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I’m always trying to find products that are quality built without the large price tag, and spinning reels are no different. It’s commonly known that you get what you pay for with fishing reels, right? I would confidently answer yes, but what about those reels that are under $50? Or even under $40? Or perhaps under $30?
I came across the Sienna Fe series by Shimano when I was looking for a reel to fit my ultra-light set up. I didn’t need an expensive reel, but I also didn’t want to chance losing a fish because of poor reel quality, whether it be due to poor craftsmanship or a low quality drag system. I would be tackling high-country trout with the rig, along with perhaps some small (and I mean small) bass, small catfish, and some sunfish.
I first came across the Sienna series at a local Sportsman’s Warehouse, where I picked up the reel for the first time. The craftsmanship seemed decent for being from China – it features an almost 100% aluminum body, which I was impressed with. Shimano claims that this series features an oscillation gear that is closer to the reel seat, providing for a smoother and more balanced experience, and I can’t help but to agree with their claims.
The gear ratio of the Sienna series isn’t great, with the 1000 and 2500 reels featuring a 5.0:1, and the 4000 featuring a 5.2:1. What does this mean? More reel revolutions are needed to retrieve the line, which can result in lost fish in some situations. The bearing system also isn’t great, featuring only 2 ball bearings. These 2 “cons”, in my opinion, are worth it due to the following reason…
The reel is only $29.99 for all models. You heard that correct, 30 bucks for a relatively solid reel. I couldn’t pass up trying the reel for that price, and so I bought the 2500 model for my 5’6” rod, and fitted the reel with 8lb test.
Performance wise, I couldn’t ask for more from the reel, considering the price. I was impressed with the drag system, especially after I pulled in a 4.5lb catfish with it. I was so impressed, in fact, that I bought another one, though this one a 1000 model. I’ll mention that I purchased this reel for only $24.99…
This smaller reel was for my 3’6” ultra-ultra-ultra-light rod, which I put together for an extra challenge, and fitted the reel with 6lb test.
It wasn’t until one evening that I was convinced of the Sienna’s quality. I was using my 3’6” rig, and I had a bite on my line, followed by setting the hook somewhat lightly. The reel’s drag started screaming, and my line was being ripped from the 1000 reel. I was slightly nervous, as the line capacity of the smaller reel isn’t large. I finally started making some ground after a few minutes of delicate fighting, and after 5-6 minutes of drag whining and reeling, I managed to land a 6.2lb catfish. It was after that fight that I believed in the Shimano Sienna series spinning reels.
Excuse the poor picture quality, but notice that the length of the fish is close to matching the length of my 3'6" rod, caught using the Shimano Sienna Fe 1000 on 6lb test. Te fish weighed in at 6.2lbs.
Overall, I give the Shimano Sienna Fe series a solid 3.5 out of 5. A higher gear ratio and more ball bearings would increase my rating, and a 100% aluminum reel would give it a perfect score. At the end of the day, this reel is the minimum quality that will be fitted on my spinning rods. Interested in purchasing this reel? Click HERE.