Shimano products have been in existence since the 1920s and remain the anglers’ favorite brand. These products are highly durable and offer customer satisfaction. Shimano Citica and Curado reels are examples of quality and durable Shimano reels that provide incredible performance and ensure anglers’ comfort. The two reels come in different sizes and models, making them perfect for the different level anglers. They offer the power and strength needed for different species and fishing applications. Keep reading and get the difference between the two reels for a reasonable purchasing decision.
Shimano Citica vs. Curado : Head to Head Comparison Table
More About Shimano Citica
Shimano reels are known to be the smoothest reels. Shimano Citica reels are no exception. These reels are powered with features and technological advancements that enhance their performance.
They are shielded with five stainless steel ball bearings for smooth casts and an anti-reverse roller bearing that eliminates backlash and pull. Additionally, they feature a Power AL aluminum frame and super free spool technology. The reels also come with two gear ratio options, the 6.3:1 and 7.2:1, ensuring smooth retrieves.
These reels also offer a powerful and smooth drag due to their advanced cross-carbon drag system. Any angler working with these reels does not have to worry much about their maintenance. The built-in Escape Hatch ensures instant and easy maintenance. Shimano S3D technology reduces spool vibration by designing a balanced and uniform thin wall. Therefore, you are assured of a smooth feel when casting and retrieving lures.
Citica series reels come with an X-ship that provides improved gear durability by supporting the pinion gear on both ends with bearings. This way, the gear stays in the same position even with heavy loads. Hence, eliminating friction between the spool shaft and gear.
These reels also include an SVS infinity that provides easy to manage, consistent spool control and brake force. The SVS Infinity controls spool speed, especially when you are using light lures. There is also an external adjustment knob that provides quick and precise adjustments.
Pros
- X-ship reduces friction and enhances gear durability
- Smooth and powerful Drag System
- These reels ensure easy maintenance
- The anti-reverse roller bearing eliminates backlash and pull-backs.
- The stable spool delivers smooth running.
- The reel transports every handle turn and fits effectively
Cons
- These reels are difficult to dial
- They makes a loud noise when casting
- Sometimes these reels disconnects insensitivity.
More About Curado Reels
Shimano Curado reels are some of the best reels you will come across. They come in different models, including :
- Shimano Curado DC (Perfect for Freshwater)
- Shimano Curado K Baitcast Reel ( For Freshwater and Saltwater)
- Shimano Curado MGL 70K Low Profile Baitcast Reels
These reels’ gear ratio ranges from 6.2:1 to 8.5:1, ensuring smoother and longer casts. They offer a powerful and smooth drag with a maximum drag of 11lbs so that you can fight different fish species. These reels also have A-RB 6 stainless steel ball bearings and an anti-reverse bearing that ensures smooth casts while eliminating backlash.
They also feature a micro module gear system that enhances smooth retrieves and makes use of smaller teeth. Therefore ensuring more contact points between the drive gear and pinion gear. Additionally, an X-ship technology supports the pinion gear on both ends, maintaining gear durability and precise alignment.
The X-Ship technology also reduces friction between the spool shaft and gear, enhancing longer casts. Curado reels feature a HAGANE body that offers stiffness and impact resistance that eliminates body flexing. The SVS infinity technology also controls spool speed-enhancing precise casting, especially when you are using lighter lures. An external adjustment knob is also available, and it ensures quick, precise adjustments in varying conditions.
The C14 technology is one and half times stronger than Shimano’s XT-7 graphite, and it’s 20% lighter. Curado reels are less prone to rust as they do not contain metal. The reels’ super-free spool eliminates friction on the spool shaft when casting for an incredible performance. There is also an Intelligent Digital Control braking system that comes with four settings and an externally adjustable brake dial.
Pros
- They offer a smooth and powerful drag
- The reels provide precise and accurate casts
- Perfect for different fishing applications.
- The design is ergonomic
- The HAGANE body ensures durability and strength
- These reels are easy to use and adjust
Cons
- The circular mode switch is very stiff
- Some people found these reels a little bit heavy
Shimano Citica vs. Curado: What’s the Difference
Differentiating between Shimano Citica and Shimano Curado can be difficult. The two offer unmatched performance and quality and have similar features. However, if you’ve used the two, you will note a few differences between the two.
Bearing System
Shimano Citica reel has 5+1 ball bearings, while Shimano Curado has 6+1 ball bearings, which explains why Shimano Curado reels are smoother.
Spool
With the Shimano Curado reel, the spool is lighter, making it perfect for casting lighter baits. On the other hand, Shimano Citica’s spool is heavier and is ideal for heavier lures.
Gear Ratio
Shimano Citica reels’ gear ratios are in the range of 6.3:1 to 7.2:1, while Curado reels, gear ratios range from 6.1:1 to 8.5:1. Hence Curado reels have a more powerful gear ratio that enhances their retrieves.
Side Plates
The side plates of the two vary in their materials. Shimano Citica reels have graphite side plates, while Shimano Curado reels have aluminum side plates.
Final Impression
Most Anglers agree that you can never go wrong with Shimano reels. Shimano Citica and Shimano Curado reels are some of the best Shimano reels you will find in the market. The two reels are closely related, and choosing which is better between the two can be challenging. However, after you’ve used the two, you can easily tell there is a difference. The bearing system, gear ratio, and material of the two are different. The two also differ in their casting. Curado reel is better as it has a sturdy construction and is smoother. However, some anglers prefer the citica reel, so the choice is entirely on the angler.