Testing Times: Shimano Twin Power TP5000SW-A Fixed-Spool Reel - 14/06/2010
Roger Mortimore takes a close look at Shimano’s superb Twin Power fixed-spool reel – the perfect tool for the dedicated lure angler.
The TP5000SW-A is a seriously tough reel specially built for serious saltwater anglers seeking all types of fish – from shore bass to offshore pollack. It’s packed with new features, and Shimano’s SW technology, previously exclusive to the flagship Stella range, is now included in the Twin Power family. The huge knob on the handle allows you to maintain a good grip even in cold, wet weather so you can take control of hard-fighting fish in tough conditions. It also drives a 6.2:1 gear ratio to work lures fast, or retrieve your gear very quickly for a recast. Plus you’ll notice as you turn the handle how silky smooth it is – this is due to it having no less than 10 S-ARB bearings.
The reel’s many other features include a waterproof drag sealed with rubber washers, specially coated high-durability gears, a one-piece bail arm and AR-C spools. For the live test I matched the TP5000 with Shimano’s 2.7m SpeedMaster Sea Bass rod, which I tested last month. This pairing made for a perfectly balanced outfit and was a joy to use. The line lay is superb, as you’d expect with a reel of this quality, and the angled spool lip lets line flow effortlessly off the spool during a cast. Furthermore, the drag is one of the smoothest I’ve come across and gives line without snatching – plus it’s waterproof so it doesn’t matter if it gets dunked.
Having said that, though, I found the gear ratio to be a little too fast sometimes, as it made it difficult to turn the handle very slowly to work lures precisely. But then the fast retrieve can be a bonus if you need to skip your lure or bait back quickly. The Twin Power is a superb reel in every aspect. It may be expensive but you get what you pay for and it will last you a lifetime!
Information
Shimano Twin Power TP5000SW-A Reel
- Bearings: 10 S-ARB bearings
- Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
- Spool Capacity: 175 yards of 12lb mono
- RRP: £529.99
Roger's Ratings
- Appearance: 10
- Casting: 10
- Fishing: 10
- Value for Money: 10
- Contact: Shimano UK Ltd on 01386 425826
- Website: www.shimano.com
