In 2026, Daiwa released the new 500-size electric reel, the "26 Seaborg 500J". Developed under the keywords "Lighter, Tougher, More Comfortable," this reel features a tough setting designed for fighting larger fish and electric jigging.
Here is an in-depth look at the technology and performance of the highly anticipated "26 Seaborg 500J".
750g Lightweight Body and New Aluminum JOG Power Lever
The 26 Seaborg 500J weighs just 750g. This is a significant weight reduction compared to previous models in the same class: about 9% lighter than the 19 Seaborg 500JP (820g) and approximately 23% lighter than the 20 Seaborg 500MJ (980g).
For operation, it adopts a newly shaped "Aluminum JOG Power Lever" with excellent grip. The angle and shape of the grooves are carefully designed so that your finger does not slip, allowing for reliable and effortless one-handed operation. Additionally, the power lever can be used for right-handed winding, enabling comfortable operation with either hand whether you are standing or using a rod holder.
MAGMAX-G Motor: 4x More Durable
At the heart of this reel is the "MAGMAX-G Motor," a slide-brush motor equipped with a special neodymium magnet. It offers excellent instant power and boasts a motor durability four times greater than the conventional MAGMAX.
- Maximum Winding Power: 90kg (Approx. 99kg when using a Super Lithium battery)
- Maximum Drag Force: 23kg
With its high torque, the motor provides the responsiveness needed even for slow winding. Furthermore, the spool shaft on the side plate, which is prone to salt crystallization and difficult to maintain, is equipped with a "MAGSEALED Ball Bearing." This ensures that the initial performance of spool free rotation and winding efficiency is maintained over time.
Fall Control and Jigging Mode
The reel features a "Fall Brake Dial" that allows you to instantly adjust the dropping speed with a single thumb. You can control the tension from spool-free to maximum brake within a 180-degree range. This eliminates the need for thumbing, prevents backlash, and helps you easily detect bites during the fall.
It also comes with a "Jigging Mode" designed for electric jigging, allowing you to select from three automatic jerk (standard) patterns:
- One-Pitch Jerk
- One-Pitch Pause
- Combination Jerk
Large-Diameter Leader Compatible Level Wind
The line capacity accommodates PE #4 (60lb)-500m, PE #5 (80lb)-400m, and PE #6 (90lb)-300m. The level wind is designed with an inner diameter of 3.0mm, allowing thick shock leaders—such as an FG knot connecting PE #6 and a #30 (120lb) fluorocarbon leader—to pass through smoothly (supports up to a #60 (240lb) nylon leader). Daiwa officially states that this reel is fully capable of handling albacore, yellowfin tuna, and amberjack jigging.
Summary
The 26 Seaborg 500J features a refined form with a brilliant silver coating design.
With its lightweight 750g body, highly durable MAGMAX-G motor, and a level wind that accommodates thick leader knots, this electric reel is equipped with the specs to target a wide variety of seasonal fish—including drop-fishing, offshore squid, live bait fishing, mid-deep sea fishing, and jigging.
It is a versatile electric reel that opens up many possibilities for different fishing styles.
