduced from 7.9 to 7.6, resulting in a slight drop in maximum retrieve speed—from 107 cm to 103 cm per crank. This adjustment may reflect an optimization for more controlled reeling speeds.
The spool size remains unchanged, with a 43mm diameter and 22mm width. Unfortunately, it does not feature an MGL spool.
The right-handle models are set for release in December 2024, while the left-handle models will follow in January 2025, as is often the case.
This update makes the SHIMANO Scorpion MD 300 a strong contender for anglers seeking a durable and user-friendly reel for big game fishing.
| Model | Gear Ratio | 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 | Price (yen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300XG RIGHT | 7.6 | 8 | 325 | 43/22 | 16-210, 20-160, 25-135 | 4-180, 5-140, 6-120 | 103 | 45 | 7/1 | 38,500 |
| 301XG LEFT | 7.6 | 8 | 325 | 43/22 | 16-210, 20-160, 25-135 | 4-180, 5-140, 6-120 | 103 | 45 | 7/1 | 38,500 |
| 300XGLH RIGHT | 7.6 | 8 | 325 | 43/22 | 16-210, 20-160, 25-135 | 4-180, 5-140, 6-120 | 103 | 51 | 7/1 | 38,500 |
| 301XGLH LEFT | 7.6 | 8 | 325 | 43/22 | 16-210, 20-160, 25-135 | 4-180, 5-140, 6-120 | 103 | 51 | 7/1 | 38,500 |
* Braided line capacity is based on Japanese size “Gou”. Please refer to Gou and Diameter table to see diameters of each Gou.
