Should a Beginner Buy the Shimano Aldebaran BFS?
Hey there! Today, I want to dive into my experience with the ’22 Shimano Aldebaran BFS reel. After extensive use, I have a solid opinion on whether this reel is a good choice for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Initial Impressions and Challenges
When I first got my hands on the Shimano Aldebaran BFS, I was a bit skeptical. This was my third BFS reel, following the Dark Wolf Ultra and the Daiwa Alphas Air. I wanted to see if moving up to this next tier of BFS reels was worth it.
I got it immediately when it came out. I had read about the previous 2016 model, and it seemed to be a great performer. Hopefully, this new $340 reel would hold up to the hype.
To be honest, I wasn’t sold at first. The Aldebaran was difficult to dial in compared to my previous reels. The spool tension adjustment was particularly challenging. Unlike other BFS reels where you can hear the side-to-side play, the tight tolerances of the Aldebaran made it hard to detect by ear. I had to adjust it more like a traditional baitcaster, paying attention to the rate of fall of the lure.
Once I figured this out, the reel’s performance started to shine. The brake dial, which goes from one to five, was also tricky. Each click made a huge difference, unlike other reels where the impact is more gradual. This sensitivity made it harder to dial in initially but allowed for maximum performance once mastered.
Performance Across Different Rods and Weights
I’ve tested the Shimano Aldebaran BFS reel on several rods and with various weights. Initially, I paired it with the Limber Wind Shadow, expecting it to handle sub-1 gram weights well. While it did perform, I felt the Dark Wolf Ultra was slightly better for very light setups.
Next, I tried it on a Major Craft Banquet rod, which didn’t impress me. However, pairing the Aldebaran with an X-Pride rod, rated for 5 to 15 grams, was a game-changer. The synergy between the reel and rod significantly improved the performance, making casting and drag control effortless.
The Cost Factor
The Shimano Aldebaran BFS reel is not cheap. I paid around $350 for it, which is a substantial investment compared to budget reels. However, this reel offers smooth drag, precise control, and good casting distance, making it worth the price for serious anglers.
Long-Term Verdict
Despite my initial reservations, the Shimano Aldebaran BFS became my favorite reel, and it has continued to be one of the top reels I own, even after owning over 30 BFS reels.
It’s taught me to be better at dialing in my reels and has significantly improved my casting skills. The drag is incredibly smooth, and I’ve had no issues even in challenging conditions. And even after 2 years of hard use, it’s still buttery smooth and long-casting. The drag is still phenomenal.
For beginners, there might be a learning curve with this reel. However, once you get the hang of it, the Shimano Aldebaran BFS reel offers exceptional performance and precision, making it an excellent long-term purchase for both novice and experienced anglers.
Conclusion
The ’22 Shimano Aldebaran BFS is a fantastic reel that, despite its high price and initial learning curve, delivers outstanding performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, this reel can enhance your fishing experience and help you achieve more precise casting.
If you’re considering investing in a high-quality BFS reel, I highly recommend the Shimano Aldebaran BFS. It has become a staple in my fishing gear, and I’m confident it will impress you too.
Happy fishing!
Aaron Hunt
Aaron Hunt Fishing
