Skip to main content

Best Baitcasters 2018: Shimano Curado 200K

Best Baitcasters 2018: Shimano Curado 200K
This new Curado doesn't take a big slice out of the price tag of the original Curados, but it does include amazing technology, and is intrinsically durable, as any Shimano owner knows.

This new Curado doesn't take a big slice out of the price tag of the original Curados, but it does include amazing technology, and is intrinsically durable, as any Shimano owner knows.

As part of Game & Fish's series of reviews of the best baitcasters 2018, we look at the Shimano Curado 200K.

By Pete Robbins

For well over two decades, the Curado has been the stalwart of tournament anglers everywhere and the anchor of the Shimano baitcasting lineup.

This newest version is $179.99, no more than reels of a decade ago, and it features technological advantages previously available only in the brand's highest-end showpieces.

The Curado is available in both left- and right-hand retrieve, and in three different gear ratios, all of which guarantees you'll see both tournament pros and weekend anglers headed out in the early morning with an arsenal of nothing but Curado K's.

Best Baitcasters 2018 Series

New baitcasting reels reviewed by Game & Fish

Click Here: More articles on Fishing Reels from G&F

What distinguishes it?

The folks at Shimano had a tough task improving on past iterations of this industry standard. However, by integrating the SVS Infinity Braking System, they've made it even more capable of throwing light lures than its predecessors. An added longer handle offers more power when cranking big baits or taming unruly fish in the slop.

High-end features previously found only in more expensive reels?

Shimano's X-Ship technology and MicroModule gearing provide exceptionally precise alignment among all of the reel's parts. This means whether you're winching on a 10-pound bass or a boss catfish that swallowed your spinnerbait, it won't give way.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Gear Ratio 6.2:1, 7.4:1, 8.5:1
  • Line Capacity  110 yds / 14 lbs
  • Weight   7.6 oz
  • Bearings 6+1
  • Price   $179.99

HIGH-END FEATURES

  • SVS braking system
  • MicroModule gearing
  • Downsized slightly over previous models
  • Freshwater and saltwater ready

GET THE NEWSLETTER Join the List and Never Miss a Thing.

Recommended Articles

Recent Videos

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Destinations

First Turkey Ever: Perfect Conditions Make for a Short Hunt

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Fishing

Bass Crash Course: Bass Froggin' Game Plan

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Videos

What to Know Before Going Off-Road

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Learn

Off-Road Safety Tips and Techniques

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Gear

The Right Tires for Off-Roading

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Learn

Bass Crash Course: Shallow-Water Power Lures

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Destinations

Minnesota Double Down: First Visit to New Farm Goes Perfectly

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Fishing

Bass Crash Course: Bass Fishing in the Wind

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Hunting

She Kills The Biggest Bird of the Year

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Fishing

Bass Crash Course: Unlock the Patterns Squarebill Crankbaits

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Learn

Tips for Cooking Over an Open Fire

With the right materials and know-how, you can construct a reliable blaze for any gathering. Follow these tips to build ...
Videos

How to Build the Perfect Campfire

Game & Fish Magazine Covers Print and Tablet Versions

GET THE MAGAZINE Subscribe & Save

Digital Now Included!

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Give a Gift   |   Subscriber Services

PREVIEW THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

Buy Digital Single Issues

Magazine App Logo

Don't miss an issue.
Buy single digital issue for your phone or tablet.

Buy Single Digital Issue on the Game & Fish App

Other Magazines

See All Other Magazines

Special Interest Magazines

See All Special Interest Magazines

GET THE NEWSLETTER Join the List and Never Miss a Thing.

Get the top Game & Fish stories delivered right to your inbox every week.

Phone Icon

Get Digital Access.

All Game & Fish subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets.

To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine.

Get Digital Access

Not a Subscriber?
Subscribe Now

Enjoying What You're Reading?

Get a Full Year
of Guns & Ammo
& Digital Access.

Offer only for new subscribers.

Subscribe Now