Shimano Stella STL-SW D Spinning Reel

The second improvement is the shape of the bobbin wound into the spool. By reviewing the turn angle of the worm shaft, the bulges that tend to occur at both the top and bottom ends of the spool are replaced with a flatter spool shape, reducing drag and line release resistance, and minimising trouble.

The third feature is a 2-speed oscillation system that changes the thread winding pitch as the spool moves back and forth. When the line is released from the spool ring side to the skirt side (downward), the finely wound line reduces release resistance and increases flight distance. In the opposite direction, the coarsely wound line prevents the line from digging in at high drag. This well-thought-out mechanism for the SW model further improves line release performance and eliminates trouble.

INFINITYXROSS

Advances in gear tooth design and manufacturing technology have expanded the contact area between the drive gear and pinion gear with INFINITYXROSS. By distributing the load on the gear teeth, damage caused by concentration of damage is prevented and durability is improved. The NEW Stella SW has increased this tooth width by approximately 1.3 times compared to the previous model. It is now possible to maintain a smooth gear feeling even when winding with a higher load.

The ANTI-TWIST FIN mechanism features flexible fins placed near the line roller section to actively suppress line slack. By using an elastic material for the fins, damage caused when the knot part is rolled up is also prevented. This innovative fin ensures the line stays securely on the spool, preventing frustrating tangles and ensuring it winds up tightly under tension. This feature is especially useful for fishing techniques prone to line slack, such as squid jigging.

Additionally, it prevents the line from getting caught inside the spool or winding abnormally, a common frustration for anglers using spinning reels. With this mechanism, fishing becomes much more stress-free and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the catch.

The AR-C spool features a specially designed spool ring that creates a streamlining effect, significantly reducing line troubles and enhancing long-distance casting performance. The 25 Stella SW is equipped with a new AR-C shape that improves the spool ring collar, making it less likely for the line to ride on it and reducing line straddling on the spool, which can cause line troubles.

In addition, during saltwater fishing, the spool ring is subjected to considerable stress under harsh conditions. To address this, the surface of the spool ring is coated with a strong abrasion-resistant barrier, further improving durability. This coating also reduces damage to the line, ensuring the surface remains smooth and scratch-resistant for a longer period of time.

The intrusion of seawater is a significant threat in saltwater fishing, as it can corrode metal parts and drastically reduce the reel's performance. To combat this, the Stella SW is equipped with X-SHIELD and X-PROTECT technologies, which provide comprehensive protection against water intrusion.

X-SHIELD features seals throughout the reel, including the body, drag knob, and line roller, effectively blocking all potential water entry points. Notably, the body and stopper have achieved an IPX8 rating, a high standard for waterproof performance, ensuring exceptional reliability and durability even in the harshest SW fishing conditions.

X-PROTECT enhances this protection by incorporating a newly reviewed waterproof structure that not only maintains waterproof performance but also achieves lighter rotation. This innovative design balances the seemingly contradictory elements of high waterproof performance and smooth, silky rotation, allowing anglers to enjoy a superior fishing experience without compromising on durability.