Shimano Ultegra CI4 XTB

Blikkiesvis

Sealiner
Hi Guys

I was wondering about the Ultegra CI4 XTB. There are two models the 5500 & 14000. I'm not familiar with long casting reels but this one looks amazing and if you can get the extra distance it promises then why not give it a try?

I have a couple of questions:

* Is it worth the R4 500 (New) price tag?
* Is this a real that you would recommend for surf fishing in SA?
* How does the 5500 & 14000 compare in size to each other and how do they compare in size to other Shimano reels?
* What rods would you pair it with?

Thanks in advance for your comments!

Cheers

Blik
 

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mrcricket

Member
Hi Blikkies
I wouldnt use any of the Ultegras for saltwater angling.The XTD and Im very sure the XTB too, has plastic gears on the inside and just do not last.Ive had quite a few guys sending theirs in to have a look why the spool stops oscillating.Turns out the little plastic gear that runs the worm gear simply cant handle decent fish.Well that has been my experience opening up these reels.
and before anyone crucifies me,this is my opinion and by no means the gospel.my 2 cents
 

Glassy

New member
mrcricket wrote:
Hi Blikkies
I wouldnt use any of the Ultegras for saltwater angling.The XTD and Im very sure the XTB too, has plastic gears on the inside and just do not last.Ive had quite a few guys sending theirs in to have a look why the spool stops oscillating.Turns out the little plastic gear that runs the worm gear simply cant handle decent fish.Well that has been my experience opening up these reels.
and before anyone crucifies me,this is my opinion and by no means the gospel.my 2 cents

I've read similar things in old posts here on Sealine. I'm not sure about current models but the older ultegras were supposed to be carp fishing reels. They were said to have made specific saltwater reels with better and stronger internals later down the line.
 

Blikkiesvis

Sealiner
Hi Guys!

Thanks for comments. Ja what I have read is that these were intended for carp fishing and it seems they use the "upgraded" saltwater models in the UK for sea fishing.

I'm always interested (nuuskierig) in other equipment and technologies. There isn't much on the net regarding the reels. That's why I turned you okes for a trusted opinion!

Guess you have to look at what else is available for the same price and immediately the Gosa comes to mind. Or even the new Saltist and of course the Slammer (please don't forget the Penn guys...).
 

saltysouti

New member
I owned one. It just could not handle surf fishing, After one fishing session and a few splashes the reel was never the same.. dissapointing because It was an awsome caster on a rugby field haha

Buy a spheros..
 

Dr Dropshot 123

New member
I wouldn't recommend the XTB as it has a twin drag on it and its a little cumbersome for Surf fishing. I have imported the new ci4 XTC Ultegra 14000 from the UK at R3800 , this is the closest reel to a bullseye XT that is out there. It has a 4,1:1 gear ratio and a wind in handle similar to the bullseye XT with a standard quick drag. I am using the reel for edibles and mid size inedibles like greys etc and so far the reel hasn't missed a beat, and casts like no other reel I have used. Got 3 spools loaded , one with 35lb gosen casting , one with 40lb Suffix 131, and one with 0.40 monofilament.

Its no Gosa or Spheros tho and needs to be handled with some care during use, however its more than 1/3rd lighter than both these reels and this makes a big difference in my opinion. The 14000 size reel weighs just 540 grams.
 
You can also look at the okuma trio rex salt. Cast really well, very light and have caught some good fish on mine with no problems. Got this ducky using it with 30lb jdb
 

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