Stella FK reaches new heights of excellence

When Shimano said it had reached new heights of excellence with its ‘ultimate’ spinning reel – the Stella FK – we believed it. And now anglers across the world have confirmed that claim by voting the FK their No.1 spinning or baitcasting product of 2022. Yes, Shimano can add a first-ever EFTTEX Angler’s Choice award to its list of achievements, and its European team as its base in the Netherlands could not be happier.

“It is an absolute honour,” said Tim Bouwens, Shimano’s Marketing Team Lead (Fishing) when EFTTEX and Tacklestream broke the news to him. “Winning these awards given by anglers shows that our products deliver to their expectations and it pushes us to continue to create innovative products in the future. The Stella is our flagship model and throughout its history it has brought new technologies and features to the market. Recognition in the Angler’s Choice Awards is very much appreciated.”

And if you need reminding of the sheer technological excellence that won the Stella FK so many votes from anglers, here’s what you need to know. “It delivers unparalleled performance for anglers who want the best,” says the company. “If you are the type of angler who wants the very best without compromise, the latest version of the Stella is for you.”

Building on its iconic status, the Stella has been through an evolutionary redesign with a range of new technologies. “The developments are a work of engineering genius and touch just about every part of the reel, including gearing, line management and drag.

“They are developments that will make anglers’ fishing more efficient, effective and ultimately more enjoyable. We call it Infinity Evolution.”

Infinity features include:

• InfinityXross for a more durable gear construction than the highly acclaimed HAGANE gear. This offers more durability, especially when under extreme pressure, resulting in the increased lifespan of the reel.
• InfinityLoop which is an ultra-slow spool oscillation with improved line lay. This reduces line friction when casting, giving better casting performance.
• InfinityDrive which produces powerful yet lightweight rotation, especially under heavy loads. In extreme situations, you can still maintain constant, consistent cranking pressure.

For trouble-free line management, a completely new feature called Anti-Twist Fin has been developed that controls the pressure on the line that goes through the line roller onto the spool. And if all of that isn’t enough, there is a new drag system called Duracross which offers improved drag smoothness, durability and hooking power.

The Stella is available in 12 models to cover all uses and preferences and is also saltwater safe.

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