Chris Walton 
Baitcasting reels are critical for casting in the harshest of conditions. The market overwhelmed with brands has made the choice harder for anglers. Anglers in this quest to find a best-in-class reel may have come across this brand — Shimano.
Shimano’s Curado is a lineup of top-performing reels that come at an incredible price tag for any offshore outing. As a brand of high repute, the Curado series has the right elements that are well-received in the angler community. In this review, we take you through various facets of Curado’s K Baitcaster Reel and shine a light on why it is considered the staple for many anglers worldwide.
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Shimano Curado 201 K Baitcaster Reel: Review
The Shimano Curado K has amassed heaps of praise from the angler community. Released only last year, this baitcaster reel has drawn positive feedback and plucked fish effortlessly from both fresh and saltwater. The affordable baitcaster reel has several selling points, and you’ll be learning all of them in the following sections.
Design
The Curado K has comparatively a lighter body than its predecessors and some of the other reels in the industry. The lightweight contour of the reel assists in maneuvering in the harshest of conditions with some support from the large, ergonomic handle featured on the reel.
Equipped with the Hagane aluminum frame, there is unparalleled support to anglers in situations of unforeseen impacts and when cutting the flex while reeling. The aluminum-clad frame provides great resistance and a significant reduction in weight over other materials.
All in all, the ergonomic design of the reel contributes to the seamless session of fishing. Moreover, the availability of this reel in right and left-handed actions has made this gear an option for everyone to consider.
Features of Shimano Curado 201K Baitcaster Reel
The reel is equipped with the X-Ship system that provides great resilience when holding the reel, and more so in situations where the fish wrangles when caught. The X-Ship mechanism maintains the main gear and the pinion alignment simultaneously to minimize friction, thus allowing the improved lifetime of the reel.
The MicroModule gearing system is a flagship-only feature that is now enforced into this wholesome reel package. This particular feature comes in nifty for hassle-free use of the reel that works according to your preference. The gear boasts precise teeth in the solid-brass gearing, which work towards enhancing the feel and operation of the reel. More likely found only in the high-end models, this feature included in this budget-friendly model adds to the seamless experience while fishing.
Another breakthrough feature of the reel is the Six Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearings with a coating that prevents them from rust and corrosion. Furthermore, the stainless-steel coating also guards the bearing against dust and grime build-up. This advanced protection system has the capability of improving the longevity of the reel.
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The Anti-Reverse Roller Bearing sports a one-way design that prevents the reel from further back rolling. Also, the super stopper mechanism assists in on-the-spot, powerful hook-setting.
The most significant feature of the Curado K reel is the SVS Infinity Brake System. This brake mechanism utilizes the weight to give you complete power whilst fishing. The brake system facilitates precise control of the spool speed when using lighter lures. The reel features an adjustable dial that allows anglers to control the speed and accuracy of the fly.
The 3D Spool System sets the standard high for an affordable model like the Curdado Series. The 3D spool gives anglers the smoothest casting and retrieving experience. For a glitch-free casting session, the S3D system also chops down the vibration level and makes fishing smoother than ever it was.
Super Free Spool has the right kind of options required to cast the lures. It reduces the excessive whipping to pluck fish from the farthest distance. The onus of making a strong cast is on you, while the rest is done by the system — the spool holds up the heavy lures and provides great resistance when casting in mild winds.
Gear ratios are on the higher side in this reel. This baitcaster reel comes with multiple gear ratios — 6.2:1, 7.4:1, and 8.5:1; all of which are built to suit different kinds of anglers. In addition to the multiple gear ratios, this also features a 36-inch retrieval per crank on the handle that adds to the efficiency of this all-around baitcaster reel.
Pros and Cons of the Shimano Curado K Baitcaster Reel
Shimano’s Curado Baitcaster Reel has a smooth and seamless functionality that brings out the best in anglers in their fishing expedition. The reel is a drastic improvement from its predecessors, but there are flaws that need to be discussed. Following is a quick run-through of Curado K’s pros and cons:
The Curado K Baitcaster Reel has the same effectiveness as any high-end Shimano model. Despite the few flaws, the reel still remains the favorite among most anglers at this price point. The growing popularity of this reel is such that it may soon run out of stock; however, we have jotted down a few of the best alternatives that you want to pay attention to.
Alternatives to the Shimano Curado 201 K Baitcaster Reel
1. Shimano Chronarch G SW Baitcasting Reel
Shimano’s mid-range offering — the Chronarch G SW Baitcast Reel — brings an unparalleled performance. This baitcasting reel is supplied with 8+1 ball bearings and does incredibly well in preventing line breakages when using light tackle. Much like the Curado K, this reel also uses the S3D technology to reduce vibration levels for silent and smoother casts.
Equipped with the SVS Infinity Braking system, the reel provides precision adjustments on the fly. The magnesium hagane body assists in cutting the flex and fighting the fish. This is the ideal fishing reel to use in both saltwater and freshwater.
The Chronarch G SW Baitcast reel is Shimano’s flagship model that thrives on innovation and is the best alternative to the Curado K.
2. Shimano Curado MGL 70 K Baitcast Reel
Shimano’s list of products with modern technology is endless and with the MGL 70 K, the brand takes the game ahead. The baitcast reel has similar characteristics to the Curado K. Some of the USPs of this reel: Micro Module Gear system that works for smoother retrievers.
While the Super Free design reduces the friction on the spool shaft for effortless casting. Similar to the Curado K, the X-Ship technology brings more stability for long-lasting gear and power to your casting. Also, the Cross Carbon Drag facilitates the power required to stop the giant fish.
Overall, the Curada MGL 70 K is a tough candidate that falls under the same price category as the Curado K. The same Hagane body brings more rigidity and durability for smooth fishing performance.
Verdict
The Shimano Curado 201 K is the smoothest reel available on the market. This comprehensive review speaks about the features of the reel, along with alternatives.
If the search for the best inexpensive reel has left you exhausted, then this is a wholesome product that brings a ton of features along. Hope you found the review informative. If you have questions about this light and small baitcasting reel, write to us in the comments section, and we’ll get back soon.
FAQs
What is the line capacity of the Shimano Curado 201 K?
The Shimano Curado K comes with a whopping line-holding capacity. This baitcasting reel comes with 110 yards of lining capacity of 14 pounds of line. The line capacity prevents damage or cracks to the reel.
How durable is the Curado 201 K when used for saltwater fishing?
The Curado K specially caters to the needs of anglers seeking the finest performance in saltwater conditions, thus preventing rust and corrosion. The inclusion of innovations like X-Ship has a coating system coupled with stainless steel bearings and an aluminum frame that makes the reel light and durable for use in saltwater conditions.
