A true superstar of the Shimano threadline lineup, the Stradic series has been given a complete makeover.The Stradic FI makes use of Shimano's Paladin Gear Durability Enhancement for increased operating life, the Propulsion Line Management System that permits greater casting distance with less effort, while Aerowrap II lays the line neatly on the spool without any dips or hills. It utilises Shimano's SR Concept with an SR-3D gear and SR One Piece Bail Wire.The sideplate and rotor are graphite, the body aluminium, the handle machined aluminium with a direct drive handle that screws directly into the main gear, and is finished off with Septon grips.Five SA-RB and one roller bearing enhance the smooth performance, as does Fluidrive II, Dyna-balance and Super Stopper II.

The waterproof drag on all models can really put the heat on a big fish, with even the tiny 1000FI being able to shovel on seven pounds of stopping power and the 8000FI an incredible 29 pounds.To round out this beautifully engineered reel range, you also get a spare aluminium spool.