REEL SHOOTOUT: Unboxing & Comparing Shimano's Vanford & Stradic 1000-size Spinning Reels

[@StarloGetsReel]

If you enjoy this video and my channel, please consider shouting me a beer (or buying me a coffee) so I can continue producing worthwhile content like this for YOU! To do so, simply go to: www.buymeacoffee.com/starlo

[@diegorico9321]

I have been torn for a week on which one to get, looking at videos and such. This is by far the best video I’ve seen not only relating to the reels but overall exhibits superior quality for the fishing community.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks for those kind words! Glad you liked it.

[@AndrewFishman]

Thanks mate. I have been eyeing the Vanford, I love my Stradics, a 1000 1.5 UL and a 2500, 6 lb for small lure casting and worm drowning. Nice to have some more information to go on with. Your review of a certain reel led me to choosing my first baitcasting reel. An article you wrote for FWF back in the early 90s, from memory it was something like "The great Baitcaster Shootout", led me to buying an Abu 2500 C. That reel was put aside, not retired, about 3 years ago (I am using it in a lot of my early videos lol) after catching just about everything with fins in this country over the next 30 odd years. Once I have it properly serviced and get a few bits replaced, like drag washers, it will be back in play ;) Thanks for the recommendation. So your reel reviews have always meant a heck of a lot since then. You were spot on the money. I finally got the Shimano Calcutta which was your other choice back then, from memory. Maybe that was Buschy. I should dig out the old mags and take a read. You had a couple of great articles in the old magazines. Thanks for your efforts over the years to educate us, mate. I, for one, appreciate it and have learned to go from dangler to proficient angler with your kind assistance.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks for those very kind words, Andrew. It gets harder for an older bloke like me to stay current and relevant, but I do try. It's nice to know the effort is appreciated. 👍

[@HanginOffThaReel]

Mate, I'm 23 and love your content, Starlo! Real value in the content, delivered in a pleasing and intentful manner. It's not only the older blokes that find it hard to stay relevant today, as a young man I find it's hard to do so without sacrificing a little piece of yourself as well 🙂 So it's good news we're not mainstream! Though, it would be lovely if more could be in tune with this kind of genuine content. Cheers @StarloGetsReel! All the best! EDIT: So yes! We appreciate it Starlo!! 😄

[@needmoreboost6369]

Mate this is just what I’ve been looking for! I’m in need of a new 1000 and it’s these two that have been at the top of my list. perfect timing! Why is it only now I’ve found your channel your literature kept me entertained and educated for years!

[@StarloGetsReel]

Glad I could help! Spread the word about the channe! ;)

[@Pickendi]

I have the Vanford 1000 and it is an awesome reel. I also have the sustain 1000 and compared to that you can feel the weight difference. Like yourself, always switch to the left hand side to crank.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Good stuff, Pickendi!

[@jd_nunez]

What an awesome video! Love the energy and detailed review. Cheers

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks!

[@kundetjenesten]

I agree; a 1000 reel and a 2-12 gram 8 ft rod is such a sweet combo! I have a few Shimano reels in 2500-4000 sizes, but in 1000 I have usedthe same old Abu Garcia ProMax. It feels grainy, heavy for the size and nothing fancy at all. But it has survived inshore fishing for years and years. Yes, inshore with a 2-12g rod and 1000 reel! 😂

[@StarloGetsReel]

Nice!

[@Chickenpantz]

Still rocking my Stradic 1000 ci4 since 2019, everything from 62cm bream to 80cm shovelnose, brilliant little setups, when it breaks im for sure buying a vanford

[@StarloGetsReel]

Good stuff! You'll like the Vanfords.

[@Chickenpantz]

@@StarloGetsReel Actually just bought the vanford 1000 last week, mighty step-up, loving every minute!

[@encikkill]

you paired it with what rod may i ask

[@AliGfishing]

When i got my vanford i was scratching my head at what those clear tape strips were for, i believe you nailed it on the head. Brilliant outside the box thinking, well at least i an PNW american fisherman would think so. Great comparison, i think ill stick with my vanford

[@StarloGetsReel]

Great reels. 👍

[@robbiefishing]

Excellent video. So much information in such a short time. I have a 2500 Vanford and love it. I would have gone the 1000 but I wanted a 6:1 gear ratio for faster retrieve speed.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks Robbie. Yes, faster retrieve speeds and greater cranking power can certainly be handy in many applications.

[@dang.fishing]

I have been a big fan of the Shimano range of reels. I currently own a 3000 ci4+, 2500 ci4+, Vanford 2500 for fishing I do up here in QLD and recently moved on a 1000 ci4+. Never had an issue with them and will be staying with Shimano for a while! Great quality video starlo!

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks DANG!

[@geoffhonky4439]

My next reel will be one of these. I've never had the pleasure of a decent shimano reel. I've tried a couple of the "D" brand reels around the $150 range but always seem to quickly put my okuma ceymar hd 1000 back on. Thanks for all your vids and info, it's greatly appreciated 👍

[@StarloGetsReel]

No worries! 👍

[@jeffnaval4894]

I owned both stradic FL and shimano Vanford. The big difference is Stradic can get splashed with saltwater wave and still perform like a brand new. But Vanford nah. I only use vanford when fishing on the inlet/jetty.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@joonasantikainen]

Thanks for great review. I've been considering a Vanford 1000 and now waiting if it would pop up in Black Friday sale somewhere. I currently have the Sahara 500 reel with my LRF rod. I mostly catch perch here in Finland but from time to time bigger catch such as Zander and Northern Pike is eating my bait and that's when the 500 Sahara is at it's limits. I started fishing only 1,5 years ago but I can see that in this short time I've been getting more and more fishing gear :D

[@rockymountainlockpicker9606]

I just replaced my lost ultegra with a static fl that was on a clearance sale. That ultegra was an amazing reel. Opted for the stradic fl only because I was curious to try an aluminum body reel

[@StarloGetsReel]

Hope you like it. 👍

[@simonbrownportfolio]

Great review thanks I have owned a few Stradics but very curious about the Vanford for LRF. I'm not sure LRF needs such a high spec reel but let's not kid ourselves sometimes its all about owning a nice bit of kit that feels quality. 😁

[@StarloGetsReel]

For sure. 👍

[@David-sb7vg]

Totally agree with the left hand wind for a right hander. I’ve got an Aernos 1000FB Steve. Teamed with a Lure Project ‘Vibe’ rod ❤ Too good to use really 😂

[@StarloGetsReel]

Nice!

[@jordythebassist]

Absolutely love my 1000 size reels! I used to have the Stradic ci4+ in 1000 and 3000 sizes but was let down by both of them really badly, I bought a 1000 Vanford but didn't feel any more inspired by it as it kind of felt like a Stradic ci4+ with a facelift. Having said that I had no issues with the Vanford in the short time I had it I've since bought an older model Stella and it feels sublime, if I have issues with that then I'll give up on 1000 size reels altogether probably 😩

[@StarloGetsReel]

Sorry to hear you had problems with your Ci4+ reels. Mine have never missed a beat. I love 'em.

[@jordythebassist]

@@StarloGetsReel thanks Steve, what was kinda sad is if I hadn't had the issues I did then I would probably still have those reels. The Stradics are fantastic reels for sure when their line roller bearings or gears weren't blowing up on me 😬

[@alleycat8483]

Own 3 stradics starlo and 1 is 15 years old and still smooth as, also have an 11 year old Diawa sol that is still good, always favoured Shimano but my step son has a Diawa revelry and gosh its good..

[@StarloGetsReel]

I think they both make pretty good reels, but I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Shimano man, I'm afraid. It's a bit of a Holden/Ford thing, 😉

[@HippieMagic]

I like size 1000 reels enough that I went and bought a Stella 1000. It’s basically the perfect size for most freshwater fish. Also I believe the tabs are to put on your reel seat “feet” to protect it from metal reel seats… otherwise it scratches the reel up… ask me how I know 😂

[@DionisisChei]

Noooooo

[@HippieMagic]

@@DionisisChei I asked Shimano. It’s for protecting the rod from the reel feet apparently.

[@DionisisChei]

@@HippieMagic Iook I fish for lrf if you know the best slow reel is vanford 1000

[@HippieMagic]

@@DionisisChei the Stella is worlds better than the Vanford. I have both and it’s just not close. The vanquish is closer to the Vanford if you want the same weight while still feeling good but I still prefer the Stella because it’s a heavier reel and helps with the more tip heavy rods.

[@adamvvs2644]

2 very good reels How exciting

[@StarloGetsReel]

True!

[@tims_always_fishing7117]

I just bought the 3000xg stratic from American legacy fishing, 145$ used mint condition with box, threw it on a dobyns fury for now till I get my zodias or curado. A.l.f is the best!!!

[@StarloGetsReel]

Nice!

[@redtobertshateshandles]

My Stradic FI collection from 1000 up to 8000 came with spare spools. I rinse , dry and lube them after EVERY use in Saltwater. If I lure fished for bream regularly I might upgrade to lighter reels but the old reels keep working for me.

[@StarloGetsReel]

If it ain't broke...

[@tomwiggins1225]

I didn't get spares pools with mine what's up with that

[@StarloGetsReel]

@@tomwiggins1225 I reckon it'd be 10 years or more since I got a spare spool with a new reel. They just don't do it any more, unfortunately.

[@ronmb81]

Got a C3000 Vanford, and it was that good I also got a 1000 and a C5000. Great reels for the money 👍🏼

[@StarloGetsReel]

I agree! I've got a 2500 as well.

[@philipfalco7304]

Great video Stario! I have the Stradic in the 1000 size and the Vanford in the 2000 size. I love them both. Great reel's for sure! I only own 3 reels in the 1000 size: The Stradic, Stella fj, and a Tatula although I do prefer the Shimano's 2000 size reels like the Vanford and Vanquish for double duty for Trout - Bass.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks! Good choices!

[@keithprinn720]

I wind left hand like you on these light rigs. still using really old daiwa and some shimano baitrunners discontinued decades ago.

[@johnloxley8705]

good afternoon from myself, here in the north east of the uk …… sorry i’m a bit late to the comments party but was looking at getting a pair new reels as i’ve had my shimano ci4+’s now since they came out ….. love the video and agree the vanfords do look better … i have quite a lot of red and black ul spinning rods too so they would match perfectly ,,, not as if they catch more fish but if you’re spending a bit of money you want them to look the part don’t ya …… when i watch your video your one of them blokes you know you would love to bump into on the river bank and you seem a very happy fisherman 👍👍😁😁🎣🎣……. love the hat by the way and wonder if they do a red and black one with the camo look 🤣🤣….. cracking video and very helpful too .. all the best buddy and enjoy your fishing 👍😁🎣

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks so much for that great feedback! Make sure you check out the newest Vanford A series - about to be released here in Oz. Very nice!

[@johnloxley8705]

@@StarloGetsReel i most certainly will and just subscribed 👍😁🎣

[@kman4310]

Hi mate , I would love to see a three way shoot out between sedona,nasci and freams reels. All are around the same price 2nd hand. I would like to see what you think is the better reel. Cheers.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Interesting idea, but I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Shimano man, so they'd only be shootouts between Shimano models. Sorry.

[@kman4310]

@@StarloGetsReel o.k we can leave the freams out.

[@martindekorte6732]

Good video Starlo 👌 I have 2 1000 size Vanford reels on my light outfits and absolutely love them , last year I landed a 2.8 kilo salmon on one of them attached to a 1 to 3 kg rod that weighs 78 grams without much of a problem .

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks Martin! Wow, that salmon would’ve given you some! 👍

[@bbrennan0013]

Another great video Starlo! I too love the 1000 size reels. I think that one paired with a ultra light or light action rod from 6'6 to 7'2 in the 1-3 and 2-4 weight class makes the best combos! It would be great if when you do the next video about the performance of these two reels you tell un what Shimano rods you have them paired up with. Tight lines mate...

[@StarloGetsReel]

Absolutely! Thanks for the positive feedback, too. 👍👍👍

[@theshepherd4633]

Nice video. As a fan of Shimano products, I was disappointed that they did not include the HG in the Vanford 1000. It was, however, included in the discontinued CI14+.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks for that. Yes, an HG option would be good!

[@stevennaumovski8477]

Great review Starlo These videos are awesome.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. 👍

[@larrylad44larry5]

Great video thanks for all the information xxx

[@StarloGetsReel]

No probs!

[@rickmanfly]

I really loved your video. Actually I am looking for information to choose between Vanford and Stradic for very light saltwater.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Glad you enjoyed it! Both great reels.

[@TheTomcat1979]

Great review Starlo! I also lean towards the vanford! Love you comment in regards to 5G! :) I noticed you had the vanford attached to a poison adrena! Great rods they are!

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks!

[@normanmendonca2834]

Good day Mate, I have to say I love how down to earth your show is. I. An always expect an honest opinion what ever you review. Your years for wisdom, in matched experience and knowledge, make choices fairly easy for me and I think you for that. I am looking for a surf reel , I don’t do a lot of surf fishing but I want it for Jew fish and other fish including the bread and butter types. What do suggest mate. I know you will have a few suggestions. I look forward to your reply and just want to add, I love your work. Thank you Mate. Nor Moe.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks for your great feedback! I really appreciate it. I guess a lot depends on how much you want to spend, but I'd have a good look at the Shimano SpeedMaster XTC 14000 if you want a large-ish but reasonably light surf reel capable of handling jewies, gummy sharks, etc. Should find one for about $300 if you shop around. Next step up would be the Shimano Ultergra Ci4 XTC which comes in two sizes and will set you back a bit over $400. Other options from Shimano would be the Thunnus and Saragosa ranges. If you're on a tight budget, don't rule out the Aerlex XSB 10 000 either... it's a lot of reel for around $150! Tight Lines.

[@anthonystokes9794]

Wow a 10 year warranty. Shimano only has a 1 year warranty in the USA. Maybe, they know how rough Americans are on their fishing gear

[@StarloGetsReel]

Yes, it's a good warranty!

[@michaelbandeko3519]

I prefer the 2000HGF Vanford to the 1000F. Get a bit more line capacity and retieve with the same weight reel. I have both Stradics and Vanfords in both sizes.

[@StarloGetsReel]

I wasn’t aware of a 2000. They’re not in the Australian line up. We have the 1000 and the 2500, but the 2500 is a bigger reel and weighs 30 grams more at 180g than the 1000 (150g).

[@michaelbandeko3519]

@@StarloGetsReel Strange, I figured you guys down under had access to the same gear we have in the states.

[@StarloGetsReel]

@@michaelbandeko3519 no, not always, unfortunately.

[@lcg79]

I believe the clear plastic is a rash guard to protect the reel from scratches while in a rod holder. Love the classic and simple look of the Stradic FL, had my 2500 since they were introduced with zero issues. Super smooth drag and solid.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Thanks Luke, and good to hear yet another theory on the mystery clear plastic thingies! 👍

[@LayerZeroDesign]

I feel like there is no point to getting a 1000 size spinning reel when the c2000 reels are an option from shimano. Its the same 1000 size body so you get the same footprint on the rod but you get a 2000 size spool with the option of putting a 1000 size spool on it if you ever really just wanted less line.

[@StarloGetsReel]

We only see 1000s and 2500s in Australia and they're quite different in physical size.

[@jasonsfishingagain312]

If I remember correctly, the clear tab was meant to protect the frame gear cap to protect it from scrapes.

[@StarloGetsReel]

Could be! It's as good as any of the other theories I've heard... What's the frame gear cap, by the way?

[@jasonsfishingagain312]

@@StarloGetsReel the chrome cover over the pinion support on the bottom rear.

[@StarloGetsReel]

@@jasonsfishingagain312 ah! Right. Figured that was what you meant. Makes sense. 👍

[@alexp7824]

Whats a 1000 good for

[@StarloGetsReel]

Any light line application: bream, whiting, trout, perch, etc.

[@StarloGetsReel]

@@smp5343 yep, although the "rules" in fishing are pretty flexible. 🙂

[@philipfalco7304]

Trout, Panfish and Ice fishing.

[@itanamullik]

I personally always loved small reels my whole life, but 1000s for me are just unusable. I bought one 1000 a few years ago and after the day I bought it and tested it have never took it from its box again... 2500 is perfect for ultra light for me

[@StarloGetsReel]

That’s a shame. In what way “unusable”? I own several, use them almost every time I fish and love them. If you truly hate yours that much I’m sure there’d be plenty of fishos out there willing to take it off your hands at the right price. 😉

[@philliplawson2932]

Both great reels but the Vanford is over an ounce lighter!

[@StarloGetsReel]

Spot on.

[@cristianoreisdacosta]

Are these spools interchangeable?

[@jasonleedham5678]

Just bought a Vanford 3000, and its lighter than the 1000 stradic.....its crazy light

[@StarloGetsReel]

They're lovely reels.

[@hejgoranfesdu]

2 vanfords gfor me broken down afrer one year my stradics still goin.. vanford is to wikmpy

[@StarloGetsReel]

Wow, you must be hard on your gear! My Vanfords are still going strong after a year-plus of pretty regular use. Can I ask what actually broke?

[@hejgoranfesdu]

@@StarloGetsReel fishibg Every Day 350 days of a year. Lineroller bearings goes fast but in Sweden THEy Cost 2 dollar. My gears inside are fresh but rotor wobbled. THE reel feels like a bad balkistic lt

[@56igadget]

You should learn how to read instructions. It will tell you to use that sticker to secure the line to the spool. Braid likes to slip.

[@StarloGetsReel]

;)

[@666mills666]

The clear stickers go on your line once you've tied you're anchor knot to the real. It literally says it in the manual 🤣

[@StarloGetsReel]

There ya go!

[@LayerZeroDesign]

This is almost word for word what I was just coming down here to type lol... Especially the "it's literally in the manual" part haha

[@666mills666]

@@LayerZeroDesign I just assumed this was common knowledge. Apparently everyone's a fucken spanner these days 🤣