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**Notice: Shimano has released a new version of the Shimano Nasci reel. Click here for availability
The Shimano Nasci spinning reel has quickly become one of the most popular reels in Shimano’s range. The reason for this is that it provides many of Shimano’s high-end features at a very affordable price.
So what exactly do you get with the Shimano Nasci spinning reel?
In this article, I have provided a comprehensive overview of the Nasci so you can make an informed decision on whether you think this is the right reel for you.
I will also add that I personally own and use a Nasci reel (I have the 4000XGFB model), so I will also give you my view as a regular user as well.
What high-end features does the Shimano Nasci have?
If you have been looking at other Shimano spinning reels such as the Stradic Ci4+ or Stella, admiring the impressive range of features they have, but bulking a bit at the price, then you will be happy to hear that you get a lot of the same high-end features on the Nasci range.
If you are looking at upgrading your reel from an entry-level model, then you will quickly see the improvement in performance that the Shimano Nasci provides.
It also has that feel of quality about it, so you quickly learn to trust the reel when spinning lures and soft plastics.
Here is a quick rundown of some of the main features of the Nasci reel:
- Hagane gear
- Coreprotect
- X-ship
- G Free Body
- AR-C Spool
- Varispeed 2
- Front drag
A lot of these technologies are found on some of Shimano’s more expensive ranges, such as the Stradic, Ultegra, and Stella reels.
This is clearly evident as soon as you start fishing with a Shimano Nasci.
It is a very responsive reel, that installs confidence with the all-round performance it provides.
What sizes does the Shamino Nasci come in?
The Nasci will suit anything from the most delicate freshwater light spinning, through to the heavier boat jigging. The following sizes are available for the Shimano Nasci:
- NAS1000FB
- NAS2500FB
- NASC3000HGFB
- NAS4000XGFB
- NASC5000XGFB
Reel specifications
Model: NAS1000FB
Gear Ratio: 5.0:1
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Mono: 2/270, 4/140, 6/110
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Braid: 10/95, 15/85 20/65
Line Retrieve Per Crank: 26in / 66cm
Max Drag: 7lb / 3kg
Weight: 7.6oz / 215g
Model: 2500FB
Ratio: 5.0:1
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Mono: 6/200, 8/140, 10/120
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Braid: 10/150, 15/145, 30/100
Line Retrieve Per Crank: 29in / 73cm
Max Drag: 20lb / 9kg
Weight: 8.8oz / 250g
Model: C3000HGFB
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Mono: 6/230, 8/170, 10/140
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Braid: 10/200, 20/140, 40/105
Line Retrieve Per Crank: 36in / 91cm
Max Drag: 20lb / 9kg
Weight: 8.8oz / 250g
Model: 4000XGFB
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Mono: 8/240, 10/200, 12/160
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Braid: 15/230, 20/205, 50/120
Line Retrieve Per Crank: 39in / 99cm
Max Drag: 24lb / 11kg
Weight: 10.4oz / 295g
Model: C5000XGFB
Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Mono: 10/240, 12/195, 14/165
Line Capacity – #Test/Yd – Braid: 20/220, 30/200, 40/160
Line Retrieve Per Crank: 41in / 104cm
Max Drag: 24lb / 11kg
Weight: 10.6oz / 300g
Points to note:
Here are a couple of important facts about the Shimano Nasci that will be handy for you to know before you make your final purchase decision.
The first is that the Nasci doesn’t have an anti-reverse lever.
This is common on a lot of the higher grade Shimano spinning reels now, as they look for ways to reduce any extra weight while being able to include all of the other features they have on reels like the Nasci.
As I previously mentioned in one of my other Shimano spinning reel articles, I was used to having an anti-reverse lever on all previous reels I owned, and when I purchased my Stradic Ci4+ FB it was the first spinning reel I had used that did not have this feature.
But it didn’t take long to get used to it, and now I don’t miss it at all.
So for me, it would certainly not be a game-changer, but it is definitely worth letting you know about this so you can make your own decision.
The next thing you should know about is that the 2500 and 3000 models have the same frame size, with the 3000 just having a deeper spool so it can accommodate more line.
So this could also be a determining factor for you if you are trying to decide what size to get.
Reel performance
The Shimano Nasci spinning reel is extremely well made. It is a very robust reel, but this doesn’t mean it is built like a tank.
It is in fact, very light and is perfect for spinning lures for long periods of time. Pair the Nasci with a light spinning rod, and you will have a great combination that will allow you to throw lures for a long time without feeling the fatigue that a heavier reel can produce.
The Nasci is also extremely smooth to use, and every moving part works in harmony to produce a very smooth and efficient experience.
The first time you hook into a fish and it goes screaming off, you will understand just how well this reel performs.
Should you buy the Shimano Nasci Spinning Reel?
You really are getting a lot of reel for your money with the Nasci. If you want high-end technology that is used in many of Shimano’s higher-end reels, at a very affordable price then I think purchasing the Nasci is a no-brainer.
The reel is designed to perform to the highest level and is also built to last. The Shimano Nasci gets a massive thumbs up from me, this is one reel I am very glad I own and have had a lot of really good usage from it so far.
