Skip to footer
This Item Ships For Free!
Shop All Shimano

Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel

This Item Ships For Free!
Shop All Shimano

Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel

Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 150HG
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 150HG
Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 150
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 150
Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 150XG
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 150XG
Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 151
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 151
Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 151HG
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 151HG
Shimano SLX XT Casting Reel 151XG
In Stock: 5+
Price: $129.99
  • Shimano Casting Reel Size: 151XG
Note: This item is not available for order outside of the United States.

Free return shipping is available for all orders shipped within the 48 contiguous United States. These orders will include a complimentary pre-paid UPS Ground return label in the box when the order is delivered. If you use the pre-paid return label provided, please allow 7-10 business days for the return package to arrive back at Tackle Warehouse.

Orders shipped to international, APO/FPO, Alaskan or Hawaiian addresses or U.S. territories are not eligible for the free return shipping offer. Drop Ship and Oversized Items are not eligible for the free return shipping offer.

Please use our Returns & Exchange form found on the back of your printed invoice. If you don't have your original invoice you can download our Tackle Warehouse Return Form.

Contact us with any questions or concerns!

Phone: 1.800.300.4916
Email: info@tacklewarehouse.com

Tackle Warehouse wants you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned at any point in new condition within 365-days of the original invoice date.

Products returned in new, store-bought condition are eligible for exchange, refund, or Tackle Warehouse store credit for the full value of your purchase.

Please note that while we want you to be happy with your purchases, an excessive number of returns within a twelve-month period may limit your eligibility for refund or store credit.

Products returned beyond 365-days from the original invoice date or that are unable to be returned to stock may be eligible for store credit at the sole discretion of Tackle Warehouse.

Original shipping charges are non-refundable.

Used baits & tackle are not eligible for return.

Phone: 1.800.300.4916
Email: info@tacklewarehouse.com

Overview

Redesigned and backed by a number key improvements, the Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel takes the winning performance of the SLX series a step further with a refreshed design that amplifies performance. Housed in a rigid, yet incredibly lightweight HAGANE frame, the Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel features Shimano’s upgraded SVS infinity braking system, which allows anglers to make more subtle adjustments using only the external dial, resulting in extended casting distance with a broader range of lures.

Versatile and compact, the Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel provides anglers with the capacity of a 150-size reel, while maintaining a small, easy to palm construction. Manufactured in Shimano’s own factory, the Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel is powered by brass gearing, which serves to increase smoothness and bolster reliability. Fitted with a long handle and ergonomic grips, the Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel caters to anglers who are looking for a competitive advantage at a great price. 

Features:

-SVS Infinity Braking 
-HAGANE Body
-Brass Gearing
-Versatile and compact – 150-size line capacity, smaller body
-Manufactured in Shimano factory

Specifications

Model Retrieve Gear Ratio Weight Line Cap. Bearings
SLXXT150HG Right 7.2:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now
SLXXT150 Right 6.3:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now
SLXXT150XG Right 8.2:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now
SLXXT151 Left 6.3:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now
SLXXT151HG Left 7.2:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now
SLXXT151XG Left 8.2:1 7.2 12/110, 14/90 4BB + 1RB Buy Now

Specifications

View specs for all models

Videos

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
13 Customer Reviews
4 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Does The JobThis reel is an upgrade for a worn out Citica. I got no complaints so far. Pretty reel
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Xl150Smooth casting great retrieving I love it
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Best Buy for the buckAwesome reel, casts a country mile. Do the price point and Shimano quality, Japanese engineering. Do yourself a favor, if you’re looking to get into baitcasters and have the desire and intention to be amazed by what it can do as a first- timer using a baitcaster, this one’s for you.
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Great ValueBought my first SLX two years back. Liked it so much I bought four more. Found the reels to be a great value for my budget.
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Excellent reel and price pointThis is my 2nd Shimano SLX 150 XT. I bought the first one to throw my glide baits on an 8' rod. The 2nd is to be used on large plastics and crank baits rigged to a Carolina rig. Both reels were matched to Dobyns Fury rods as recommended by Tackle Warehouse and Tactical Bassin". Weight, comfort and ease of adjustment are all perfect. I am an avid kayak (have had a big fast boat) fisherman with 40 + years of experience, mostly largemouth bass. The price is easy enough to afford and I will slowly replace all 6 of my reels with these. Some of my reels are +20 years old.
3 out of 5 Stars
SLX XTIt's a fine reel. The brake adjustability over the SLX is a plus, and it feels smooth, which I'd expect for a reel in this price range. The drag isn't the smoothest though. Comparing to the Tatula CT, the CT is just as smooth, or slightly smoother, and has a better drag on it. If you want to match your Shimano reel to a Shimano rod, this is a good option.
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Shimano SLX XTFantastic reel, I purchased this reel in may of 2020 and after almost 4 years of hard tournament use it has held up great. I have the regular SLX and if your on the fence about spending an extra $30 more for the XT it’s worth it 100% the svs brake system allows me to bomb lures with ease and not have to hardly open the side of the reel up like the SLX A and it feels much smoother, it is just an overall better reel for the money.
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Great reel for the moneyThe SLX 150 XTS Casting Reels cast easy and have a very smooth drag system and you can’t beat the price for the quality you receive in this reel. I have purchased 6 more and will continue to fill my arsenal with more of these moving forward.
5 out of 5 Stars
Shimano SLX 150The best reel for the money out there. Casts like a dream and super smooth. Will definitely be buying more.
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
Casting reelComfortable to hold, smooth casting and retrieving. Very good reel.
4 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
SLXThis is a great value. Casts very well and has a good feel and smooth drag even when locked down.
4 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
SLXThis is a great value . Casts very well has a good feel and smooth drag even when locked down,
5 out of 5 Stars
Would Recommend
So smoothSuch a smooth reel, performs flawlessly when casting crank baits on fluorocarbon line!

Previous Feedback  

Comments: I'm a "cheap" reel guy. Tried "cheap" Lew's, Quantum's, Abu's etc...My third SLX. Casting and retrieve are exceptional and the drag is acceptable in this price range, even better than some of the more expensive reels I have. Best bang for the buck for me.

From: Herb: Burnet, Tx 7/12/23

Comments: Great reel for the money. Smooth and cast great. Easy to tune.

From: Unknown: Alba,Tx. 7/10/23

Comments: Rating: A+++(4/5) Alright, folks, gather 'round and hear my heroic tale of casting into the wild Texan wind with my brand new Shimano SLX 150 XT Casting Reel. Now, let me tell you straight up, this is a damn fine piece of equipment. It feels like King Arthur's Excalibur in my hands, and that's a compliment, my friends. However, let me paint a vivid picture of my first outing. Imagine a beautiful sunny day in the Lone Star state. Birds are singing, and you can feel the anticipation in the air as I prepare to cast my line. In the distance, the wind begins to whisper like it's got a personal vendetta against me. I should've known then, my friends, that this wind was a wild beast from Texas not to be tamed. Here comes the moment of truth. I make my cast, the Shimano sings its siren song, and the line arcs beautifully into the wind... Then chaos! It's a backlash. Not just any backlash, oh no. This was the mother of all backlashes, the kind that makes seasoned anglers wake up in a cold sweat. I'm talking spool spaghetti, folks, a bird's nest that would make a Texan eagle jealous. You see, the Shimano SLX 150 XT, much like a high-maintenance diva, demands the perfect tuning of its brakes. If not, well, I hope you brought along some extra patience because you're going to be untangling for a while. It's like being handed the world's most frustrating puzzle, but instead of a fun picture at the end, you just get a working fishing reel again. The reel is pretty good about holding the line, too. Almost too good, if you ask me. This little beauty will accommodate just a smidgen more line than you might think necessary. It's like a Thanksgiving feast that keeps piling on the plate even though you've clearly said you're full, thank you very much. All in all, the Shimano SLX 150 XT is a fantastic reel, delivering the grace and precision of a ballet dancer. However, it does come with its quirks. If you ever find yourself casting into the wild Texas winds, make sure you've got your brakes dialed in just right, and don't overstuff it like a Thanksgiving turkey. In conclusion, I'm giving this reel a solid 4 out of 5 stars. If Shimano throws in a spaghetti spoon for dealing with any future backlashes, it'll be a straight-up five!

From: Rob: Texas 6/27/23

Comments: Excellent Reel. Well worth the money. I pair it with Dobyns 7' Med Heavy Fury Rod, 15lb Flouro Line. Smooth casting. Has Landed Big Florida Bass w/ No problem. Quality craftsmanship. The fit in your hand is perfect. The reel is compact. Highly Recommend and definitely buy only from Tackle Warehouse.

From: Billy: Florida 6/24/23

Comments: This reel blows my mind. I have 2 of them. It is pretty much the best reel you can buy at this price point in my opinion. I have more expensive reels, and I end up picking this one up more often. It literally makes me say wow out loud sometimes after a cast lol because it just bombs! Really impressive. Don't hesitate. This thing punches way above its price tag.

From: Richie - Where We Wild YouTube : Castaic Lake, CA 5/9/23

Comments: Excellent price and delivery time. The real fits my hand well in this comfortable. I am working on adjusting to using the centrifugal breaking adjustment. I understand it and it seems to be a little bit better. I've also made a change into braided line and that changes the whole thing. This is an excellent real for the price point that we are at. It is the best will in my arsenal.

From: John: North Carolina 4/7/23

Comments: I had purchased the Curado BFS reel previously and was so impressed with how solid, smooth and quiet it was, I decided to get another Shimano. I've only had a chance to fish once with it so far, but I tested it's versatility. I left every other rig at home and only took my new SLX XT. I threw everything from 1/8 oz. jig to a 5/8 oz crank. The reel handled everything beautifully. Now I need a new rod for it.

From: Don: Bridgewater, VA 4/5/23

Comments: Excellent reel. I have 5 of these on various setups. They are smooth and reliable under all conditions. The variable breaking system is a must have, it comes it handy when conditions change. Love it. Buy it and you will too.

From: Billy: King George, VA 2/10/23

Comments: This review is based upon a recent purchase. The first time that I used it I noticed that the drag was not working, no matter how tight I set it. I returned it for a new one and it seems to work just fine. I have a couple of these reels and like how smoothly they operate. Hopefully, the drag issue is a one-off.

From: Unknown: 1/15/23

Comments: I've tried various SLX models and felt this one suited my needs as a tournament angler best. My equipment takes a beating and needs to be able to handle anything I throw at it without any second-guessing on my end. This casts equally as far as my Curado K's and feels the most durable of the SLX lineup. If you're looking to watch your price point and still have a workhorse piece, this is your reel.

From: Erik: Minnesota 6/30/22

Comments: I have 5 of the Casitas models, this purchase of the SLX is by far my most expensive reel and the smoothest. Cast a country mile and when you get a fish on, it reels in effortlessly. Overall great purchase.

From: Unknown: Delta 6/23/22

Comments: Hands down my favorite reel. I own multiple different shimano reels in various price points and always levitate back to the SLX XT. It is extremely smooth, far casting, with an exceptional break system.

From: Unknown: 6/20/22

Comments: Zero complaints. Solid reel. Smooth and cast great. For the money I couldn't be happier. Well built and gets the job done with zero problems.

From: Rick: Ohio 6/20/22

Comments: Fantastic reel for the price. If i didn't know any better id have thought this was more expensive reel. Cast great, excellent braking system. It would be pretty difficult for anyone to come up with something better at this price point.

From: Unknown: 5/27/22

Comments: After owning for almost a year I believe, you won't find a better reel for the price. Breaking system is awesome cast like a dream, and handles fish with ease. Very well put together well done shimano.

From: Jeohvany: Unknown 5/18/22

Comments: This is an amazing reel! The breaking is great, super smooth, large handle and small design fit the hands perfect! Great bang for your buck!!!

From: Dan: Auburn, CA 5/6/22

Comments: Really smoothe reel, feels great in my hand, Drag is perfect, and I love the breaking systems

From: Unknown: 4/15/22

Comments: Used it a few times now, smooth as butter, easy to dial in. 5 stars for the price would buy again.

From: Ryan: North Carolina 3/18/22

Comments: Amazing reel for the price, this was my first baitcaster and I've had it for 2 years now on a Duckett Triad 7' 4" H as my froggin set up and it's yet to disapoint, very easy to tune and seems to be a forgiving reel as I don't backlash much more than I do with my reels that are twice the price.

From: Unknown: 2/26/22

Comments: Good luck finding a better baitcaster for the price. This is only my second baitcaster (piscifun torrent) and my first shimano reel and I must say, I am very impressed. Especially considering it only has 5 bearing and reels with over twice as many don't feels as smooth. Definitely spend the extra $30 to get the xt. I imagine the regular slx is fine but this is just on another level.

From: Unknown: 2/19/22

Comments: Purchase SLX XT 151 XG casting is superlative very smooth retrieve. Very happy with product I will be purchasing additional reel. SVS infinity braking system makes this a must have. Flawless design fits nicely in your hand and the performance is unbelievable for the price.

From: Mark: Murphy, NC 2/16/22

Comments: Absolute best reel you can find in this price range. This reel performs incredibly beyond its' price point, has a great feel, frame, and launches casts. I have fished every reel in the SLX family, and this one all around outperforms them all, including the DC. Save yourself that extra $60 you'd spend on the DC and go with this one... feels better, looks better, and performs better in my opinion. Great reel, will be buying more.

From: Christian: Ohio 2/9/22

Comments: first bait caster, very smooth have been casting in the back yard all winter. can't wait for open water. well worth the money.

From: Jim: Unknown 2/3/22

Comments: Been throwing this high gear buttered biscuit around on an SLX 7MH rod and idk if I could be any happier with it. Cast and retrieve are smoother than James Brown in a crushed velvet jumpsuit. First day out I caught a solid 3lb largie on a football jig- made quick work of that donkey. SLX will definitely be a first option when I get my next reel.

From: Unknown: 12/9/21

Comments: Great lipless reel good casting high gear ratio to burn with.

From: Erik: Minooka, IL 12/8/21

Comments: Great reel and affordable. The dual brake system is amazing. I keep the centrifugal half on and half off. Then I make the on water adjustments with the magnetic brake. Super comfortable reel and has increased my casting distance. Prior to this reel I only used sub $80 reels because I didn't think there was a difference, but there is. Cant be beat at the $120-$130 price range.

From: Mik: Northeast 12/1/21

Comments: Two comments here. First, this SLX 150 XT is really smooth right out of the box! After a little adjustment, it's now my 'go to' reel. Second, great shipping speed and communication by Tackle Warehouse! Thanks guys

From: Jim: Pacific North West 11/24/21

Comments: This real is amazing I didn't have much experience with baitcasters and picked this up. After a little fine tuning with the breaks and tension knob it casts great and palms nicely. I think the dc is my next purchase!

From: Danny: Gwinn, MI 11/23/21

Comments: This real is amazing I didn't have much experience with baitcasters and picked this up. After a little fine tuning with the breaks and tension knob it casts great and palms nicely. I think the dc is my next purchase!

From: Danny: Marquette, Mi 11/22/21

Comments: This SLX 151 XT is now the third Shimano SLX reel in my boat. And it probably won't be my last. Smooth and strong all season long, Shimano quality.

From: Joe: New York 11/6/21

Comments: I am so glad that I purchased the 150xt from you ! This real is so smooth and has shown me that a great real does make fishing for me so much easier! My very first cast with it scored a nice 4 lb large mouth bass ! It was a great experience and look forward to making another purchase of this real!

From: Larry: El Cajon, CA 10/25/21

Comments: This was my second Shimano SLX 150 XT. I really enjoy these reels. I can bomb things out there, have very few problems with the reel itself, and really like the combination of feel and power. Adjustments are simple and for the most part, I find I can fish a variety of bait sizes with almost no need to adjust the settings without any appreciable drop in performance.

From: Unknown: 10/18/21

Comments: Best bang for the buck! You will NOT find a better reel at this price point. I also run DC'S (Curado & SLX) but honestly don't think the DC is worth the extra money. Ordering 2 more of these when they're back in stock! I run smaller cranks, spinners, chatters on them with 7' moderate poles.

From: Clem: Mineral, IL 10/6/21

Comments: bought the JDM version before this came out then bought the US version (same reel minor difference) and now I'm looking to buy another. This reel is basically a cheaper smaller Curado K, a workhorse reel for less. I will agree with other reviews it seems to take a trip or two to break it in. I'm not sure why but it really does feel lackluster first 2-3 trips then all the sudden same break settings it just works amazing and cast those same baits further and smoother. Year+ now and both still work just as good so it really does seem to just need a break in period as odd as that sounds since no other Shimano reel I've used needed that. So if you like the Curado but want a cheaper or smaller option this is a great choice!

From: Ferious: Utah 10/4/21

Comments: This is a geat reel ,one quickly became my go to ,smooth strong just all around awesome

From: Unknown: 10/3/21

Comments: Once broken in, this thing is a beast! At first you won't cast super far, still incredibly smooth, but when you catch some fish on it, you can sling a 1/4 oz lure far. We are talking 30-40 yards and I am sure I haven't reached maximum potential with it yet. 10/10 would recommend!

From: Unknown: Utah 9/11/21

Comments: Very nice reel for the price point. Obviously doesn't cast quite as well as the DC's but still outcasts every Lews I've ever owned...even the ones that cost 2 and 3 times as much. Shimano absolutely has the best baitcasters out right now and it's not even close. Get one.... or 12 lol

From: BRIAN: Indianapolis 9/8/21

Comments: Pretty decent inexpensive reel. Got it for my oldest son for mostly moving lures (spinnerbaits, chatterbaits), casts well etc.

From: Unknown: North Adams, MA 8/26/21

Comments: Smooth, casts a mile, continues my faith in Shimano quality and attention to detail.

From: Matt: Unknown 8/26/21

Comments: I bought a couple Shimano SLX 150 XT reels a while ago. They are amazing. They are a great improvement over the regular SLX and for the money I don't think you can beat them. Very smooth, long casts and awesome breaks. I highly recommend this real. Great work Shimano!!

From: Daniel: Unknown 8/25/21

Comments: Great reel, great price! Shimano does it again!

From: Bill: Turlock, CA 8/21/21

Comments: I have two XTs. One 6.3:1 for cranking, and one 8.2:1 for heavy applications. Both cast like a dream and are the best reels I own. The brakes are easy to set, and give you a lot of options. The only downside for me is that the tension knob doesn't click when you adjust it. That's really subjective so don't let it hold you back.

From: Unknown: 8/14/21

Comments: I like the reel alot. It is just weird not having to thumb it as much. Makes a cool sound when you cast though

From: Ben: 8/8/21

Comments: I really like the SLX XT.  This is actually the second one Ive purchased, not because I had to replace the first one but because I wanted to have it on another rod.. I love having the option to adjust the brakes quickly without having to open the reel when changing baits. Very smooth and a great value.  Highly recommended.

From: Bill: Pittsburgh, PA 8/8/21

Comments: Very nice reel. I like it more than the basic SLX because of the external control for the break. Light weight for the price with a good frame and good gearing. The handle feels very smooth even thought there are no bearings in the handle knobs. Good tolerances. good performance. Great place to put your money for a reel in the price range.

From: Nicholas: West Virgina 6/13/21

Comments: Outstanding reel, easiest casting bait caster ive owned. Highly recommend!

From: Matt: Indiana 6/9/21

Comments: I'm very happy with this reel. I was looking for something smaller than some of my other reels and this fit the bill. It is quite dependable, easy to adjust drag/braking and casts a mile when needed.

From: Sean: Medfield 6/1/21

Comments: I am usually a lews guy but I always see all these Shimano guys talking so i decided to give the 8.3:1 SLX XT a try and I am now officially a Shimano guy after this reel. I put it on a 7'7" heavy fast Milliken rod from 6th sense and use it for punching heavy heavy cover and this reel has absolutely no problem getting big fish out of the gunk and have even caught some musky on it with no issues which is the real test of a reel and this thing has done great and you can just feel how solid and how high quality this real is the very second you hold it.

From: Jimmy: Evansville, IN 5/25/21

Comments: This is a very solid, smooth baitcaster.  Working with the breaking system you can get it dialed in and it performs very well.  Have 3 and am very happy with them.

From: Frank: 4/20/21

Comments: Not recommended terrible knot strength . Lost two fish & lure 1rst day.

From: Sigfredo 4/15/21

Comments: Absolutely the best reel in this price range for sure. They're just as good as my more expensive reels also. Smooth and casts a mile. Will definitely be buying more.

From: Mike: Wisconsin 4/15/21

Comments: I bought 2 Slx 7.3.1 last season for my jerkbait rods and loved em , smooth and super easy going with barely any backlashes once adjusted right but wasn't crazy about having to pull the side cover off to adjust the brake . Bought  2 new slx xt 151 this season . Little faster 8.2.1 for jigging on my mojo bass rods and man it's a perfect combo . Fast ,smooth and I can switch it up for top water or even throw some Striper plugs . They cast a mile with 20 lb braid . They have the brake adjustment on the outside on this model which is great .I used to be an abu guy but their reels just don't seem to hold up anymore so  I'm on the shimano train now

From: Brian: Bucks County, PA 4/8/21

Comments: I have purchased three of these reels in the past 6 months and have been VERY pleased so far. They cast and perform just as good as the more expensive Shimano models I also own.

From: Bryan: New Kent, VA 4/6/21

Comments: This is my first casting reel I've owned. Only had one backlash so far(user error), feels great and very user friendly. I'm very satisfied with my decision to purchase  this reel.

From: Dave: Springfield, OH 4/6/21

Comments: Smaller than the SLX. It feels great in hand and it cast SMOTH! I will definitely be ordering more soon.

From: Cain: Kansas 3/29/21

Comments: Sharp little reel.  I bought this reel specifically for finesse jigs.  It fits the bill perfectly.  Currently spooled with 12 lb test it could easily handle 15.  Cast effortlessly and fits well in the hand.  This is a very versatile reel and is well made, especially for the price point.

From: Bryan: Lyman, SC 3/11/21

Comments: The SLX is a solid reel the XT is smoother. I really like the external casting adjustments when the wind picks up. SLX, what a line of reels.

From: Jethro, Maryland 3/8/21

Comments:  I've had my SLX XT since they came out, although I can't remember when that was. It's been a dedicated frog/jig reel and even pulled crank bait duty for a while, and I can say I have zero complaints. I've got a Curado 200 that I recently purchased, and the SLX feels like the Curado in a lot of ways, and something I like more about the SLX than the Curado is getting the 150 sized spool, which is a bit easier for me to control. I've got fairly large hands, but I'm skinny as all hell, and my fingers match the rest of me, so I find some difficulty in fully being able to get my thumb over the entire spool of the Curado. I fully plan on making more of my arsenal SLX X's before this year is up. They're reliable workhorse reels that you won't feel bad about subjecting to some tough love, and they'll take care of you so long as you take care of them. Don't put em in saltwater, and pat them dry after using and add just a drop of oil per the manufacturer's guidelines, and you'll be set with these reels for years to come. I can't wait to grab another six or seven of em.

From: Jay: Florida 3/2/21

Comments: Great freaking reel! I've beat the heck out of this thing from shallow rockfish jigging to slow days on the lake. Has landed lots of calico bass and spotties. Workhorse!

From: Unknown: California 1/27/21

Comments: Great reel ,can't beat it for the price.. light n smooth

From: Unknown: 1/26/21

Comments: Great feel smooth casting extra brake system helps with light baits durability will be tested for durability this season.

From: Unknown: 1/16/21

Comments: Casts small lightweight balsa crank baits just as good as a spinning setup. Highly recommend!

From: Lucas: 12/29/20

Comments: The XT is the 5th SLX I've added to my arsenal. I think it's just as smooth and comfortable as the DC and standard SLX. Casts a mile, great smooth retrieve and awesome braking. The added external braking is great for one the fly changes and fine tuning to different baits. You can't beat it for the price and allows you to pair with Fury's to Zodias to Curado to E6X and keep the price down. I even had it paired to a Expride 7'2 ML+ and it was great throwing smaller baits! Highly recommend ALL SLX's!!

From: Chad: Brockport, NY 11/28/20

Comments: I've had the reel for about 8 months, and the reel makes an awful grinding sound When reeling the reel is great except for that. one of the farthest casting reels i own. I won't be buying another

From: Unknown: 11/15/20

Comments: I've had this reel for about a year now and have heavily fished it. I've been using it for frogging and flipping and I have to say it's a great reel for the price. It is still as smooth as the day I got it. For people on a budget or a high school angler like me this is a great option.

From: Unknown: 11/3/20

Comments: This reel paired up with a shimano intenza rod, is just unfair. It feels like a $300 reel. Its better than my curado k Buy this reel!

From: Max: 8/9/20

Comments: This reel is amazing. I have this paired up with a Mojo Bass to throw jigs and Texas rigs and this thing is insane! I can nearly spool myself if I want to bomb a cast. Worth every penny.

From: Unknown: 8/6/20

Comments: There is a terrible reel. Avoid it at all costs. Grindy, noisy, and brake settings do not stay. You have to keep adjusting it after every cast.

From: Mike: Memphis, TN 7/30/20

Comments: I find this reel to be utter garbage. The braking on it is rigid and stiff and the spool won't spin with the any of the brakes enabled unless you crank the drag down. But when you crank the drag down it changes the external braking setting that you set it at (example: If you set it at 6 and then crank it some, it goes down to 3). I expected much more for my money from Shimano considering $50 reels perform similiarly.

From: Unknown: 7/30/20

Comments: I fish strictly Shimano reels. I own two Chronarch mgls, two Curado Ks, a Metanium MGL, and an Aldebaren. Although this reel doesn't fish as good as Shimano's super high end gear, the SLX is without a doubt an impressive reel at its price point. It fishes like a 200-300 dollar reel. I am not disappointed that I bought one and you won't be either. If you're thinking about it then go ahead and do it.

From: Evan: Decatur, AL 6/8/20

Comments: Everyone knows how good this reel is going to be, just based on the OG SLX performance alone. So, common sense would dictate the XT will be even better. This time the reel has the looks to go with the performance. the SLX isn't an ugly reel by any means (however, I don't like the blue spool) But the XT, with that sick black handle and the Metamium/Bantam MGL-style side plate, make this reel look phenomenal. It looks like a $200+ reel... minus the blue spool, of course... IMO

From: Jay P: Ontario, Canada 5/20/20

Comments: I am strictly a Shimano guy. I own multiple of their higher end reels, but when I bought this reel I fell in love with it immediately. This reel feels and reels the exact same as their expensive reels. Anyone who needs a good reel for a cheaper price, this is it.

From: Lane S: Kentucky 4/30/20

Comments: I just picked up two of these, and I honestly believe that these are the best reel for the price point. Silky smooth, and very little force needed to get great casting distance. I have been throwing chatter baits and swim jigs with these reels, and I am utterly impressed with the SVS infinity breaking system. I was throwing with the wind, turned the boat to throw a big chatter bait and turned the SVS dial up one, and it cast nearly as far into a 15mph headwind. I haven't been a big fan of Shimanos for a long time, but this reel made me a believer again. Worth every penny!

From: Lincoln: Minnesota 4/23/20

Comments: This is all you need to know about the SLX XT. It specializes in casting light weight baits. It will actually cast a 1/4oz bait farther than it will cast a 1/2oz bait and you don't have freaking throw your shoulder out trying to get a max cast. I love it because I put it on a Dobyns Crankbait rod and now I can cast crankbaits with ease. The other benefit is the SVS Infinity Braking System. So easy to dial in the brakes when changing different baits. This is a really nice reel for the money.

From: Shawn: Durham, NC 4/17/20

Comments: Excellent reel. I own Curado Ks, Antares 70, Curado 70, and the SLX while not as refined performs every bit as well as the higher end reels. We'll see about durability and longevity. These reels are so tiny in hand, super comfy. I have nothing bad to say about them. If you enjoy Shimano reels this should be one to add to the collection.

From: Jeremy: Iowa 4/4/20

Comments: Just fished this reel for the first time and I gotta say I am very impressed. I also have a Casitas and I think this reel is much smoother and more comfortable in my hand. I purchased the SLX 6'10 medium with it for my jerk bait combo and couldn't be happier

From: Unknown: Colorado 3/10/20

Comments: I own multiple Shimano reels and when the SLX XT came out I knew I had to pick one up. After getting it, I paired it with a SLX rod 7' 2" and have been slinging spinnerbaits with it. After fishing with it for months I believe it is in my top 5 Shimano Reels and I will definitely be purchasing more. If you buy Shimano you'll never be disappointed.

From: Lane S: Kentucky 2/25/20

Comments: It felt like the curado k for about a month but after cranking with it for about 6 months on and off it feels kinda grindy and feels rough. Still casts fine but I wouldn't compare it to my curado k now. I would recommend the original slx for the weight reduction or the k for a more durable reel.

From: Ronin: Delaware 2/1/20

Comments: I'm 35 and I've fished everything under the sun and shimano did it again. I recently had a bad experience with Abu Garcia revo X's with the handles malfunctioning. The build quality on those are no where near as solid or smooth as the shimano slx's. I'm sure their higher costing reels are ok but the quality just isn't therr with the revo X. That being said I held an slx XT in the store and it literally feels like my curado K. I was surprised to hear that these reels are a little over 100$. So I bought an XT and sold 3 of the revo X's I had to get another SLX and now I've got ALL Shimano. If you are where I was shopping around and testing other brands out don't waste your money anywhere else. The slx line is seriously the standard at the 100$ price point. The XT sets the bar high and I'm a believer. Shimano engineers gears so it's no wonder their reels feel like a ROLEX lol call me a shimano fanboy I don't care. I just dont want anyone to waste the money I have to get up to this point where all that is by my feet on the deck of my boat is SHIMANO

From: Unknown: Kerryville, TX 11/25/19

Comments: This reel is crazy smooth! It also chucks light stuff very far. If your thinking about getting this reel, do it! You wont regret it!

From: Charlie: Indiana 11/6/19

Comments: I prefer this over the Curado! Better frame and the external brake control is so much better. I replaced the handle bushings with 4 bearings so it's smoother and has a higher quality feel. Tough to beat at this price.

From: Steve: Ontario, CA 9/18/19

Comments: Love this reel! I've had the regular slx for a while now, simple but great reel. This one takes it up a notch, 2 adjustable breaks and larger spool. This thing casts Mile and easy to dial in. If you are looking at an slx, spend the extra 30 bucks, this one is smoother and easier to adjust on the fly. You won't regret it!

From: Jim: Northern VA 8/11/19

Back to Top