DAIWA SALTIGA OR SHIMANO STELLA?

In this video I unbox a brand new Daiwa Saltiga 6000 XE. I have always been a Shimano guy but I couldn't resist trying this reel out. What would you choose between a Saltiga 2023 or a Stella 2019? Please comment below and thank you for watching!

[@ARFFWorld]

Super clean reel, nice review. 👍🏽 Thanks for the shout out at the end too braddah. Tight Lines!

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Thanks man! Can’t wait to try this out!! And yeah thanks for leading the way when it comes to catching the big boys 🤙🏼

[@danielmak3504]

Looking forward to an update on these 2! Looking at the 14000 and tending towards the Saltiga right now

[@KeoniWong-iv2lo]

20K Let’s Go!!! New Subscriber. 🤙🏽

[@lowkeyfrankd]

So stoked! Thanks for all of your help! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@kris7791]

Nice and concise "out-of-the-box" review 👍 Would be great to see your opinion after putting it through the rigours that saltwater brings! I'm vested as I'm looking to add this size of reel to my Norway fishing arsenal shore spinning for large coalfish and halibut. Currently using a Diawa BG 4000 which is still smooth and solid given all the abuse it's lived through 😅 All the best with your channel from the UK 🇬🇧

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Thanks so much! That is good to know that your 4k is going strong 💪🏼. I have heard very good things about the Daiwa reels. I tend to be hard on my stuff so I will definitely put it to the test. Will do a review after a few sessions. Thanks again and cheers 🎣🤙🏼

[@sambarfisher7855]

I own both Stella and saltiga in 6000. The drag adjustment is better on the saltiga but when under high drag near max, I feel the Stella is slightly smoother. Both are fantastic. I also have them both in larger sizes. In the larger sizes I prefer the saltiga.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Right on! Sounds like you got quite the quiver 🙌🏼. I love the drag adjustment on the saltiga as well. I haven’t caught anything big yet so it hasn’t been tested but I love the incremental settings and I like how it sticks up so it’s easy to grab. That is an interesting comparison when it comes to high drag. Can’t wait for the new Stella! Thanks for the feedback 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@mr.c6057]

Mr. Daiwa Reel Man here. I have the Saltiga 4000. It is plenty good for any application of fishing.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Right on! Glad that you like it 🤙🏼 I can’t wait to put it to the test. Thanks! 🤙🏼

[@hldemi_fishing]

Havent watched the video, jist saw the title and thought, finally someone made a video about this. Hope video is good 😂

[@lowkeyfrankd]

😂😂 thanks! It’s a pretty basic review but hopefully it answers some questions. Thanks!

[@S.Clause]

Lot of good information in the comments section. Looking for your next video.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Thanks! Stoked on the comments 🙌🏼 I’m definitely learning. Thank you for watching and commenting 🙏🏼🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@elijahbl5745]

I'm looking at the 14000s, gonna be hard to decide for sure

[@christophermillett2273]

Just bought the stella sw6000 today. I'm happy with my purchase.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Nice! Congrats on your Stella 🔥🔥

[@miketorre16]

im thinking about the 6000XG japan model.. my Fav reels

[@lowkeyfrankd]

@@miketorre16 You will be stoked!!

[@billysheridan3487]

I have the Saltiga 5000xh , into its 2nd year fishing the west coast of Ireland , gets constantly hit by waves , I’ve dropped it in the sea , it’s slipped into rock pools while unhooking fish , jeez I’m awkward 😂- rinse it off at home and still like new . Beautiful classic looking reel , strong , smooth, waterproof to 1m . Have a Stella as well, love it but it can’t take that abuse .

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Wow! You sound a lot like me! I tend to be rough as well. Most reels are never the same after being submerged in the ocean. Glad to hear that the saltiga is sealed well 🙌🏼 Thanks for the comment! Cheers 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@DrJanLindberg]

Nothing beats 6000 Saltiga!

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I finally used mine yesterday and I was very impressed! It is definitely a step up from my twin power. Thanks!

[@fisherboyyy]

Owner of both large, small, new and old. Saltigas drag is awesome, feels great under pressure. However, ive bent the main shaft on the large previous dogfight, the bearings go so quickly and the mag seal is a gimmick. Stella still has a great drag system but is better engineered and lasts a very long time, fish after fish is no problem.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

That’s crazy you bent the shaft on the dogfight! Must have been some serious action. I don’t understand the mag seal so that makes me suspect a little lol. But so far so good. Hopefully I’ll really put it to the test soon. Thanks for your input as you have used them all. 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@saltylawaia8958]

Saltiga all the way! Owned a Stella, felt to nice for the fishing I was doing so I sold it lol.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Stoked to give this reel a shot! Definitely the nicest reel I have ever owned 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@rationalthinker9181]

I own a mix of Shimano Stella's both FJ and SW and Daiwa Exist and Saltiga some older then also the 2020 and 2023 whenever I service them I always wonder why Shimano is so complicated. Diawa is very simple and their water resistance appears much more robust. You won't go wrong either way but Daiwa is starting to edge ahead IMO as their design is very robust I suspect will last for many many years.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Thanks for the feedback. It does seem robust especially for a small reel. I’ve heard from others that even after hard use they remain in great working order I plan on doing general maintenance on mine once a month and cleaning it well after each use. Sometimes the hardest part for me is the hike in and out so I will definitely be using the reel case when transporting. Thanks! 🤙🏼

[@ryan26i]

Got me a Saltiga 5000XH worth every penny😁

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Right on! Stoked to hear that you are happy with yours! 🤙🏼🎣💤

[@MrZygy3]

I'll buy Saltiga 🎉

[@lowkeyfrankd]

🙌🏼🙌🏼🎣💤 Thanks!

[@classydriimz1403]

I just got my 2020 Stella SW 6000hg, but I really like the higher drag of the 23 saltiga 6000h, do you think it’s worth selling my stella for this saltiga? Thanks in advance.🤝🏼

[@lowkeyfrankd]

That’s a tough one for sure. Both are really solid reels. I am really impressed with the performance of the Saltiga. I haven’t caught anything too big yet but you can tell that it can for sure handle. Stella has the advantage of being able to utilize a 5 and 6k spool on the same body which is nice. I would only sell your Stella if you can get a good price for it. It’s hard to not want the newest version available but either way get whichever one you will want to use more. You could get the Saltiga and do a side by side comparison and then sell the stella after. But I know it’s big bucks. Best of luck 🤙🏼🤙🏼🎣💤

[@Teach_1ne]

I chose the Stella 6k but I’ve had it 3 years now. Now I’m torn between the ocea jigger and the SALTIGA slow pitch reels. My next spinning reel will be certate LT. I’m getting into light tackle shit from Japan current. 🤦🏾‍♂️🤣

[@lowkeyfrankd]

That’s awesome you have a stella. It should definitely last. As far as the Jigger vs Saltiga that’s a tough choice. Seems like specs look great on both but I like the color way of the Saltiga lol. Can’t go wrong with either. Light tackle can be a blast and usually more action. Thanks! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@Teach_1ne]

@@lowkeyfrankd I actually think the older saltiga looked better than the newest one haha. They just dropped a new oJ but I can’t find it to order in Japan yet. Dave’s money ordering from them directly 💯

[@baramundi7800]

Doesnt matter which one you get. you will bulleye it with both. Probably go with the Saltiga Thanks for the review.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I agree! It’s a nice problem to have when you are choosing between a Stella or a Saltiga lol. Both are amazing reels!

[@lowkeyfrankd]

And thanks for watching 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@baramundi7800]

@@lowkeyfrankd thanks for your time.

[@leopan723]

I know some Shimano guys bought this Saltiga when it comes out last year,including me,it’s because Shimano haven’t released their new Stella SW,I hope it will come out later this year

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Agreed. I’m a shimano guy but I wanted a newer reel 2023 vs 2019. I’m thinking the new Stella will drop next year. I better start saving 😂🤙🏼 Thanks!

[@kamadowoah4584]

​@lowkeyfrankd ah so it's next year. Make or break for shimano in the high end reel department. I'll probably end up buying it lol.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Shimano hasn’t released any information on the new Stella but it has been every 6 years in the past. I’ll probably end up buying it too lol 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@kamadowoah4584]

The good thing about the 6000 size saltiga compared to the 5000 is that you can fit a full roll of quality pe4 onto the 6k.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Exactly! One nice thing about the Stella is that you can interchange spools from the 5k to 6k. The saltigas spool can only use the same size. It isn’t a deal breaker for me as 6k is perfect. I plan on getting another 6k spool in the near future for back up. Thanks! 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@yumalavita1268]

@@lowkeyfrankdgrazie per l informazione amico,nn riuscivo a trovarla da nessuna parte,ho un saltiga 6000 e volevo acquistare una shallow di slp works per PE sottili, ma nn sapevo se come il saltiga 2020 il corpo fosse il solito per le altre taglie.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I wanted the gold SLP but it was out of stock. I ordered the blue even though it’s a different shade of blue. My plan is to use one spool for top water and one for jigging/ sinking 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@DrJanLindberg]

23 Saltiga and 22+23 Exist with A7075 alloy forged main gear

[@thatonebeone]

i like shimano's too ..ordered a custom exist sf and saltiga from japan

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Both are amazing! Custom Exist sf sounds sick 🤙🏼 Thanks!

[@thatonebeone]

only thing i just noticed that daiwa dont like sell main parts like gear shafts and other parts, they want you to send the reel in...i like to maintain my own reels, just not a fan of how they do that... shimano's you can get most the parts for it.. just not a fan of buying something then its not repairable yourself because daiwa locks the parts to them for you to send in the reel then next thing you know they will say this and that also need replacing $$$$$ @@lowkeyfrankd

[@johnnyrp8253]

Gibbs be tough trying to service in USA

[@johnnyrp8253]

I have both in size 4000 I’m not gonna lie the the saltiga soo damn smooth to the point I don’t even think the Stella smooth anymore 😢

[@juanpaulobuay33]

No way but i love the design and the mechanism of daiwa saltiga for the latest model saltiga 2023! Best is SALTIGA all day♥️

[@lowkeyfrankd]

This reel is a thing of beauty 😱 Can’t wait to throw some lures! 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@vsonic86]

Saltiga all days until Daiwa is going bankrupt. I’m on vacation right now and I bought the 6000XH saltiga during Black Friday, this thing is the beast. Very impressive with their seal.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Right on! Glad to hear that you are happy with it. Testing mine out this weekend! 🙌🏼🤙🏼

[@gregoryn9378]

Shimano is specialised for what I issue its percision for to produce the results that I need to produce the products these companys produce is nothing with out us applying their products as an extention of our skills as anglers, with that said real quick I appreciate the innovation that is crafted with my choice of equipment I want to mention so shouts out, but back to the subject shimano produces exquistit results with their products but Daiwa takes that class to the next level with the mag seal first of all salt ready then increase in ball bearing , leverage to put short work to your prey is second to none plus motivation to competitors to step up theri game with respect to inovating better products so when it comes to dynamic dyversity I can not entertain stagnatation with any brand of products . creating legendary experiences is our game, and incrediable storys indefinently so cheers chaps see you on the water.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Well said!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@miketorre16]

who used both? which one is better? I like the Stella, I have a 4000FK and a 14000 SW

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Not yet. So far I’m using the saltiga and I love it. I’m planning on buying the next Stella SW whenever it comes out so I can do a proper side by side. I can honestly say that it’s better than my Twin power but I can’t say about Stella. Hopefully they release it soon. Thanks for the comment and it sounds like you have some solid gear 🤙🏼

[@miketorre16]

@lowkeyfrankd the same. I've used the Stella SW. 14K, which is what I used to catch this striper you see on my profile picture... cranks them in like nothing, same with Bluefish the same size. Hard to imagine the Saltiga being "better". Maybe the same , but I'd like to try and compare... when is the new Stella SW coming out??

[@miketorre16]

@@lowkeyfrankd have you ever used a Stella SW?

[@lowkeyfrankd]

@@miketorre16 Im thinking 2025 as they seem to be every 5 years.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

@@miketorre16I have only tried my friends 2019 Stella 5k for a session. It was a great reel but I have not fished either enough to do an honest comparison. I do like that the 5 and 6k spools are interchangeable where as Saltiga is not. I plan on using this for a solid year then getting the new Stella so I have a good base for comparison 🤙🏼

[@MrTxalus]

Stella. At least you can maintenance yourself without special tools or special magseal oil and replace any part of the reel if needed.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Well said. I have serviced all my shimanos. Saltiga seems well built but would most likely need to be serviced professionally. Next Stella will be 🔥🔥

[@fabianjackson3780]

Saltiga for me I own the stella

[@lowkeyfrankd]

🔥🔥🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@hldemi_fishing]

Stella has only two things going in its favor. A bit smoother and much easier to service bcs of mag sealed. Saltiga 6k is 20grams lighter, has 5mm longer handle, bigger and sturdier rotor, bigger spool capacity and stronger drag system. I like stellas look a bit better though but thats subjective. Having said all that its worth considering that saltoga is 4 years younger. I cant wait for the new stella, hope shimano does it justice this time so its really worth price difference from TP. And I hope it gets out soon, its already 5 years and no announcements.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I agree. This year was finally my year to invest in a flagship reel. I really wanted Stella but went for the newer Saltiga. I was also impressed with Daiwa’s marketing for the Saltiga 2023. It definitely influenced my decision to buy. I’m really hoping that the new Stella delivers but I’m suprised we have not heard anything yet. Thanks!

[@hldemi_fishing]

@@lowkeyfrankd exactly my thoughts. Have money for saltiga but am in no rush yet... somehow feel that new stella is a long way from coming so I think I am gonna end up buying saltiga 6k

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I think one of the best things I like about it is how light it feels. I fished all day yesterday and it felt great. I almost got the Stella FK 5k but wanted a dedicated SW model. My friend loves his FK. Maybe get the saltiga now then sell it whenever the Stella comes out They hold their value if you take good care of it. 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@hldemi_fishing]

@@lowkeyfrankd thats what I thought. I really fell in love with 2020 saltiga. I think its mastepiece. Felt perfect. But it does not fit my zenaq sonio. Never tried 2023 saltiga but if it feels like its bigger sister, I dont think I am ever gonna sell it. Unless new stella comes out as totall killer :)

[@aekara1000]

I have both and I know exactly the differences but when I see statement that Saltiga is smother I can only laugh lol 😂

[@DrJanLindberg]

Do you really have a 23 Saltiga? Could not be smoother! You also need to use it a few times before completely broken in. Gears have the best allow (AA7075). beating Stella !

[@aekara1000]

@@DrJanLindbergI have the older one but I fish extensively with the new one catching blue fish I can ensure you 1000% that is not Stella in terms of smoothness except that Stella is significantly easier to wind on specially under heavy loads about 30%! this is very important, on the other hand Saltiga is lighter compared the same size Stella

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I really wanted to buy both but couldn’t afford at the moment 😂. My friend says he thinks it’s smoother than his Stella 2019. But interestingly enough he prefers his 2013 over both 🤷🏻‍♂️. I used my Saltiga yesterday and it is definitely nicer than my twin power. I plan on testing it against the next Stella whenever it comes out. Thanks! 🤙🏼

[@DrJanLindberg]

Big difference between old and new Saltiga. My new 23 Saltiga is also as smooth as my Stella and as easy to wind no matter how high the load.

[@aekara1000]

@@DrJanLindbergin a parallel universe!

[@HSAfishing]

Daiwa saltiga 💯

[@japinoybettajapan]

Beautiful saltiga is better ❤❤❤

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Loving mine so far! Thanks!

[@gigga747]

I was Shimano customer for many years, until I started using Daiwa Certate, then Saltigas…., my verdict: Daiwa is better for spinning 👍🏼

[@lowkeyfrankd]

So far I love the Saltiga!! Thank you for the comment. Wondering what the new Stella SW will have in store 🤔🤙🏼

[@dmnguye69]

Alan Hawks has spoken already :)

[@TankerShell]

What was his conclusion?

[@dmnguye69]

@@TankerShell Daiwa Saltiga is technically the #1 offshore fishing reel according to his rating, but he held out because their support of the Mag Seal not available everywhere which makes it harder for some folks in other countries to get service. Check out his website especially the last Saltiga review. "My smile stems partially from the fond memories, but mostly from a deep sense of fulfilment that after a lifetime of looking I finally found it - my elusive holy grail."

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Alan is legit when it comes to reel reviews. I think he had Saragosa then Stella before the Saltiga. But everyone he’s their opinion. Thanks! 🤙🏼🙏🏼

[@dmnguye69]

@@lowkeyfrankd actually if you click on the number 1 spot which is greyed out, it’ll take you to his explanation about the saltiga.

[@vanquishvein]

Once i feel a Saltiga, then I don't wanna move, My first was the 14000P back on may 2020 Then the 2021 IC 300L-SJ Then the 2022 15HL-SJ Then the 2023 6000H Went Fishing every weekend Salt abused But everything went well Last year I opened the MQ body of my 2020 14000P and found nothing, all the grease still sticking well Also the magsealed on the body and the roller bearing Then I think i don't have to buy warranty extension for my Saltiga even after three year of my abusive saltwater behaviour

[@lowkeyfrankd]

That is good to know 🙏🏼. I went through 2 Saragosa’s 6k last year 😵‍💫. One I fell on the rocks but the other one failed from getting submerged under water. Both were kinda my fault I’m hard on my stuff and that was the reason I made the switch. Thanks for the feedback! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@vanquishvein]

@@lowkeyfrankd I forgot to mention, the strange thing that I found after opening the MQ body of my 14000P Saltiga is a fingerprint inside the body cover

[@KuyaTomFishingAdvenrture]

what a nice reel...bat I can't afford it... 😢

[@bringit3164]

$683!

[@KuyaTomFishingAdvenrture]

@@bringit3164 I'm here in Philippines I can't buy that high amount..I need money for my family.before I buy my own needs.. ☺️😊

[@lowkeyfrankd]

It’s great but you can can catch fish with any reel 🤙🏼 Shimano Saragosa is a great reel for the price 🤙🏼 Thanks!

[@DrJanLindberg]

Daiwa has best gears now

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Seems like it. All in a small form factor. It’s a mini beast of a reel!

[@aekara1000]

If someone wants to know the truth about what reel is better I suggest to spend some time and watch reviews from Japan those guys are really serious no joke and you can find answers based on facts, there is a reason why serious Japanese anglers prefer a specific type of reel.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I agree! They go above and beyond breaking things down. I have been learning so much through their channels. It’s really interesting when they break down rods also there are many small differences that most people would miss. Thanks!

[@pantelistziatzios4044]

Of course Stella is the best thing in the world 💪💪💪

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I can’t wait for the next one!! 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@rde4864]

What the meaning of XE or XH?

[@ElvisPriscillaPresley]

The gearing.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

For saltiga H- 5.7 gearing XH- 6.2 gearing For Stella HG- 5.7 gearing XE- 6.2 gearing 5.7 turns per crank and 6.2 turns per crank

[@lowkeyfrankd]

H - high gear XH- extra high gear

[@rde4864]

Thanks mate

[@gabe.g3932]

Team Daiwa all day yew!

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Hell yeah! Can’t just try one brand gotta compare and see what comes out on top. Can’t wait to use this! 🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@FlatheadSickness]

You know your buddy Bill has been yelling Team Daiwa at you for years.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

@@FlatheadSickness sorry Bill I’m a slow learner lol. Maybe someday I’ll actually buy a sealine 😂

[@valyvaly3592]

Satiga ,problem with the maintenance the magnetic oil it's a big problem,Stella better for everyone and if you put the ceramic bearings you have a rell for life...

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Thanks for the comment! So far I’m loving my saltiga but I do have future concerns with the mag oil. I will be doing a follow up after some more hard use. Thanks! I’m also saving up for the next Stella SW 😊🤙🏼

[@ShorrockPaul]

Ceramic bearings? Ate they good for the Stella.. thought would be noisy

[@valyvaly3592]

@@ShorrockPaul Yes Man,100$ all setup.....

[@maasai-]

for me stella all the way , no magseal oil thing , better spool desgin , worm gear osc , will outcast any locomotive osc reels out there.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

The spool design is definitely different and the Stella also holds more line. I like the way the Saltiga casts but haven’t tried the Stella. I will be buying the new one (whenever it comes out) and doing a comparison. Thanks! 🤙🏼

[@wernerbradel9082]

Nur jigging master monster game Best reel

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Can’t wait to test it out! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@wernerbradel9082]

@@lowkeyfrankd Ich habe 2 jigging master monster game 8000/ 16000 spule für spinning auf wels

[@Al-oe8ib]

Or….2 x Penn Authority, fully IPX8, for the same price as one Daiwa or Shimano????….

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Definitely way more budget friendly🤙🏼 I have always wanted to try a Penn slammer. I have only used an older Spin fisher in their spinning lineup. Maybe I should try Penn since I was born in Pennsylvania lol. What is your favorite Penn model?

[@djboogiejay1616]

Neither! I have two Diawa Exist LT1000 and 2500 and two Certate. SW 1000 and 2500. Super smooth but the Exists have better drag systems imo.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Haha! Nice! I feel similar with my Stradic! It just keeps going lol. Thanks! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@miorazam6258]

Stella SW jointed handle..knocking sound when jigging application.. annoying.fk,fj model is good..solid handle..but for light applications Saltiga solid handle..silent

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Interesting. I love the Stella FK but it isn’t as durable for all applications. I’m hoping the next Stella is even better. Thanks! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@BigBopper-zm1kf]

I think Shimano has always just stayed that little bit in front.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I think they dominated the 2500-6000 sizes. It’s cool to see Daiwa offering a flagship model in the 4-6k range. I can’t wait for the next Stella! I better start saving! Thanks! 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@kamadowoah4584]

Stella is inferior. The line roller malfunction issue is a deal breaker. Ive got a stella 6000hg beautiful reel but ive seen two separate stellas where the line roller jammed mid fight. These new saltigas however are next level.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Wow! That is crazy! I have heard from both sides that the bail can flip during cast but haven’t had that issue. Really curious to see how this reel holds up? Hopefully next Stella is even better. Thanks!

[@kamadowoah4584]

@@lowkeyfrankd is there definitely a new stella? I've only heard of new twin power on its way.

[@kamadowoah4584]

These 6k saltigas have an effortless power to them that makes them so nice to use. the least 'clunky' reel I've ever spun if that makes sense. Its like a luxury car no one needs it but you can appreciate the quality of the product

[@samasim3944]

Both are great however... Functionality Daiwa: Saltiga drag systems put out more drag than Shimano however that can lead to internal issues like antireverse issues. Better smoothness but doesn't last out of the box after use. Phenomonal looks! superior waterproofing technology with Meagseal Shimano: Stella superior antireverse, superior gearing. Roller bearing issues, better price. Servicing Daiwa: Service department is shocking and can be unhelpful and really long turnover Shimano: Superior service department and customer service. Quick turnover Self maintenance Daiwa: Very difficult as you actually need to purchase the tool from Daiwa to open up the MQ body... Shimano: Easy self maintenance. Daiwa had the edge over Shimano especially with Shimano marketing setbacks and lies with the old Stella. However now Shimano is slowly taking the lead. Daiwa also marketing setbacks and lies with baitcaster reels, more and more people feeling Daiwa is a rip off compared to Shimano. Shimano will make the same Reel Daiwa makes for less cost. Daiwa exist $1000 Shimano vanquish $600 Daiwa Saltiga jigger $999 Shimano Ocea LD $650 Shimano really has Daiwa against the ropes and if Daiwa doesn't improve their servicing department and lower their costs then they will surely have issues. Already seeing tackle shops here in Australia either dropping Daiwa or going from a ratio of 80% Daiwa reels /20% Shimano reels down to 60% Daiwa reels / 40% Shimano reels in their stores.

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Wow, that is super interesting information. I have heard from multiple people that shimano has better customer service. I also heard from 2 people that said the saltiga bail can prematurely flip during cast. One person said that it can happen with the Stella. I have never had this issue with any reel before. I also agree that shimano offers some great deals on cheaper models. The Stradic 5k is probably my favorite reel thus far and under 250. The shimano saragosa is another workhorse for the price. Shimano has so many more spinning models to choose from. But wow Daiwa did an amazing job marketing the Saltiga. I am very impressed with the work they put in. I do think that the next Stella SW will be amazing but no details have been released yet. Thanks for all of the feedback! 🤙🏼

[@samasim3944]

@@lowkeyfrankd Thanks for your understanding it can be annoying when giving feedback and then being labelled a fan girl by Shimano or Daiwa enthusiasts, they don't realise it's not about being a fangirl it's more about not falling for marketing strategies from tackle companies and actually getting what you paid for. Shimano has lied in the past especially with the old Stellas. I believe they lied about the max drag settings and also the 30000 had issues with the spools being too top heavy and actually warped and some reels full buckled, the whole shaft bent when they were on to fish serious fish. Daiwa has just been caught lying about their spool diameters and inertia. I believe in the 24 tatula and in other bait casters. The only thing I've experienced with the Saragossa is that it's prone to having roller bearing issues.. They will probably fix this in the new Saragossa making it another powerful tool in the Shimano arsenal. I believe Shimano and Daiwa reels are top tier. I absolutely love my Shimano, Daiwa and Megabass reels I just feel like Shimano and Daiwa both can still improve in some areas. Feedback doesn't always necessarily mean something is crap or you hate something. It's the constructive criticism and feedback that tackle companies should take into account in the long run that benefits the fishermen and improves the quality of fishing. I have a feeling that the new SW would be a real power horse and I have a feeling that the Stella FK will be getting a major upgrade as they might incorporate all the good technology they put in the 23 vanquish.

[@ShinkiZer0]

​@samasim3944 How are gears better in shimano please explain? Is there wiggle or knocking in saltigas? Isnt Vanquish vs Airity? Whats a Saltiga jigger? I really wish they make a bigger size saltiga H SJ. Daiwa JDM are more frequently on discount sale vs shimano jdms. But i agree if i were to fish pelagics i wud pick up a stella due its superior drag system imo. Not drag power. Tbh i think Daiwa is catching up there putting more pressure on shimanos which is very good for us consumers. Im hoping Daiwa will make a Saltiga 6000p and ill be sold.

[@samasim3944]

@@ShinkiZer0 Daiwa has been on top for a while actually, Shimano is gaining traction on Daiwa. Shimano Is cheaper and will do the same Job a Daiwa will. For starters Shimano doesn't only make gears for fishing reels, due to their reliability they are renowned for making gears for the best bicycles in the world. I do also believe Shimano has been asked to make gears for various other industries. That is true but not in terms of parts. Shimano customs are again cheaper and it's also cheaper to deck a Shimano reel out with Shimano yumeya customs than it is to deck out a Daiwa will SLP works customs. The yumeya customs work better than SLP works. I have a Cardiff 18 fully decked with yumeya bamboo customs. The knob spins longer than any other customs even tested against cetate and Saltiga SLP works customs knob and gomexus. Yes definitely can find more Daiwa customs online. I own a megabass gaus30x... That reel was a big reason why I believed Daiwa was way ahead of Shimano. In fact it's the reason why I went and purchased a saltist and Saltiga dog fight however after 8 years of almost everyday use I've had to service the megabass for a second time and fortunately Ive managed to get the last antireverse. Although I would have to buy a used one on eBay which would cost me more than USD$2000 that is if I am lucky to find one if anything happened to it so I have retired it. If Daiwa improves their antireverse issues and their service department even supply the tool to open the MQ body for self maintenance and they lower the cost of reels to beat Shimano... Another issue Daiwa enthusiasts are finding is that Daiwa is removing magseal from their Airitys and Exists to makes them lighter which Daiwa are charging its enthusiasts more for less essentially... They are really brilliant with their marketing... That's also why people are finding Daiwa smoothness out of the box not the same after use or after their first service! I've already seen problems with the new exists and Airitys. Especially roller bearing issues.The original Airitys are better than the new Airitys but don't compare to the luvias and I've heard that the newer versions come with Chinese parts and are partially assembled in china.. I'd rather the old exists that had magseal on their roller bearing! No Daiwa bfs reels compares to The Shimano vanquish really. They need to make a reel similar to the Daiwa 18 presso limited. But with superior start stop inertia to Vanquish. I wish Shimano would make the start stop inertia of their next vanquish better than the 19 vanquish, that slower oscillation and line management technology is phenomenal but they lost a little smoothness and start stop capabilities in doing so but still beats and Airitys and Exists by miles. If Daiwa improves their start stop inertia it will be in their favour.

[@DrJanLindberg]

@@samasim3944Sadly Shimano for years put some cheaper parts in their export reels, and left the best quality for the domestic Japanese market. Not so with Daiwa.

[@fisherman1353]

Stella has better gear and easier for maintenance

[@lowkeyfrankd]

I really wanted both to do a side by side. I heard Stella easier to service. I’m thinking the next Stella will be even better 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@stripervince1]

Saltiga way better. The stella has 3x the parts inside. Lots of smalll plastic parts. Not in the daiwa

[@ElvisPriscillaPresley]

I like the Saltiga and fished my brothers, nice, but i'm a Shimano man, and I'll buy the new stella...just like, you're either apple or android 😎

[@lowkeyfrankd]

Exactly! I’ll always get the new iPhone regardless of if a new company comes out that is even better. Kinda like my grandfather only bought Chevy trucks. I’m also a shimano man but was genuinely curious and wanted to have a channel that tests all brands. But I think next Stella will be amazing! Thanks!