The 2022 Shimano Bantam A reel: a modern evolution of a classic? This review delves into the performance and features of Shimano's latest offering, a reel boasting a legacy forged in collaboration with legendary angler Lou Childre. Building upon the iconic Bantam's reputation for strength and durability, the 2022 model promises a robust and versatile fishing experience capable of handling the demands of modern bass fishing techniques. We'll examine its construction, casting capabilities, and compare it to competitors like the Daiwa Zillion and Lew's Pro Ti.This in-depth look will explore the reel's Hagane body, its performance with various lures and techniques, and ultimately assess whether its impressive build and casting ability outweigh a significant – albeit minor – design flaw. We'll consider whether the potential for user discomfort compromises the overall experience and provide insights to help you decide if the 2022 Shimano Bantam A is the right reel for your needs and fishing style.
Pros And Cons
- Solid workhorse
- Built like a tank
- Solid core body (Hagane body)
- Perfect blend of strength and castability
- Perfect for pitching jigs and bombing long casts
- Amazing for pitching baits
- About an ounce heavier than most low-profile reels in its price range
- A small ridge on the spool rubs against the thumb during casting, potentially causing blisters.
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Shimano Bantam: A Legacy of Excellence
The Shimano Bantam reel boasts a rich history, deeply intertwined with the legendary Lou Childre. In the 1970s, Childre collaborated with Shimano, resulting in the iconic BB1 reel, a testament to their combined expertise. This partnership laid the groundwork for the Bantam's enduring reputation.
Shimano's subsequent research, including a year-long study of American bass fishing techniques, directly influenced the design of the original Bantam. This commitment to understanding angler needs cemented the reel's position as a flagship product.
The new 2022 Bantam builds upon this legacy, promising a modern evolution of a classic design. It represents a balance of strength and performance, aimed at the demanding requirements of today's bass anglers.
Performance and Features of the 2022 Bantam
The 2022 Shimano Bantam A is a robust reel, built with a solid one-piece aluminum body. Shimano refers to this as Hagane construction, highlighting its strength and durability. This translates into exceptional performance under pressure.
Its castability is noteworthy, capable of both delicate pitching and powerful long casts. I found it particularly effective with light jigs and Carolina rigs, delivering accurate casts consistently.
While slightly heavier than some competitors, the overall build quality justifies this added weight. This reel is clearly built to endure years of rigorous use in the harshest fishing conditions.
Comparison with Other High-End Reels
The Shimano Bantam A competes directly with other top-tier reels in its price range, such as the Daiwa Zillion and the Lew's Pro Ti. Each offers unique features and strengths, appealing to different preferences.
The Daiwa Zillion is a personal favorite for its smooth performance and versatile capabilities. The Lew's Pro Ti also shines in its precision and ease of use, particularly with lighter lures.
The choice between these reels depends on individual needs and casting styles. Each option provides exceptional performance in different areas of bass fishing.
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Shimano Bantam A is a premium reel offering remarkable strength and versatility. Its solid construction, smooth operation, and excellent casting performance make it a strong contender in its class. However, a design flaw on the spool caused discomfort and blisters for this reviewer.
This minor design issue significantly impacts the overall user experience, making it less ideal for extended use. This is a crucial consideration to factor into your purchase decision.
While the reel's build and performance are impressive, the potential for discomfort warrants careful consideration before purchasing. Assess your hand size and casting style before investing in the 2022 Shimano Bantam A.