REEL TALK: Shilton SR Series
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Time to read 2 min
You may have heard the old quip that when it comes to freshwater fishing, reels are nothing more than a line holder. While Phoenix anglers know that to be false (hello, canal carp!), the point remains that a good drag isn't necessarily required in many sweetwater applications. Not so in the salt. When casting in the ocean, a reel with top-quality drag and precision components will often be the difference between your new favorite phone background and getting skunked. If you're looking for a reel that can handle years of abuse and put the brakes on even the wildest runs, look no further than the Shilton SR series.
Why the Shilton SR is our favorite salt reel
If you're an angler looking to make an investment in a quality saltwater reel, there are two questions you should be asking yourself: will this reel perform? and will it last? Shilton's SR lineup delivers on both counts.
First, the performance. In this new iteration of reels, Shilton has increased the diameter of the drag, allowing the system to engage quickly and deliver impressive stopping power. Whether you're trying to steer a permit away from mangroves or get a fish boatside before the sharks show up, the SR drag system gives you a huge leg up. Besides a diameter increase, they've also added an extra plunger to the system. This creates a smoother, consistent feed of line (no jerking or uneven line release) when the drag is engaged.
Of course, if you're paying top dollar, you should be looking for a reel that can handle years of saltwater exposure. Shilton constructs SR reels with 6082 T6 aluminum, which is built to withstand salt corrosion. The added plungers more evenly distribute friction across the drag components, which significantly increases the working life of the drag system.
Enough with the specs. How well does it fish?
From redfish to roosters, SR reels feel right at home in a variety of saltwater applications. When a fish breaks your line in the salt, it's not actually because the drag wasn't strong enough. Instead, it's typically due to sudden, jerky stops that easily snap tippet. The SR action is buttery smooth, which is not only a pleasure to fish with, but it's also the most effective at stopping a running fish without popping the line.
Shilton's SR lineup comes in a variety of sizes to match whatever you're targeting. Whether you're pursuing bones on light tackle or chasing monster tarpon, their 8 through 12 weight options will pair perfectly with your favorite saltwater rod and provide the ideal amount of power and backing.
Stat Cast
- 8, 9, 10, and 12 weight options available
- 6082 T6 Aluminum
- Anodized finish
- Click drag knob for easy setting
- Exposed palming rim for additional hand control
"If you're looking for a reel that can handle years of abuse and put the brakes on even the wildest runs, look no further than the Shilton SR series."
The final line
Getting the proper gear for a saltwater trip is a big investment. Do yourself a favor and invest in a reel that's going to be with you (and hopefully some memorable fish) for the long haul.
Interested in a test ride? Stop by the shop any time to get your hands on our full selection of premium rods.
