Shimano Speedmaster II 16 Lever Drag
- £257.99
- (FREE UK Delivery)
- RRP £284.88
- Built for the Fight: The rugged Hagane body and S-Compact design deliver lightweight strength where it counts.
- Dominate Every Scenario: Switch from a fast 5.7:1 high gear to a powerful 3.1:1 low gear without missing a beat.
- Drag You Can Trust: The Cross Carbon lever drag system ensures buttery-smooth, consistent pressure up to 18kg (40lb), with an alternative lever included for mono.
- Engineered Smoothness: Machined gearing and 4 ball bearings provide flawless, reliable performance.
- Loaded for Big Game: Massive line capacity (440yds of 20lb nylon or 750yds of 50lb braid) means you’re ready for long runs.
- Thoughtful Design: Features like a line-out alarm, comfortable handle knob, and an included rod clamp complete this serious tool. Weight: 750g.
The Shimano Speedmaster II 16 Lever Drag: A Compact Powerhouse
In the world of offshore fishing reels, finding the perfect balance between rugged power, practical features, and sensible price can be a challenge. The Shimano Speedmaster II 16 two-speed lever drag reel sits in a sweet spot that many anglers search for. It's a compact, mid-priced workhorse built with the serious fisherman in mind, offering performance-focused features typically found on more expensive models. Designed for heavy bottom fishing, wrecking, and light to medium trolling, this reel punches well above its weight, making it a top choice for anglers targeting powerful species around the UK and European coasts without needing to invest in top-tier game fishing gear.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
| Feature | Specification / Detail | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 5.7:1 (High) / 3.1:1 (Low) | Wreck fishing for cod & pollack, heavy bottom fishing for conger & tope, light trolling. |
| Max Drag | 15-18 kg (approx. 33-40 lb) | |
| Weight | ~750 grams | All-day fishing comfort on a 20-30lb class boat rod. |
| Line Capacity (20lb Mono) | ~440 yards | Deep water marks and long runs from powerful fish. |
| Key Feature | Two-Speed Gearbox & Hagane Body | Giving you a fighting advantage over large, stubborn fish. |
Unpacking the Build: Specs That Matter
Let's break down what the numbers on the box really mean for your fishing. The Shimano Speedmaster II 16 is built around a robust aluminium and magnesium frame, which Shimano calls their Hagane body. This isn't just marketing talk. On the water, this translates to a reel that twists and flexes far less when a big fish is trying to pull it apart. Keeping the frame rigid means the gears inside stay perfectly meshed, giving you reliable power transfer when you need it most.
- Weight & Balance: At around 750 grams, it's substantial enough to feel solid but won't fatigue your arm during a long day of boat fishing. It pairs perfectly with modern boat rods in the 20-30lb class.
- Gear Ratios Explained: The 5.7:1 high gear is perfect for quickly winding in slack line or working a lure. The 3.1:1 low gear is your winch mode, providing immense cranking power to lift heavy fish from deep wrecks or the seabed.
- Drag Power: With an advertised maximum drag of up to 18kg (40lb), you have a huge range of adjustment. In practice, a smooth, usable 10-15kg of drag is more than enough to subdue most UK and European sport fish.
Hagane Body & Shielded Bearings: Built for the Fight
The engineering inside this reel is where it really separates itself from cheaper alternatives. The Hagane body construction is a hallmark of Shimano's better reels. I've seen reels with flexible frames literally bend under extreme pressure, causing the gears to jump and fail. This design prevents that. Coupled with this are S-ARB (Shielded Anti-Rust Bearings). These aren't your standard open bearings that invite salt and grit; they are shielded to keep contamination out, significantly extending the reel's life with basic care. This makes the Speedmaster II a genuine saltwater reel, built for regular use, not just the occasional holiday trip.
The Two-Speed Advantage: When to Shift Gears
For many anglers new to two-speed reels, the question is always: "When do I use it?" The answer is simpler than you think. Use high gear (5.7:1) for all your normal fishing: retrieving bait, winding down to a fish, or working a lure. The moment you feel you're losing leverage—when a big conger digs into a wreck, a tope makes a powerful run, or you're trying to lift a stubborn cod from 60 meters—that's when you thumb the button and shift down.
The low gear (3.1:1) gives you more torque. It makes the handle easier to turn under heavy load, letting you pump and wind efficiently. It's not about winding faster; it's about winding smarter and with less effort. This feature alone can save the day on a tough fight and is a cornerstone of effective Norway fishing for large species.
Smooth Power: Understanding the Drag System
The lever drag on the Speedmaster II is straightforward and effective. A common mistake is to "set and forget" the drag. Here's a better approach from experience:
- Strike Setting: Set this before you cast. A good rule is 25-30% of your line's breaking strain. For 30lb braid, that's about 7.5-9lb of drag.
- Fighting the Fish: You can smoothly increase drag during the fight by pushing the lever forward. Do this gradually as the fish tires.
- Full Lock: Only use the maximum setting to stop a fish from reaching a snag, or for the final lift. The beauty of this system is its smoothness throughout the range, preventing sudden jerks that can break lines.
Line Capacity and Practical Setup Suggestions
The stated capacity of roughly 440 yards of 20lb monofilament is generous. However, most serious anglers today use braid for its sensitivity and lack of stretch. A more practical and powerful setup would be:
- Backing: 300 yards of 50-65lb braid. This gives you immense strength and capacity.
- Topshot: 100-150 yards of 30-40lb monofilament or fluorocarbon. This provides abrasion resistance and some shock absorption.
- Leader: A section of 60-100lb fluorocarbon or mono for species like conger or ling that have abrasive mouths.
This combination, available from our selection of sea fishing tackle, maximises the reel's potential for deep water wrecking and bottom fishing.
On the Water: Target Species and Techniques
This reel excels in specific UK and European fishing scenarios. It's not a light inshore reel, nor is it a heavy-duty tuna reel. It's perfectly suited for:
- Wreck Fishing: For double-figure pollack and cod. The low gear helps winch them away from the snags.
- Conger & Tope: The smooth drag and robust frame handle the powerful, dogged runs of these species.
- Deep Water Ling & Haddock: Perfect for productive, but heavy, Norway reel fishing styles.
- Light Trolling: Ideal for mackerel, small tuna, or kingfish when travelling abroad.
Balancing Act: Choosing the Right Rod
A great reel needs a great rod. For the Speedmaster II 16, you want a boat rod rated between 20-50lb. The action should be through-action or fast-taper, around 6.5 to 7 feet in length. This rod will load up correctly under the reel's drag, helping you fight the fish without relying solely on your back. A well-balanced combo feels like an extension of your arm. You can explore suitable rods in our boat fishing tackle section.
Routine Care: Keeping Your Reel in Top Condition
Saltwater is the enemy of all fishing reels. A simple routine will keep your Speedmaster II performing for years:
- After Every Trip: Rinse the reel gently under a slow tap of lukewarm water. Do not use a high-pressure hose.
- Dry It: Wipe it down with a soft cloth and let it air dry with the drag backed off completely.
- Annual Service: Once a season, or after 10-15 heavy trips, it should be professionally serviced or carefully serviced at home if you're confident. This includes regreasing gears and checking bearings.
For all your servicing needs and a full range of fishing reels, we have the expertise and parts to help.
Comparing the Class: Speedmaster II vs. Others
How does it stack up against the competition? Let's look at the data.
| Reel Model | Approx. Weight | Max Drag | Gear System | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shimano Speedmaster II 16 | ~750g | ~15-18kg | Two-Speed (5.7:1 / 3.1:1) | Heavy bottom, wrecking, light trolling (Best value 2-speed) |
| Shimano Talica 16 II | ~650g | ~20kg+ | Two-Speed | Higher-end jigging/trolling (Lighter, more refined, more expensive) |
| Generic 20-30lb Star Drag | ~700g | ~10-12kg | Single Speed (~6:1) | General boat fishing (Less drag power, no low-gear advantage) |
The Expert’s Verdict: Who Should Buy This Reel?
The Shimano Speedmaster II 16 is for the angler who needs serious offshore capability without a game-fishing budget. If you're stepping up from single-speed star drag reels and want the tactical advantage of a two-speed gearbox, a smoother lever drag, and a tougher build for wreck, reef, and bottom fishing, this reel is an outstanding choice. It delivers most of the on-water performance of reels like the Shimano Talica for significantly less money, accepting only minor trade-offs in finish and weight. It's a true workhorse that won't let you down when a big fish is on. Browse our full collection of sea fishing reels to find the perfect match for your style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Speedmaster II 16 suitable for a beginner?
A: While it's straightforward to use, its power and features are best appreciated by an angler with some boat fishing experience who is targeting larger species. A beginner might find a simpler star drag reel easier to start with.
Q: Can I use this reel for shark fishing?
A: For small to medium blue or porbeagle sharks from a boat in UK waters, it can be adequate with heavy line (50lb+). However, for dedicated sharking, a larger reel with more line capacity and harness lugs is recommended.
Q: What is the main difference between this and the more expensive Talica?
A: The Talica is lighter, has a more refined drag with additional carbon washers, uses higher-grade materials and machining, and often has a smoother gear feel. The Speedmaster II offers the core two-speed performance in a slightly heavier, more cost-effective package.
Q: How often should I get it serviced?
A: For occasional use (under 10 trips a year), a professional service every other year is fine. For regular, hard use in saltwater, an annual service is a wise investment to ensure longevity.
Q: Can I cast lures with this lever drag reel?
A> Yes, you can. While not as free-spinning as a dedicated casting reel, the bearing-supported spool allows for pitching lures or dropping baits downtide effectively. Just remember to ensure the drag is in 'free spool' and use your thumb to control the line.