Shimano Report

Shimano’s “DC” Anti-backlash Feature Now Offered in More Affordable Models

Shimano’s Digital Control (DC) braking system is now within reach of all anglers and budgets with the new ICAST award-winning SLX DC 150 series that are now available at tackle shops for under $200.

Built on the proven ‘Can’t Stop Fishing’ SLX low-profile platform with a sturdy all-metal HAGANE Body, the reels utilize the same I-DC4 digital brake control system used on Shimano’s popular Curado DC reels to drastically reduces the learning curves for anglers new to baitcasting reels, and also raises the performance level in casting dynamics among experienced anglers.

The new reels include the SLX DC150 and left-hand retrieve DC151 with 6.2:1 gear ratios, the SLX DC150HG and DC151HG with 7.4:1 gear ratios, and the even higher speed SLX DC150XG and DC151XG with 8.5:1 gear ratios.

Be it working lots of water with crankbaits, using fluorocarbon for finesse techniques, skipping docks or casting just about any hard lure or soft bait when dealing with windy conditions, the SLX DC reels feature Shimano’s I-DC4 digital control technology which utilizes a microcomputer to control brake force at every moment of the cast. The unique technology provides everyone from the most avid tournament angler to those who are intimidated by baitcasting reels and the backlashes that can happen to cast smarter by allowing the DC’s microcomputer to monitor spool speed 1,000 times every second and apply the perfect amount of brake to prevent backlashes and maximize distance.

With the I-DC4 braking technology, anglers can fish a variety of lures and in any weather conditions, with limited-to-no adjustments to the reel. There are four external adjustable brake settings depending on fishing situations. The settings are a ‘max distance mode’ for ultra-long casts in calmer conditions; a ‘braid/mono mode’ for general all-around use of those types of lines; a ‘fluorocarbon mode’ that is best when using these denser lines; and a ‘max brake mode’ for challenging casts (under docks and piers) or extreme conditions, and also the perfect mode for those who now want to fish with the advantages provide by baitcasting reels.

All six SLX DC reels will hold from l50 yards of 20-pound test and up to 105 yards of 40-pound test standard PowerPro braid, or up to 120 yards of 10-pound test and up to 90 yards of 14-pound test mono. The DC 150/151 cranks in 26 inches of line per rotation, while the DC150HG/151HG reels in 31-inches per crank. The DC150XG/151XG blisters in 36 inches of line per crank. All the reels feature the distinct SLX series black frame with blue accent colors on the spool and cast control knob. They all retail for $189.99.