Bass Fishing Jul - Sept 2019 | Page 51

HAGANE BODY: CLICKABLE EXTERNAL DIAL: The rigid HAGANE Body features a gunmetal finish accented by an anodized green handle, star drag and spool with the gear ratio stamped on the face. Located at the top front of the side plate, the dial allows for easily selecting one of four settings for the braking system. A fifth (zero) setting releases the side plate for access to the spool. I-DC4 MICRO-COMPUTER: The fully sealed I-DC4 system constantly monitors and controls the speed of the line spool to reduce backlashing and overruns while improving casting dis- tance, accuracy and control. Performance Advice It’s always best to choose a reel with a gear ratio that’s best suited for the primary techniques for which it will be used. The DC150HG’s 7.4:1 ratio splits the seam between the three available ratios and is a good all-around choice for a wide range of applications. Gathering 31 inches of line per crank, it’ll eat up slack line quickly when needed, or you can slow it down enough to work a plethora of other baits effectively. A note: As useful as the I-DC4 is for curbing backlash, it’s crucial that the spool tension knob be dialed in correct- ly in order for the system to function properly. >> ON THE WATER HITS & MISSES + User-friendly I-DC4 mag- netic braking system to reduce backlashing + Easy-to-use four-mode braking adjustment dial + A lot of reel for the money + Super-low profile + Ergonomically pleasing + Various gear ratios available + Durable pinion gears, bearings and body design – Less line capacity than its non-DC brother, the Curado 200K DETAILS Price: $249.99 Weight: 7.8 ounces (7.9 on the high-speed XG) Gear Ratios: 6.2:1, 7.4:1 (reviewed), 8.5:1 Left and Right Retrieve: Yes Spool Capacity: 90 yards of 14-pound- test mono Contact: fish.shimano.com APPLICATIONS • The anti-backlash component is sure to build confidence in begin- ners while improving casting efficiency for advanced anglers with less need for thumbing the spool. • The No. 4 braking mode is ideal for skipping applications and is also useful when casting into stiff winds with lightweight lures. SUMMER 2019 I FLWFISHING.COM 49