Reviews: Key Opinions on the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE Surf Fishing Reel
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a powerful and smooth surfcasting reel that’s winning over anglers with its impressive performance and versatility. It boasts a high line capacity, strong drag system, and lightweight design, making it ideal for tackling a wide range of fish species.
Reviewers consistently praise its smooth operation and ability to handle tough fights with ease. With its sleek aesthetics and reputation for quality, the Shimano Ultegra XSE is a top contender in the surfcasting reel market.
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a surfcasting reel that’s caught the eye of many anglers. In this review, we’ll break down its key features, assess its performance on the water, and weigh the pros and cons to help you determine if it’s the perfect match for your fishing adventures.
Editorial Review: Our Opinion on the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE Surf Fishing Reel
Product Type / Mono Line Capacity / Gear Ratio
This surf fishing reel has a line capacity of 550 m / 0.35 mm and a gear ratio of 4.3:1.
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a dedicated surf fishing reel with a mono line capacity of 550 m / 0.35 mm and a gear ratio of 4.3:1. This combination provides ample line capacity for long-distance casting and a moderate retrieval speed suitable for various surf fishing techniques.
Line capacity and gear ratio are crucial factors to consider when selecting a surf fishing reel. Line capacity determines how much line you can spool, while the gear ratio affects the speed of line retrieval.
With its line capacity of 550 m / 0.35 mm, the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE shares second place in our comparison with the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD. Only the HAUT TON NGK 14000 has an even higher line capacity of 600 yd / 20 lb (converted 648 m / 0.35 mm).
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE falls within the typical gear ratio range for surfcasting reels, which is generally between 4.3:1 and 4.9:1.
If you’re looking for reels with higher gear ratios better suited for techniques requiring frequent lure retrieval, consider the Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC or the Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000, both with 5.3:1 gear ratios.
Number of Ball Bearings / Type of Brake / Drag Force
With 5 ball bearings and a front brake, the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE delivers a drag force of 44.1 lbs (20 kg).
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is equipped with 5 ball bearings and a front drag system with a maximum drag force of 44.1 lbs (20 kg), offering ample stopping power for challenging surf fishing scenarios.
The number of ball bearings contributes to the smoothness and durability of a reel, while the drag force is essential for controlling and tiring out strong fish.
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE offers a high drag force compared to other models in our comparison, second only to the HAUT TON NGK 14000 with 53 lbs (24 kg).
Weight / Material
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE weighs 585 g and is crafted from CI4+ material.
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE features a CI4+ body, contributing to its overall weight of 585 g. This lightweight material provides a balance of strength and reduced weight for comfortable handling.
Weight can be a significant factor in angler fatigue, especially during long casting sessions. Lighter reels offer advantages for those who want to use the reel for other fishing styles or desire longer casting distances.
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE falls within the mid-range of weights in our comparison. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider the Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC (440 g) or the Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000 (482 g).
Saltwater Resistance / Baitrunner
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is not saltwater resistant and does not have a baitrunner function.
While the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE does not have specific saltwater resistance features, it can still be used in saltwater environments with proper care and maintenance. It also does not include a baitrunner feature.
Saltwater resistance is a crucial factor for reels used in saltwater environments to prevent corrosion and ensure longevity. A baitrunner function allows for controlled release of line when a fish takes the bait, a feature often favored by carp anglers and those targeting certain species.
If you require a saltwater-resistant reel, consider the HAUT TON NGK 14000 or Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC. If you need a surf fishing reel equipped with a baitrunner function, the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast is an excellent choice.
Customer Reviews: Summary of Feedback from Product Owners
The Shimano Ultegra XSE surf fishing reel is a popular choice, boasting a solid 4.2 out of 5-star rating on Amazon and Tackle Direct. This rating is based on reviews from 20 anglers who have shared their experiences with the reel.
Let’s take a closer look at what they have to say:
- I loved it.
- This reel is a complete powerhorse and smooth as I’ve never seen before. Caught over 5 bluefish and Jacks and a Bull Red Drum without hesitation. Definitely going on my top 5 reels.
- Good reel. I like the 44 lbs max drag.
Reviews from other countries
- Excellent reel, and it’s indeed the right model.
- Good quality and excellent value.
- The reel comes with two spools and four reducers to be able to fill with thin line approximately 200 meters of 0.16 or 0.18, very happy with the purchase.
The Shimano Ultegra XSE is making a splash with anglers who appreciate its power and smoothness. One reviewer even called it a “complete powerhouse” after landing several bluefish, jacks, and a bull red drum without any hesitation.
Others have praised its high maximum drag, which provides ample stopping power for battling strong fish. The overall quality and value of the reel are also highlighted in the reviews.
Anglers have been impressed with the smoothness of its operation and the versatility offered by the two included spools and four reducers. This allows for customization with different line types and capacities, making the Ultegra XSE adaptable to various fishing situations.
Overall, the Shimano Ultegra XSE appears to be a well-received reel that delivers on its promises of power, smoothness, and versatility. Anglers are clearly impressed with its performance and features, making it a worthy contender in its class.
The Shimano Ultegra XSE sports a sleek, understated design with a silver body and black accents. This classic color combination gives it a timeless look that blends well with any rod and reel setup, while the overall aesthetic exudes a sense of quality and sophistication.
The special features of this very strong fishing reel are its very high line capacity and its very high drag force. In terms of these two values, it occupies second place in our comparison, together with the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD.
Compared to the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD (645 g), the Ultegra 14000 XSE is even significantly lighter with its weight of 585 g.
If you’re looking for a reel that’s both powerful and lightweight, the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a great option. It offers a fantastic balance of features and performance, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of surf fishing applications.
It’s more than capable of handling powerful fish, with anglers successfully landing species like bluefish, amberjacks, and bull red drums. This reel truly shines in demanding situations, providing the strength and reliability needed to tackle challenging fights.
Pros and Cons of the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE Surf Fishing Reel
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a well-loved surf fishing reel offering a smooth retrieve, high line capacity, and powerful drag, making it ideal for anglers targeting larger species.
While not specifically saltwater resistant, proper care ensures its performance in harsh conditions. This reel delivers a fantastic balance of features and value, making it a great choice for any surf fishing enthusiast.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 20 customers (4.2 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Second highest line capacity in our comparison
- Second highest drag force in our comparison
- Very smooth
- Good value for money
Cons
- Not saltwater resistant
The Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a popular reel among anglers, earning a solid 4.2 out of 5-star rating based on over 20 customer reviews from Amazon and Tackle Direct.
It boasts the second-highest line capacity and drag force in our comparison, making it a strong contender for anglers targeting larger fish species. Users consistently praise its smooth operation, which enhances the overall fishing experience.
This reel offers good value for money, providing a balance of performance and features at a competitive price point. It’s a versatile option suitable for various surf fishing applications, and its smooth operation makes it a joy to use, whether you’re casting or retrieving.
One potential drawback is that the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is not specifically designed for saltwater resistance. However, with proper care and maintenance, such as rinsing with freshwater after each use, it can still perform well in saltwater environments.
Overall, the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE is a well-rounded reel that offers a compelling combination of high line capacity, powerful drag, and smooth operation. It’s a great choice for anglers seeking a versatile and reliable reel for surf fishing adventures.
FAQ: The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE Surf Fishing Reel
What oscillation technology does the Shimano Ultegra XSE have?
The Shimano Ultegra XSE utilizes Shimano’s Super Slow 5 Oscillation technology. This advanced oscillation system is designed to improve line lay and casting performance.
It works by moving the spool slowly up and down during line retrieval, resulting in a more even distribution of line across the spool. This reduces friction and improves casting distance and accuracy.
This reel is made in Malaysia.
Is this reel fully sealed?
While the Shimano Ultegra XSE boasts excellent features like X-Protect to enhance water resistance, it’s not a fully sealed reel. This means it has some protection against water intrusion, but it’s not completely impervious to the elements.
However, with proper care and maintenance, such as rinsing with freshwater after each use, the Shimano Ultegra XSE can still hold up well in saltwater conditions.
- Amazon
- Own experience