■ XX TOUGH DRAG
A New Level of Drag Durability
The drag components responsible for controlling blistering runs combine metal parts with wear-resistant carbon washers developed exclusively for the STELLA SW. In addition to the drag washers positioned in the lower section of the previous design, the newly engineered upper spool structure now accommodates oversized washers with approximately four times the surface area of those used in the previous model.
This evolution delivers significantly improved drag durability.
Working together with the upgraded drag structure, the Heat Sink Drag also reduces heat-related drag-force loss by approximately 30% compared with the previous model. On sizes 18000 and above, rigorous durability testing designed to simulate fights with Pacific bluefin tuna demonstrated more than ten times the durability of the previous generation. Maximum drag force has also been increased to 30 kg, or 27 kg on the 30000 model.
Smooth enough to follow every powerful surge, yet strong enough to control a fish through overwhelming braking force, this drag combines flexibility, strength, and unwavering durability—the very qualities that define the STELLA SW.
Sizes 5000–8000 are equipped with X TOUGH DRAG.
■ INFINITYLOOP
An Oscillation System Engineered Specifically for SW Applications
INFINITYLOOP lays line onto the spool in an exceptionally precise and orderly pattern, improving casting distance, casting feel, and drag smoothness.
Every element has been optimized for the demands of SW fishing, including a line-lay pitch specifically calibrated for SW models, an improved winding profile as the line enters the spool, and a two-speed oscillation system that changes pitch depending on the direction of spool travel. Together, these technologies further enhance line-release performance while reducing the risk of line trouble.
The benefits extend beyond stable casting feel and increased distance. INFINITYLOOP also provides smoother line release during vertical jigging. Even under high-load conditions involving complex currents or heavy metal jigs, the system minimizes line digging and snagging, allowing the jig to descend quickly to the target depth.
After the strike, it maintains stable drag pressure with fewer fluctuations in line tension, helping anglers control the powerful runs of trophy-class fish.
■ INFINITYXROSS
Greater Gear Strength and Durability at the Heart of the STELLA SW
Advancements in gear-tooth design and manufacturing have enabled INFINITYXROSS to increase the contact area between the drive gear and pinion gear.
By distributing pressure more evenly across the gear teeth, the system prevents damage caused by concentrated loads and improves overall durability. On the new STELLA SW, gear-tooth width has been increased to approximately 1.3 times that of the previous model.
This allows the reel to maintain a smooth and refined gear feel even during high-load retrieves.
■ ANTI-TWIST FIN
Reduces Frustrating Line Trouble
Positioned close to the line roller, the ANTI-TWIST FIN controls line slack and reduces the possibility of line dropping beneath the spool skirt.
The fin is made from a flexible material that also helps prevent damage when knots pass through the line roller area.
A conventional Fin B, which maintains additional clearance, is also included.
■ AR-C SPOOL
The specially shaped spool lip of the AR-C SPOOL controls line flow, helping reduce line trouble while improving casting distance.
The 25 STELLA SW features a redesigned AR-C spool-ring collar with a profile that makes it more difficult for line to catch on the collar. This reduces line crossover onto the spool, one of the potential causes of line trouble.
During demanding SW fishing, the spool ring can be subjected to far greater stress than expected. Its surface is treated with highly abrasion-resistant Barrier Coat, further improving durability while reducing damage to the line. The treatment also helps the ring maintain a smooth, scratch-resistant surface for longer.
If the ring surface is damaged, the ring itself can be replaced through Shimano After-Sales Service.
■ X PROTECT & X SHIELD
Formidable Waterproof Protection
Saltwater intrusion is one of the greatest threats in SW fishing. Once seawater enters a reel, it can corrode internal metal components and significantly reduce the reel’s original performance.
The STELLA SW uses seals throughout the body, drag knob, line roller, and other critical areas to block potential water-entry routes. The body and anti-reverse section achieve an IPX8 waterproof rating, providing exceptional reliability and durability in severe SW fishing conditions.
The waterproof structure has also been redesigned to maintain its high level of protection while enabling even lighter rotational performance. This achieves two qualities that are normally difficult to combine: formidable waterproofing and silky-smooth rotation.
The handle knob also incorporates a waterproof structure.
■ Newly Designed Drag Knob for Improved Control
Every detail of the STELLA SW has been refined to enhance operability. On applicable models, the drag knob is approximately 25% larger in diameter.
The enlarged design makes the knob easier to grip during split-second adjustments while also providing greater control for precise drag tuning. When a powerful fish strikes, it gives anglers a distinct advantage when rapidly tightening or loosening the drag.
Applies to sizes 8000 and above.
■ Pushing the Limits of Size: Large-Capacity STELLA SW Models
The STELLA SW is engineered for serious battles with truly massive fish, with uncompromising strength built into every detail.
On sizes 18000 and above, reel-body strength has been improved by approximately 25% compared with the previous model. These larger sizes also feature the newly developed XX TOUGH DRAG, which preserves the smooth drag response for which the STELLA SW is known while delivering more than ten times the durability of the previous generation.
When line is pulled from the reel at high speed under heavy drag pressure, heat builds within the drag system and can cause drag force to decrease. The combined heat-dissipation performance of XX TOUGH DRAG and Heat Sink Drag substantially suppresses this loss of initial drag force, achieving an improvement of more than 30% over the previous model and delivering class-leading heat resistance.*
Comprehensively redesigned, the STELLA SW delivers the strength and reliability demanded by anglers who challenge the world’s largest saltwater gamefish.
Based on Shimano comparative testing.
SPEC:
- Gear Ratio: 6.2; Maximum Drag Force: 25.0 kg; Weight: 685 g
- Spool Diameter/Stroke: 2.7/0.9 inches (68.6/22 mm)
- Spool capacity: Nylon (No.-m): 10-195, 12-155, 14-140 / PE (No.-m): 5-360, 6-300, 8-220
- Maximum winding length (per turn of handle): 52.8 inches (134 cm) / Handle length: 3.1 inches (80 mm)
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Number of Bearings (BB/Roller): 12/1
