Reviews: Key Opinions on the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD Surf Fishing Reel
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is a highly praised reel known for its smoothness, powerful drag, and long casting ability. It’s lightweight and compact, making it suitable for both surf and spin fishing.
While it lacks saltwater resistance, its overall performance and quality make it an excellent choice for anglers seeking a versatile and reliable reel.
This in-depth review explores the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD surfcasting reel, examining its features and performance. We also analyze user feedback to highlight the reel’s strengths and weaknesses, providing a balanced perspective for anglers.
Editorial Review: Our Opinion on the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD Surf Fishing Reel
Product Type / Mono Line Capacity / Gear Ratio
This surf fishing reel has a line capacity of 290 m / 0.35 mm and a gear ratio of 5.3:1.
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is a surf fishing reel with a mono line capacity of 290 m / 0.35 mm and a high-speed gear ratio of 5.3:1, making it suitable for various fishing styles beyond surfcasting.
Surfcasting reels typically have line capacities ranging from 200 m / 0.35 mm to 600 m / 0.35 mm, with gear ratios between 4.3:1 and 4.9:1 for powerful retrieves and less frequent retrieval needs.
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD, with its 290 m / 0.35 mm line capacity, falls within the typical range for surfcasting reels. Its 5.3:1 gear ratio, however, is higher than the average, making it more versatile for techniques requiring frequent lure retrieval.
If you’re looking for reels with even higher line capacities, consider these 3 models:
- HAUT TON NGK 14000 (600 yd / 20 lb (converted 648 m / 0.35 mm))
- Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD (550 m / 0.35 mm)
- Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE (550 m / 0.35 mm)
In our surf fishing reel comparison, only the Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC and the Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000 also have a gear ratio of 5.3:1.
Number of Ball Bearings / Type of Brake / Drag Force
With 4 ball bearings and a front brake, the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD offers a drag force of 33.1 lbs (15 kg).
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD features 4 ball bearings, which contribute to smooth reel operation, and a front drag system with a maximum drag force of 33.1 lbs (15 kg), providing sufficient stopping power for most fish encountered in surf fishing.
The number of ball bearings in surfcasting reels can significantly impact smoothness and durability. Drag force is crucial for handling strong fish, and values typically range from 20 lbs to 50 lbs.
For reels with higher drag forces for battling larger fish, consider these models from our surfcasting reels comparison:
- HAUT TON NGK 14000 (53 lbs (24 kg))
- Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSD (44.1 lbs (20 kg))
- Shimano Ultegra 14000 XSE (44.1 lbs (20 kg))
- Okuma Flite 12000A (40 lbs (18.1 kg))
Weight / Material
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD weighs 500 g and is constructed from XT-7.
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is made of durable XT-7 composite material and weighs 500 g, striking a balance between strength and weight.
Weight can be a factor in casting distance and fatigue, particularly for anglers who also use their reels for other fishing styles.
The weights of the surfcasting reels in our comparison range from 440 g to 844 g. With a weight of only 500 g, the Ultegra 5500 XTD is the third lightest model in our comparison.
Anglers prioritizing lighter surf fishing reels might consider the Shimano Ultegra CI4+ 5500 XTC (440 g) or the Okuma Rockaway Surf 6000 (482 g), both renowned for their lightweight yet strong construction.
Saltwater Resistance / Baitrunner
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is not saltwater resistant and does not have a baitrunner function.
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is not specifically designed for saltwater environments and requires thorough rinsing after each use in saltwater to prevent corrosion. It also lacks a baitrunner feature.
Saltwater resistance is a crucial factor for reels used in saltwater environments to prevent corrosion. A baitrunner function allows for controlled release of line when a fish takes the bait.
If you require a surf fishing reel with a baitrunner function, consider the Shimano Baitrunner XTB Big Longcast. This reel provides the convenience of a baitrunner for various fishing situations.
Customer Reviews: Summary of Feedback from Product Owners
Based on 313 reviews across Amazon and Tackle Direct, the Shimano Ultegra XTD surf fishing reel has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Here’s a closer look at how buyers rated this reel:
- The reel is smooth and has a very strong drag. I can cast 100 yards with a 2 oz pyramid sinker and 40 lb braided line.
- Very nice. Seems to be good quality and very very smooth. The reel is not sealed so you need to be a bit gentle when fishing in the surf.
- Best on planet.
- The reel is beautiful, sleek and smooth as butter.
- I combined this reel with my Shimano Tiralejo and I am pleased with balance and combined weight of the two. It’s a dream to cast for hours an I am using it to cast SP Minnows and Pencil Poppers at really great distances.
- It’s almost perfect. Wish it was sealed si I can get it wet.
- It’s sleek and smooth and should be badass for my upcoming surf fishing season.
Reviews from other countries
- Cracking reel with lovely line inlay
- Flawless reel
- It’s a Shimano, what else can I say? The reels are awesome.
Anglers consistently praise the Shimano Ultegra XTD for its exceptional smoothness and powerful drag system. One user highlighted its casting prowess, achieving impressive distances with a 2 oz pyramid sinker and 40 lb braided line.
The reel’s quality and smooth operation are frequently mentioned, with several reviewers describing it as incredibly smooth. Its sleek and beautiful design also garnered compliments.
Many anglers appreciate the Ultegra XTD’s balanced performance when paired with Shimano rods like the Tiralejo, making it a joy to cast for hours with various lures.
While the reel receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, some users express a desire for a sealed design for added protection in wet conditions. Despite this, the overall consensus points to a fantastic reel that’s ready to tackle any surf fishing challenge.
International reviews echo this sentiment, with anglers describing the Ultegra XTD as an excellent reel with smooth line lay. Ultimately, the Shimano Ultegra XTD lives up to the brand’s reputation, leaving anglers with the feeling that they’ve chosen a truly great reel.
The Shimano Ultegra XTD boasts a sleek, matte black design with subtle silver accents, conveying an impression of elegance and robustness. Its clean lines and high-quality craftsmanship exude functionality and reliability.
The special features of the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD are its light weight, its particularly high gear ratio of 5.3:1, and its high drag force. Due to the high gear ratio and low weight, it is also suitable for medium to heavy spin fishing over long distances.
The compact Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD, with its lightweight design, high gear ratio, and powerful drag, is an excellent choice for surf fishing enthusiasts who also enjoy medium to heavy spin fishing and appreciate versatility in a reel.
Pros and Cons of the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD Surf Fishing Reel
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD is a popular and highly-rated reel known for its light weight, high gear ratio, powerful drag, and smooth operation. However, it’s not saltwater resistant, so it needs to be rinsed thoroughly after use in saltwater.
Pros
- Reviewed by over 310 customers (4.4 of 5) on Amazon and Tackle Direct
- Third lightest model in our comparison
- Highest gear ratio of 5.3:1 in our comparison
- High drag force
- Compact surf fishing reel
- Very smooth
Cons
- Not saltwater resistant
The Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD boasts several impressive advantages. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 310 customer reviews on Amazon and Tackle Direct, it’s clearly a popular choice among anglers.
It stands out as the third lightest model in our comparison, making it exceptionally manageable. Furthermore, it offers the highest gear ratio (5.3:1) among the compared reels, ensuring rapid line retrieval.
Its high drag force provides ample power to handle strong fish, and its compact design enhances portability and ease of use. Anglers consistently praise its smooth operation, contributing to an enjoyable fishing experience.
However, it’s important to note that the Ultegra 5500 XTD is not saltwater resistant. This means extra care must be taken to rinse the reel thoroughly after each use in saltwater to prevent corrosion.
FAQ: The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD Surf Fishing Reel
What material is the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD made of?
The reel is made of XT-7 graphite.
Which rod can I combine the Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD with?
Daiwa Saltiga Surf: If you’re looking for a premium surfcasting rod, the Daiwa Saltiga Surf is an excellent option. It’s lightweight, powerful, and built to withstand harsh saltwater environments. Choose a model with a casting weight that complements your typical fishing setup.
Penn Prevail Surf: For a more budget-friendly option, the Penn Prevail Surf rods offer good performance and durability. They are available in various lengths and casting weights to suit different surf fishing conditions.
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