In 2026, exciting new products have been announced by various manufacturers to coincide with events like the Fishing Festival!
This time, we will introduce all the 2026 model reels announced by the two major manufacturers, Shimano and Daiwa. From the evolution of entry-level models to the long-awaited additional sizes of flagship machines, this year's lineup is truly unmissable.
Shimano 2026 New Releases
Shimano seems to have expanded the technologies of its high-end models, such as "Infinity Drive" and "MGL Spool IV," to a wider range of grades.
Spinning Reels
26 NASCI
The model with the strongest cost performance has undergone a full model change. Equipped with "Infinity Drive," its winding power has significantly improved.
- Lineup: 500 to C5000 sizes
- Release: January 2026
26 Vanquish CE (Consumer Edition)
A 2026 limited production! A racing-spec model specializing in small sizes from 1000 to 2500, pushing "winding sensitivity" to the absolute limit.
- Lineup: 8 items in total (1000 to 2500 sizes)
- Release: February 2026
26 NEXAVE
Despite being an entry-level model, it is equipped with "Silent Drive" and "AR-C Spool," drastically reducing line troubles and improving rotational performance.
- Lineup: 11 items in total (1000 to C5000HG)
- Release: May 2026 (some in June)
Additional Size Models
- 26 Stella SW: Ultra-large sizes like the 30000PG have been added.
- 26 Twin Power: The long-awaited "C2000SHG" for mountain streams and area trout has been added.
Baitcasting Reels
26 Calcutta Conquest DC
The pinnacle of round reels has evolved. With the combination of "MGL Spool IV," "I-DC5," and "Infinity Drive," casting distance and winding feel have reached another dimension.
- Lineup: 100 and 200 sizes
- Release: March 2026
26 Scorpion DC MD
The synonym for freestyle reels has been transformed into a Monster Drive (MD). Equipped with the "MGL Spool IV (38mm diameter / 21mm width)," long-distance casting performance with thick lines has improved.
- Lineup: 200 size
- Release: June 2026
26 Calcutta Conquest BFS Limited
The pinnacle model exclusively for bait finesse has arrived.
Electric / Conventional Reels
- 26 BeastMaster 1000: Equipped with the "GIGA-MAX MOTOR," achieving a maximum drag force of 15kg.
- 26 Talica 40II / 50II: Large models of lever drag reels. Releasing in May 2026.
Daiwa 2026 New Releases
Daiwa's highlights are the spread of "AIRDRIVE DESIGN" to entry-level machines and the revival of the sturdy "HD (Heavy Duty)" models.
Spinning Reels
26 FREAMS
"AIRDRIVE DESIGN" is finally adopted in the Freams! The ZAION V rotor has made operability dramatically lighter.
- Features: AIRDRIVE ROTOR/BAIL, ATD TYPE-L, MAGSEALED Pinion
- Lineup: LT1000S-P to LT6000D-H
- Release: February 2026 (sizes 4000 and above in March)
26 CERTATE HD (Heavy Duty)
Revived after 10 years! In addition to a full metal (aluminum) body, the rotor is also made of aluminum, making it a reel that is a pure block of "strength."
- Release: February 2026
26 CERTATE SW
Large sizes (8000 to 20000) have undergone a full model change. It overpowers large fish with its "Power Drive Design."
- Lineup: 8000 to 20000 sizes
- Release: March 2026
26 SALTIGA (Additional/New Specs)
- Lineup: 300 size (inshore jigging), 35 size (for large fish)
Baitcasting Reels
26 RYOGA
The "Ryoga of Winding" is reborn, clad in Hyperdrive Design. Available in two types: SV specifications and LC (Long Cast) concept specifications.
- Lineup: 100 size (SV), 150 size (LC)
- Release: 2026
26 TATULA BF TW
A bait finesse machine originating from Japan, now a global standard. A flawless finish with a "φ30mm Extra Super Duralumin BF Spool" and "HYPERDRIVE DESIGN."
- Release: March 2026
26 STEEZ SV LIGHT TW
Equipped with a high-response spool, it handles everything from lightweight lures to versatile applications.
Electric / IC Reels
- 26 SEABORG 300J / 500J: The standard machine equipped with the JOG Power Lever and MAGMAX-G motor has evolved.
- 26 TIERRA IC: A new model of IC reel for Tai Rubber (snapper fishing).
Conclusion
In 2026, both Shimano and Daiwa have assembled an interesting lineup of reels at both extremes: the "raising of the bottom for middle to entry classes" and "specialized high-end models (like the limited Vanquish and CERTATE HD)."
If there are any models that catch your eye, be sure to check them out!
