23 Shimano Conquest BFS Review: Comparing 17 and 23 Versions / How-To Choose Features (BFS Fishing)

In this video, 23 Shimano Conquest BFS Review: Comparing 17 and 23 Versions / How-To Choose Features (BFS Fishing), Hobie-Wan Kenobi talks about some key differences between the 2017 and 2023 Conquest BFS and also explains some important factors when selecting a BFS reel.
www.digitaka.com/items/5/4/2/CALCUTTA+CONQUEST+BFS
Digitaka Discount Code: K63
Comparing the 2023 Conquest BFS to the 2017 version, almost every aspect I would consider an upgrade. The gears being Micro Module aluminum can arguably be a downgrade but, I feel these gars will keep their smoothness for a long time compared to older Shimano aluminum Micro Module gears.
I will be comparing the Conquest BFS to many other BFS reels such as the Daiwa Gekkabijin AIE TW, Silver Creek AIR TW and Curado BFS.
Be sure to check out my future field testing of the Shimano Conquest BFS and also, a future TackleTour write-up!
8.9 gear ratio
13/1 bearings
7oz (195gr)
Micro Module gears
FROM SHIMANO JAPAN:
The Calcutta Conquest BFS, a bait finesse dedicated machine that condenses cutting-edge functions into an elegant circular body, has been reborn with the low inertia Magnum Light Spool III and NEW FTB. The lightweight lure extends even lower as if crawling on the surface of the water, and can be used for flipcasting of about 1g. Brake system FTB eliminates the brake unit from the spool and contributes to low spool inertia. Magnetic brakes that take advantage of centrifugal characteristics provide stable and stretchy casting. In addition, the stroke of the brake unit has been expanded and a magnetic ring that releases the magnetic force during Min braking has been placed to improve its brake control performance. From the X-SHIP that strongly supports gears, to the carbon cross washer with a smooth feeling even in the light line, to the exciting drag sound that captivates the hearts of anglers, it covers all the functions necessary for bait finesse. The circular body, which is made of cold-forged material and finished by high-precision cutting, is not only beautiful but also more compact and improves palm-ability. Calcutta Conquest BFS with state-of-the-art features and kindness. The circular body that shines beautifully in nature gives a sweet world view that can only be found in this reel.
The Calcutta Conquest BFS is Shimano's only circular biaxial bait finesse reel. The massive body created by forging cutting is not only functional, but also wears beauty and elegance as a tool. Facing the deep world of light lures centered on black bass and mountain stream trout, the trad form that blends in with the natural scenery and the unique presence of the circular reel will fill the hearts of anglers.
Equipped with MGL Spool III, which achieves low inertia by significantly reducing the thickness. Immediately after release, it rises lightly, achieving a smooth cast feel, as well as improving long-throw performance and trouble-free performance. Pinpoint casting at low trajectory is also at will. Lightweight lures can be comfortably delivered to the cover.
The Calcutta Conquest BFS features the NEW FTB, which expands the range of motion of the brake unit and allows for a wide range of brake settings. In the previous model, the magnetic force of the magnet affected the spool even when it was set to Dial 1, but the NEW FTB succeeded in reducing the influence of the magnetic force on the spool as close to zero as possible by the magnetic ring effect. The synergy with the MGL Spool III further polished the low trajectory with light rise and extension.
S3D, a cutting technology that improves spool accuracy, and silent tune that applies light pressure to the bearing that holds the spool to reduce vibration at high speed rotation also greatly contribute to improving cast performance. In addition to the MGL Spool III and NEW FTB, by thoroughly eliminating elements that impede rotation, we have achieved a stable cast with elongation that does not stall until just before landing.

[@Dmpreciado]

I went all out in 19 i bought the 17 calcutta bfs and replaced the spool, bearings and some cosmetics and i can launch trout magnets no problem i spent so much time to make it mine and personalized its so sexy. Glad to see they made a newer updated one but im sticking to my baby

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I didn't get the 17 Conquest BFS until late 2021 😂. The low gear ratio turned me away. Now...I learned my lesson.

[@Bigfoot120]

Bought the diawa progressive from watching ur videos and its one of my favorites now, expensive but well worth it, can't wait for the new calcutta to show up

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I really like that rod for trout 10" and larger. Casts really nice, twitches excellent and still gives into a nice backbone to cushion the fight

[@yoloomis]

Great job

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thank you for watching.

[@AP_Thailand]

Had a quite good idea of the design differences since pictures and sizes have been available for weeks already, but in hurry to watch the comparison for casting performance 😃

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have some casting uploaded now

[@AP_Thailand]

@@HobieWanKenobi watching now! 😍

[@fairladyz9957]

Just got mine in the mail how do you set the spool tension can’t feel it move side to size

[@hafizanzahari159]

great review as always 😁quick question, do you have any abu bfs reel ? never seen you use or review them😬

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I do not have any Abu Garcia BFS reels. I may get one soon. I was waiting for Abu Garcia to make a new one but, I may be waiting a while.

[@lymphy12]

@@HobieWanKenobi also Try-Angle is now making new Isuzu reels those are allover eBay for hefty $$$$

[@4726052]

What's your thoughts vs the 23 aldebaren?

[@pauliuskaralis6734]

Even with less comfort because of lower gear ratio, i still prefer my 17 calcutta to 16 aldebaran xg. Calcutta is a pure beauty and you forgive her small imperfections 😊 Now lets wait for the field tests of your new reel. I have a feeling it will become your favourite reel 😉

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The new Conquest BFS definitely has a good chance

[@lymphy12]

I'm sticking to 17 (6.8), the gear ratio is still a sweet spot between dinosaur abu 2500c (5.2) and modern bfs (in high 8s). Also new aluminum gear is not as "micromodular" does it feel any different?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I felt the 23 Conquest to be super smooth...and that is the 8.9 ratio. Time will tell if it stays smooth. I think it will based off my 22 Aldebaran BFS testing.

[@ingremaudalain]

Bonjour et merci pour cette bonne vidéo.... votre avis est très pertinent .. j'aime beaucoup le dising .. Vivement de connaître les performances ... Cordialement , Alain de France.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

A testing video is just now released. More in the future as well

[@SuranareeCompany]

Hello bro, I would like to know information from you.... Inside this CQBFS 2023, is the main gear adequately lubricated with factory grease? and should I add more grease to the main and pinion gears? Thank you for your effort in creating great clips for us anglers.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I haven't heard of people having issues with lubrication. There is a small chance there is no or too little grease but, you will feel that. I had a Daiwa Steez come bone dry before.

[@jamesong2672]

Please do a comparison between the new CQ BFS and the Silver Creek Air. The VS showdown 😂. I understand the silver creek should compare with the Aldebaran but I have no interest in the Aldebaran 😆 so I hope u do one or maybe a write up running pe line. Thanks

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I'm running PE line on it for now. I will swap to other line just to test it out. I feel this reel is just different than the Silver Creek. Almost too different to compare but, I will give it a shot 😂.

[@ichphan]

I just got mine a couple days ago . Haven't got the chance to use it. Wondering which rod is best for it

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The rod has a lot to do with lures used and also fish being caught. What kind of fishing do you usually do?

[@Sporophore_Hunter]

I can't decide if I wanna go with the new conquest bfs or get a 21 Conquest 100 and modify the spool. The rod I'm trying to match is a Megabass Valkyrie world expedition, VKC-58ML-4, which is rated 3g to 1oz. Crazy, I know. But I've been trying out 1/2 oz and above on my Aldebaran BFS to figure out which reel to go with, and I don't like how it feels zinging all that weight out there. Cost aside, does it seem like a good match to go with the 100 and modify? Or am I just thinking too much

[@HobieWanKenobi]

You could get away with the 100 without mods with that weight. Could always go with a Daiwa SV reel and have finesse (like1/8oz) and above covered.

[@Sporophore_Hunter]

@@HobieWanKenobi thanks!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

No problem.

[@aoi1286]

I dont feel safe with the alum gear of 2023 version. As you have 2 versions [17 nad 23] can you compare the main gear size in case i want to swap the main gear?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I dont think it will work. Shimano's newer aluminum gears have stayed smooth.

[@davidgibson6263]

How do you think this reel compares to the 22 Aldebaran? Which one do you prefer?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

You will see a comparison in the future. I do really like both reels but, there is just something about a Conquest BFS on the stream that sticks with me.

[@davidgibson6263]

@@HobieWanKenobi For long range casting in ponds and lakes which one will preform better in your opinion?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@davidgibson6263 They will be pretty similar

[@hookalounge]

As a lifelong braid user with everything from the Curado DC to the new Aldebaran, I have one question. Why does Shimano recommend fluoro for this and some other reels and is it worth switching over? I’ve heard everything from the line being too thin and jumping between the spool and side opening but with the tolerances they have been killing it with, that shouldn’t be an issue. If that’s not why, then why do they emphasize fluorocarbon line for it? and what lb test would you recommend for lightweight 1-5g lures?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The braking profile could cater more to fluorocarbon. I found it to cast great with braid or fluorocarbon. If trout fishing, 4lb is pretty good.

[@hookalounge]

@@HobieWanKenobi Is it because braid requires a less aggressive braking profile?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes

[@joepicasso69]

Hi, I just got the Conquest BFS yesterday. Can you confirm for me please, the magnetic brake dial; is it suppose to click or not click. I know the star drag and spool tension knob clicks. That's odd that the magentic brake dial doesn't click to show/feel the braking is to get stronger.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The brake knob does not click. This allows for "unlimited" brake adjustments, like you are stuck with going from click 15 to click 16 for example

[@insearchofperch8170]

Great vid fella! Looks a really sleek reel! Now all you need to do is bomb casts as far as possible and measure them, it’s about distance not ease of cast as we know 😂

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I was thinking about casting size 25 dry flies too 😂

[@lymphy12]

this is why we can't have nice things

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@lymphy12 😂...that's WHY we have nice things

[@lymphy12]

@@HobieWanKenobi Flies are cool if glass noodle rod does all the "finesse" lifting, but you sacrifice traditional way of casting

[@insearchofperch8170]

@@HobieWanKenobi why not. That is a widely used bait finesse method!

[@MrLarrypad]

Good barebones video. I have been waiting for your videos before getting one. How does it fish?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Thanks. You will find out how the Conquest BFS performs very soon 😁

[@MrLarrypad]

@@HobieWanKenobi I will be waiting. I saw you wearing waders so I know you went out after filming this.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

You are correct. I was wanted to get it on the water. I have been fishing lakes for a while so, getting out trout fishing without the water being super high from runoff sounded nice.

[@DrinkWetPoopFishing]

Do you have a current digitaka discount code? just tried k63 and it didn't work.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

79J

[@gmpbuilder]

My favorite BFS reel is the only one I own -Shimano Curado BFS. But you make me wonder.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

The Curado BFS is a killer bass BFS reel. It doesn't do too well in the streams. Wider rivers, it's ok.

[@philipfalco7304]

I matched my Curado BFS on the Shimano Sensilite 7' with 6-7LB. Gold floro and use it for Bass. It matches great and functions good as a Topwater or small plastics combo. For the Lighter stuff (Trout) there are better options but I'll leave it up to Master Hobie to guide you for I'm fairly new to this BFS rabbit hole.

[@bensmith2055]

Had mine a few days ago my first round ree too ,,,how does the spool tensioner nob work it's unlike my daiwa alfa an silver creek ,,when untension the nob it doesn't have the side to side play with the spool

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I usually adjust my side to side play to have the tiniest amount of movement then, it's all the brake dial from there.

[@bensmith2055]

@Hobie-Wan Kenobi yes I normally do that with all my reels but this shimano calcutta 23 doesn't have any side to side play even when you lossen it right off ,, well mine doesn't

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@bensmith2055 The newer Shimano BFS reels are all like that

[@bensmith2055]

@@HobieWanKenobi ok thanks hobie 👍👍👍

[@philipfalco7304]

@@HobieWanKenobi I believe it's the silent tune with the O-ring. My 22 Aldebaran and 22 Met. Shallow does the same thing. I have to open the side plate, pull out the spool and put it back in to get a little side to side play.

[@SketchbookGuitar]

There it is. I've been waiting for this. I just hope it's as good as aldebaran bfs. I was waiting for the higher gear ratio.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

It obviously is not as light as the Aldebaran BFS but...you will see soon how it performs.

[@SketchbookGuitar]

@@HobieWanKenobi Please do. While I don't do as much as stream fishing my target fish is snakeheads, hampalas and the occasion beach casting small stuff. I tend to get out maneuvered by the fish due to low ratio and I prefer barbless.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@SketchbookGuitar I have bass and pike around me that will really put this reel to the test.

[@hometownguy7184]

I'm STILL waiting on digitaka to come thru

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@hometownguy7184 Worth the wait. Some places have them for way more money...and charge shipping.

[@DragosLupascu]

Would be great to see if it can throw the trout magnet 😊

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I have a strong suspicion there will be other people trying to defy physics.

[@makeorwellfictionagain3553]

😂😂😂

[@catchemdinks]

It can do it.

[@leepao6302]

can't wait for a roro or avail spool for spool upgrade

[@HobieWanKenobi]

There may be a Roro spool available soon. I am sure Avail will make a spool as it shares the same size spool as the 22 Aldebaran BFS.

[@frog2610]

@@HobieWanKenobi have you checked if the KKR spool for the aldebaran fits? Saw someone did it on FB but would like to get more confirmation.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@frog2610 I have put the KKR spool into the 23 Conquest BFS. It does fit and function in hand. I will need a few test casts to confirm 100% operation.

[@frog2610]

@@HobieWanKenobi That's good to know! Looking forward to your tests and tackletour writeup. I just picked mine up at Fedex and I'm eager to use it. Mine came feeling like it could benefit from some light grease inside, but I'll probably fish it a bit before servicing it to see if it just needs breaking in.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@frog2610 Sometimes a small amount of use distributes the grease through the gears. If it feels really rough, definitely stop using and see if there is grease on the gears. I once had a Steez SV TW come bone dry. No grease or oil in it.

[@andreiiancu5144]

I have a curiosity. Can you use the Calcutta 17 spool on the new Calcutta 23? Or maybe the Aldebaran 22 spool?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

17 Conquest BFS spool will not fit. 23 Conquest and 22 Aldebaran BFS spools are compatible

[@andreiiancu5144]

@@HobieWanKenobi that means the 22 Alde Avail spool and kkr are compatible too. Amazing! Thank you!

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@andreiiancu5144 I only test fit. I will cast around to truly confirm

[@andreiiancu5144]

@@HobieWanKenobi thank you a lot for this! Can’t wait to see the results.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@andreiiancu5144 Stay tuned and you will!

[@216edwin]

Is this good for muskie or should I get shimano tranx 400hg

[@HobieWanKenobi]

This definitely wont be good for muskie

[@thatonebeone]

deeper spool then the AL22?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Same depth.

[@moratheexplorer5791]

Can conquest 23 long cast for 9 gram lures sir ???

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Yes. The biggest issue would be line capacity if using thicker line

[@fairladyz9957]

Will digitaka have these in stock again? Left hand HG

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I am sure soon there will be. Could sign up for notifications on Digitaka for the reel

[@fairladyz9957]

@@HobieWanKenobi thank you will do

[@yep.fishing]

I dunno about you but I never take my reels off and store them in bags.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

Me either. Can't stand rod/reel covers that can't be used in a functional way.

[@yep.fishing]

@@HobieWanKenobi I want to be able to pull the car over and flick a cast out. Not assemble and rig up the rod. Though if you want to pull apart your 2 piece rods their are hard rod cases that accommodate leaving the reel on

[@HobieWanKenobi]

True. I just boggles my mind that most JDM covers make you take the combo apart everytime.

[@QUEEROSEXUAL-GENDERMANCER]

The weak aluminum micro gears from shimano are only good for bfs duties or it gets buzzy within a year.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

From my experience, the Aldebaran BFS gears are still very smooth. I have not seen as many complaints about the new Shimano aluminum gears as I have in the past.

[@QUEEROSEXUAL-GENDERMANCER]

@@HobieWanKenobi You won't see much complaints when those gears are used inside of reels that use lures with zero resistance.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I was talking about people using "normal" bass baitcasting reels from Shimano with aluminum gears.

[@QUEEROSEXUAL-GENDERMANCER]

@@HobieWanKenobi Like which reels in particular? Met2020 has a metric ton of issues. Its not "new" anymore, but recent. And if Shimano changed the way they cnc gear sets, i think they would've marketed it.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

@@QUEEROSEXUAL-GENDERMANCER Sometimes, companies do not announce changes, as it implies they are admitting they had an issue 😂. I know I have seen WAY more complaints with the 13 Metanium than the new ones. My 22 Aldebaran BFS has been through some fairly tough bass fishing (pitching around docks for bass with drag locked). I haven't put heavy resistance baits on it. For practical uses people will use the Conquest BFS for, I think the gears will be fine. I hope I do not prove my theory wrong after more use with the Conquest BFS.

[@WhereWeWild]

Nice man. Thing looks so sick haha I want the swimbait reel too 😂 Just found ya on Instagram btw 😊🤙🏽

[@HobieWanKenobi]

This can do baby swimbaits 😂

[@WhereWeWild]

@@HobieWanKenobi Hahaha 😁🤙🏽

[@huntryx1]

Digitaka code disabled

[@pawelr.6257]

Okay,, You've already had some of these BFS reels through your hands. And now for such an honest and short opinion. Which reel is the least problematic and most practical when using. Short and to the point.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

That is a tough question to answer. Depends on intended lures and conditions. I find the new Shimano reels are the most versatile. For stress free casting, I would choose the Silver Creek. That does not mean other reels are wild and out of control, the Silver Creek I feel has the most forgiving brakes without being overly restrictive.

[@pawelr.6257]

@@HobieWanKenobi Depends on intended lures and conditions? Strangely said. After all, it is known for which lures BFS reels were created. Here there should be no division into different conditions and different lures. Bfs to Bfs. And in all weather conditions as well as conditions dictated by the river, we have to measure ourselves on expeditions. And usually we have one rod and one reel with us.

[@StaySaneFishing]

@@pawelr.6257 Maybe you are new to BFS, but there is a giant difference between trying to cast a minnow style lure that generally weighs 3g and a trout magnet that is less than 1g. If you want to be completely independent of lure, than grab a spinning reel. So, for you, short and to the point: Grab a spinning reel.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

I was speaking of lures and conditions in a few ways. Intended use could be for bass fishing, which has far different needs than for stream fishing. Another factor is that in stream fishing, some people only use heavy minnows that cast like a rocket. Some people lean more toward lightweight jigs and other light lures such as small floating minnows that have a lot of air resistance. I could just say "get the 23 Conquest BFS" as a blanket answer to hype a product like everyone else on KZbin but, if the angler does not need certain attributes, why pay for them? I would not buy the 23 Conquest just for bass fishing, as I feel the SLX BFS will perform about the same for how I use BFS for bass. BFS to BFS is not apples🍎 to apples 🍎. BFS is widely accepted as being created for bass fishing. The lures, line and, certainly not the fish know what reel is being used.

[@pawelr.6257]

@@StaySaneFishing I don't think you understood what I wrote. I know perfectly well what is the difference between these lures and how to cast them. There are no reels dedicated to lures. Maybe you think they are? Some for minnow wobblers and others for jigs 😂 The baits that are in the box are different and you don't choose the reel for baits when you go fishing. What you wrote is torally meaningless and off-topic to the question I asked, but not to you.

[@steveking8548]

For the folks that like reel covers, could you give a better effort at putting on the reel cover next time?

[@HobieWanKenobi]

What do you mean??? 😂

[@steveking8548]

@@HobieWanKenobi I would like to see the reel covers on the reels. Your attempt to put them on looked like you've never picked up a reel before. You flip, flopped them around like it was impossible to use them when in fact there are many, many people who put covers on their reels every day.

[@HobieWanKenobi]

This specific reel cover will not work while the reel is mounted on a rod. An actual reel cover, not this reel pouch, works just fine.