Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML Review
Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML in a Field Test

I’ve owned the Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML for a while now. I bought it because its super short transport length means I can take it anywhere. It also has an extended length of 2.70m, which is suitable for many fishing methods.
Dive into my detailed review and find out how this fishing rod performs in practice when spin fishing.
Design and Build Quality
The Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML is a three-piece rod. The bottom part of the cork handle screws on, and the top section (tip) slides in and out for a telescoping design.
Fully extended, the rod measures 2.70 meters. The tip section is the longest, measuring 40cm when collapsed – that’s also the overall transport length of the rod. The connection between the middle and tip sections is very secure.
Broken down, the rod fits comfortably in the 45cm carrying case. There’s even enough room to store a reel attached to the rod! I was able to just barely zip up the case with my Shimano Nasci 4000 XG mounted.
The rod has 8 guides that ensure even distribution of load when fighting a fish. The blank is transparent in the lower half, revealing the gray, spiral-wound carbon fiber mats. The upper half of the blank is black.
The reel seat is sturdy and provides a secure hold for the reel. Overall, the design has a very sleek and modern look, highlighting the high-quality construction of this fishing rod.

Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML: On-The-Water Test
I scoped out a spot between two groynes on a river to target some perch. I paired the Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML with a Shimano Sedona 2500 FJ reel – a solid combo for this type of fishing. Here’s what I tied on:
- Westin Crecraw: This 2.5-inch crawfish imitation in a Junebug color with anise scent was rigged on a 1/8-ounce jig head.
- Quantum B-ASS: A 5-inch swimbait with a squid flavor, rigged on a 1/4-ounce jig head.

Casting to those tight spots between the groynes was a breeze with this rod. The moderate-fast action provided enough backbone to react quickly to bites.
The setup was incredibly lightweight and comfortable. The rod weighs just 5.3 ounces, and paired with my 8.5-ounce Shimano Sedona 2500 FJ, I could cast for hours without fatigue.
When casting, only the tip section of the rod flexes, allowing for pinpoint accuracy. Under heavier loads, the bend extends to about the middle of the blank. I can attest to this firsthand, as I once landed a 1.1-pound gilthead seabream on this rod while float fishing in the Aegean Sea!

In the picture, you can see (from left to right): one gilthead seabream, three striped seabream, and one red sea rabbitfish. Even though these saltwater fish fight much harder than freshwater species, the rod held up exceptionally well. It wasn’t even close to being pushed to its limits.
Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML: Specs, Features, and Best Uses
This rod is packed with Shimano’s latest tech:
- Nanosheet Technology
- Shimano DPS Reel Seat
- Shimano Hardlite Guides
Nanosheet Technology: This cutting-edge material allows Shimano to craft blanks that are lighter and stronger than ever before.
The STC Mini Tele 270ML’s blank is incredibly tough yet sensitive thanks to Nanosheet technology. This means you’ll feel even the most subtle bites while having plenty of power to handle larger fish.
Shimano DPS Reel Seat: The DPS reel seat provides a secure and comfortable hold for your reel. Its ergonomic design fits perfectly in your hand, giving you complete control and allowing you to focus on fishing.
Shimano Hardlite Guides: These lightweight guides are built to last. They minimize line friction for longer, more accurate casts and can withstand heavy use.
I’ve included an Amazon link for the 2.10m version right here—it’s even more powerful with a 10-30g casting weight, perfect for heavier lures! Grab one if you’re interested!
187,15 $
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Last updated on: 13/02/2025 9:38 PMBuy now*
Field test rating: | 5 stars |
Length: | 2.1 m |
Lure weight: | 10-30 g |
Collapsed length: | 35 cm |
Weight: | 103 g |
Material: | Carbon fiber |
This rod’s light weight and moderate-fast action make it a great choice for spin fishing and float fishing. It can even handle light bottom fishing rigs. However, the lure weight range (7-21g / 1/4 – 3/4 ounce) does limit its applications somewhat.
Here’s what I recommend it for:
- Freshwater Spin Fishing: This rod excels at targeting species like perch, trout, and panfish.
- Light Float Fishing: Present baits with finesse for species like crappie and bluegill.
- Basic Bottom Fishing: A good option for fishing with worms, small baitfish, or prepared baits.
While you could land a surprise pike on this rod, it’s not ideal for targeting larger pike or walleye. Those species often require heavier lures and presentations that exceed this rod’s capabilities.
Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML: Weighing the Pros and Cons
What I Loved:
- Ultra-Portable: With a collapsed length of just 15.7 inches, this rod is incredibly easy to travel with.
- Convenient Travel Case: The included 17.7-inch case provides excellent protection.
- Featherlight: Weighing in at just 5.3 ounces, you can cast all day without fatigue.
- Surprisingly Strong: The blank has plenty of backbone for its size.
- Top-Notch Travel Rod: One of the best travel spinning rods I’ve used.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Lure Weight: I wish there was a heavier version for larger lures and bigger fish.
The Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML is a travel rod that truly impressed me with its compact size and light weight. It’s perfect for tossing in your suitcase or backpack, and the included case keeps it safe on the go. Despite its small size, it’s surprisingly strong and can handle decent-sized fish.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the only downside is the limited lure weight. A heavier version would be awesome for targeting larger species or using bigger baits.
Final Verdict
The Shimano STC Mini Tele 270ML is a fantastic travel rod for anglers who value portability and versatility. Its short pack-down size and light weight make it the perfect travel companion.
Whether you’re spin fishing for perch and trout, float fishing for panfish, or doing some light bottom fishing, this rod performs admirably.
While the limited lure weight is a minor drawback, it’s still an outstanding choice for anglers seeking a compact and reliable travel rod. I give it a solid 5 stars!