Shakespeare has been a prime leader in producing top-quality fishing equipment since 1897, making them one of the oldest fishing equipment manufacturers in the United States. As a brand, they value affordability, value, and performance with every reel and rod they manufacture. The brand is perhaps best known for their Ugly Stik rod, a favorite amongst all types of anglers. This rod was the first to feature a clear tip and the first to be made out of virtually indestructible material.
One of the biggest values that Shakespeare holds true to is that each and every family member, regardless of age or skill level, should have access to quality fishing equipment. In fact, in 2011, ICAST awarded Shakespeare with a “Best Kids Tackle” award, recognizing their efforts to make fishing fun and accessible to all ages.
Their dedication to accessibility points to the company’s passion for and inherent love of fishing—a passion that has thrived for well over a century of rod and reel production.
Table of Contents
- The Top-Rated Shakespeare Reels
- 1. Shakespeare Synergy Ti14Sc Blister Reel
- Additional Elements to Consider:
- 2. Shakespeare SYMCX Synergy Micro Spincast Reel
- Additional Elements to Consider:
- 3. Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel
- Additional Elements to Consider:
- 4. Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel
- Additional Elements to Consider:
- 5. Shakespeare Agility Low Profile Reel
- Additional Elements to Keep in Mind:
- Conclusion
The Top-Rated Shakespeare Reels
When looking for the best Shakespeare reel for your fishing needs, it can be difficult to narrow down your search. There are many available options, and even more product specifications to consider. This review will take an in-depth look at the top rated reels that are currently on the market.
- Shakespeare Synergy Ti14Sc
- 2 ball bearings
- Polished stainless steel cover and cone
- Titanium line guide
- Ergonomic handle
- Shakespeare SYMCX Synergy Micro
- Polished stainless steel front and cover
- Anti-reverse and bait clicker function
- Titanium line guide
- Adjustable multi-disc drag system
- Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel
- Three ball bearings
- Ported spool to increase lightweight feel
- Adjustable anti-reverse settings
- Adjustable handle placement
- Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel
- Cold-forged aluminum spool
- Smooth multi-disc drag system
- 1 ball bearing
- Convertible handle for left or right-hand retrieve
- Shakespeare Agility Low Profile
- Adjustable magnetic cast control
- Machined aluminum ported spool
- Instant anti-reverse bearings
- Brass drive and pinion gears
To provide expert guidance when searching for Shakespeare reels, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top five reels that have gained consistent amounts of praise, from professional and amateur anglers alike. Each and every component of these reels is closely analyzed to see what qualities set these Shakespeare reels apart from the competition.
By looking at the top-rated Shakespeare reels, each and every fisherman will find themselves well-equipped to choose the perfect Shakespeare reel for their fishing needs, no matter what age or skill level.
1. Shakespeare Synergy Ti14Sc Blister Reel
The Shakespeare Synergy line is well-known for being a top-quality, effective spincast model. Part of this is due to its solid and durable construction, ensuring that its high performance is preserved over long periods of time. The polished stainless steel cover and cone protect the internal gears and mechanisms, keeping everything in proper alignment, regardless of any external wear and tear. Unique to this Synergy model is the addition of two ball bearings, increasing overall strength, and precision.
The Synergy Ti14Sc model also comes equipped with Insta-Grab dual titanium pickup pins, enhancing the overall performance of the reel. The polished metal handle comes with soft-grip rubble knobs, lending an ergonomic quality to the reel.
This results in a seamless precisely controlled cast. When combined with the X-Ship gearing system, SVS Infinity braking provides an enhanced level of control over speed, distance, and weight that not many baitcasting reels can match.
Additional Elements to Consider:
At 10.6 ounces, this particular Shakespeare reel is certainly a little heavier than most. The overall design is also larger, due to the need to store additional fishing line. For spincast reels, these features are relatively common, and are even seen as staples of the reel type. Still, when looking to purchase a Shakespeare reel, keep in mind that the Synergy Ti does carry an additional amount of weight and bulk, so the rod will need to be matched accordingly.
2. Shakespeare SYMCX Synergy Micro Spincast Reel
At only 5.2 ounces, this Shakespeare reel is one of the lightest and most compact spincast reels available on the market today. Its lightweight nature doesn't compromise durability: the majority of this reel is made from stainless steel and titanium, meaning that this reel will stand up to the toughest weather conditions.
The reel comes with one ball bearing and an impressive 4.1:1 gear ratio to keep casting and retrieval at top levels of speed and efficiency. The adjustable multi-disc drag system is a huge benefit as well, making sure that drag power and speed is adjusted to suit individual needs.
The Shakespeare SYMCX Synergy Micro reel provides high level, quality performance for a fraction of the price of competing spincast reels. Customers love the overall portability of this reel, calling it the perfect reel to bring along while camping or backpacking.
Additional Elements to Consider:
One of the greatest features of the Synergy Micro is that it manages to combine durability with compact and lightweight qualities, a feature that should not go ignored. With the Synergy Micro, anglers can have a compact and durable spincast reel without compromising weight. Not only is this a desirable feature for transporting the reel, but it also makes fishing for longer periods of time more feasible, as there is less joint strain.
3. Shakespeare Contender Spinning Reel
The Shakespeare Contender spinning reel offers tough, high-quality components that are built to provide the best possible performance when out on the water. The three ball bearings are supported by an additional anti-reverse clutch bearing. As an added benefit, the anti-reverse is completely adjustable, so anglers can choose to turn the anti-reverse off and on depending on their personal preference.
The handle is easily converted between left-hand and right-hand configuration, making for a perfectly customizable Shakespeare reel. Not only does this make the purchase process much more streamlined, but it also allows for a variety of uses from a variety of anglers. This means that this Shakespeare reel could probably be used by anyone, increasing overall accessibility.
With eight reel sizes ranging from 20-70, anglers are sure to find a variety of options when looking for the right size, weight, and gear ratio.
The gear ratios for the Shakespeare Contender fall within a range of 4.1:1, 5.1:1, 5.2:1, and 5.5:1, all maintaining competitive ratios of strength and power within the spinning reel category.
Additional Elements to Consider:
Depending upon the model size, anglers will find an extra feature to the Shakespeare Contender. The Magna bail wire has been enhanced and oversized for sizes 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40. This increases the overall durability of the bail, ensuring that the reel can continue exhibiting strength and reliability with every spin of the spool.
4. Shakespeare Crusader Spinning Reel
For anglers who are looking for an affordable, reliable spinning reel to get the job done with minimal fuss, this Shakespeare reel is the perfect option. With a 5.2:1 gear ratio, the size 25, 35, and 40 spinning reels are well-equipped to exert just the right amount of power and friction to bring in stubborn fish. The smooth multi-disc drag system provides a fluid and reliable drag, each and every time.
In fact, the drag system is what reviewers tend to love the most, stating that the drag is surprisingly smooth. The cold-forged aluminum spool provides enhanced stability without sacrificing weight, as aluminum is much more lightweight than stainless steel.
At 9.4 ounces, this Shakespeare reel manages to strike a healthy balance between lighter and heavier reel weights. This means that joint stress will be drastically reduced when compared to heavier spinning reel models.
Additional Elements to Consider:
Out of the Crusader series, the only Shakespeare reel to surpass the 5.2:1 gear ratio is the size 30 model. This size comes with a slightly enhanced gear ratio, at 5.5:1. For anglers who tend to prefer higher gear ratios, the size 30 Crusader model will likely be the better option.
5. Shakespeare Agility Low Profile Reel
For anglers who prefer a low profile baitcast reel, the Shakespeare Agility series is a worthwhile option to consider. The smooth and sleek style is supported by equally smooth performance, making for increased casting and retrieving success when out on the water.
.A brass drive and brass pinion gears provide enhanced durability, even through years of wear and tear. At only 6.4 ounces, this is an incredibly lightweight baitcasting reel, easing stress on joints and muscles and making it much easier to spend hours fishing.
The three-bearing system includes one roller bearing to create the instant anti-reverse feature, further ensuring the success of each and every hook. Additionally, this Shakespeare reel comes with an impressive 6.2:1 gear ratio, making this reel an impressive and worthwhile choice for baitcast fishermen.
Additional Elements to Keep in Mind:
For anglers looking for an affordable entry into learning how to use baitcast reels, this Shakespeare reel is an excellent choice. Not only is it lightweight, but it is also incredibly easy to use. This makes for a smooth transition into learning how to use baitcasting reels.
Conclusion
With over a century of history in producing fishing equipment, Shakespeare reels have always offered high levels of technology and innovation. Their continued commitment to making the most affordable and accessible reels on the market continues their reputation for being a competitive and trusted brand.
Choosing the best Shakespeare reel for you means taking a close look at the top-rated Shakespeare fishing reels. Closely examining these highly praised reels can help pinpoint the best Shakespeare reel for your fishing needs, particularly if you are in the market for a dependable and efficient beginners reel.
Regardless of the reel that you choose, anglers of all backgrounds and experience levels can rest assured that investing in a Shakespeare fishing reel means investing in dedication to accessibility, performance, and innovation that has lasted for over 100 years.
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I was given a combo uglystick with Shakespeare model csp30 almost a year ago. On 10-18 while using a screw fell out along with a washer and bering . I was told you no longerhave parts for this reel, but if it was sent in you would give me a discount on another reel! I guess it is just junk so I’ll throw it away and get a better brand!