I am not a big fan of Shimano reels, I have used a few of their cheaper models before but never purchased one for my own consumption. I am an Accurate and Abu Garcia praiser and also a satisfied owner of many Penn reels. When I first saw a picture and detailed description of the Shimano Trinidad my mind started wondering, has Shimano finally made a reel I could not live without? The question was answered at a saltwater fishing show when I came across one, I had to have it. Now after a year of use and abuse I am proud to admit it is a keeper. My Shimano Trinidad 30 has accounted for many king mackerel, and a few wahoo which it is well suited for. I spooled it up with around 400+ yards of Cx Premium P-Line in 30lb. test and mounted it on a Cape Fear Blue Water stand up 6'3" rod rated for 20-30lb. test line. It is a perfect match and this combo has proved itself. The reels featured that make it a winner are its machined aluminum frame, six ball bearings(can you say smooth), high quality drag system with Dartainium washers, and the feature I like most, an adustable clicker. This clicker can be set light or heavy depending on fishing technique, conditions and species you are after. I found that it is very useful set heavy and leave the reel out of gear for king mackerel, it has sufficient pressure to prevent over run and keep the fish on the line until you can grab your reel. For trolling for bigger, more powerful fish I set it light and put the reel in gear with the drag light to start off with and take the clicker off and tighten the drag sufficiently to fight the fish. People leave the clicker on in its lightest setting so while fighting a fish if it runs the captain can hear it running and position the boat appropriately or chase the fish. I believe this is a sound idea also and have done it myself while tournament fishing for king mackerel. The Trinidad 30 also has a 6.2:1 gear ratio that makes it ideal for hard charging fish should they make a fast run toward the boat. These features all in one handy, light weight, compact reel will make it a popular choice for the king mackerel tournament trail, and a solid investment for wahoo anglers as well.

Recommended: Yes