Shimano Tiagra A TI50WLRSA 2-Speed Lever Drag Reels

In Shimano’s storied history, there is no other big game reel that’s been more widely utilized than the legendary Shimano Tiagra A TI50WLRSA 2-Speed Lever Drag Reel. This bad boy’s got it all – an incredible line capacity (over a kilometer of 200# braid), incredible stopping power (44# max drag thanks to an oversized carbon drag washer) and most importantly, a fully cold forged and machined body, spool, frame – everything. This reel is responsible for more black marlin releases than any other single reel, thanks to their exclusive use at the famed Tropic Star lodge in Panama, a place I’m fortunate enough to know well. The spool is braid ready, and is built with rigid specifications to adequately withstand the pressure that a 500# marlin can dish out. Made in Japan, the TI50WLRSA is a wide bodied reel that can balance well on either a standup or trolling rod with a bent or straight butt, and is very dexterous thanks to the oversized power handle – a godsend when battling for an hour plus. This is a two speed reel, with the high gear coming in at 3.1:1, perfect for quick gains when backing down on tailwalking marlin, and a low gear of 1.3:1 which is ideal for winching up stubborn yellowfin before they cook themselves. The Shimano Tiagra  A TI50WLRSA Two Speed Lever Drag Reel is perhaps the most famous Shimano reel in existence, and for good reason – it’s responsible for thousands of cherished memories belonging to fisherman all over the world.