’22 Shimano SLX DC XT Reel Review: Pros, Cons, and Final Verdict

Hey everyone! Today, I’m excited to share my long-term review of the Shimano SLX DC XT reel. I tested this reel over a four-month period, seeing how light it can cast and seeing if it is even possible to make this reel backlash. (Spoiler – it’s almost backlash proof!) Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fishing, this review will give you all the insights you need to decide if this reel is the right fit for you. Let’s dive into the details!

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First Impressions of the Shimano SLX DC XT

When I first got my hands on the Shimano SLX DC XT, I was genuinely impressed. This digitally controlled reel can cast down to 2 grams, which is quite remarkable. It’s not marketed as a bait finesse reel, but it performs well in that regard. Weighing in at 195 grams, it’s heavier than some of the lightest reels on the market, like the Aldebaran or the Daiwa Alphas Air TW, which are in the 135-gram weight class.

Pros of the SLX DC XT

One of the standout features of the SLX DC XT is its deeper spool. This allows it to hold about 100 yards of line, which is great for those long casts. The reel has an 8.1:1 gear ratio and offers 12 pounds of drag, which is more than many Shimano bait finesse reels that only provide 8 pounds of drag. It has seven plus one bearings, ensuring smooth operation.

The reel’s feel in hand is excellent, thanks to its unique material, different from the standard Shimano SLX or BFS models. I ran it with 8-pound Daiwa J-Braid, and it performed admirably, with only a couple of backlashes during some challenging windy conditions while peacock bass fishing.

Value and Performance

The Shimano SLX DC XT is praised for its value and performance, available for under $200 and capable of finesse fishing down to 3/16 oz (5g). I tested the reel with various lures, starting with a 5g jerkbait and moving to lighter ones to determine its bait finesse capabilities. On a Shimano Expride BFS with 10-pound Daiwa J-braid, the SLX DC XT handles lures down to 3/16 oz with ease, casting them over 30 yards.

The reel even successfully casts lighter lures, such as 1/8 oz and 2g, though accuracy and distance vary slightly with the lightest lures. I had to pair the rod with the Jenko Double Down for the lightest lure weights. This shows the reel’s surprising effectiveness for bait finesse, capable of casting lures as light as 1.5g with the appropriate rod and line setup.

Cons of the SKX DC XT

Despite its initial appeal, the Shimano SLX DC XT has a few drawbacks. The weight can become noticeable during long fishing sessions, potentially leading to fatigue. More importantly, it sacrifices some casting distance for the digital control. I ran the reel on the lowest setting, and while it cast well, it didn’t achieve the distances I get with my true bait finesse reels.

Another significant downside is the lack of a clicking drag system. This feature is crucial for precise drag adjustments, especially when targeting big aggressive fish with lighter setups. Unfortunately, the SLX DC XT doesn’t have it, which has been a dealbreaker for me.

Performance Over Time

Over the four months I tested the SLX DC XT, I’ve found myself gradually using it less frequently. Initially, it was exciting to try out a DC reel, but the novelty wore off. The reel ended up spending more time on the workbench than on my kayak or rods. It’s a good reel, but not one of my favorites.

Suitability and Use Cases

The Shimano SLX DC XT is better suited for those who want an entry-level digital control reel. It performs well with heavier baits (8-10 grams) and offers a good casting distance. However, if you’re looking for a reel for ultra-light setups or finesse applications, this might not be the best choice due to its weight and lack of a clicking drag.

Reels like the DMK Silver Feather DC or the Loongze B100 DC might be a better choice.

Final Verdict

The Shimano SLX DC XT is a solid reel with several commendable features, including its line capacity and smoothness. However, it falls short in critical areas for finesse fishing. While it’s a great option for those seeking a digital control reel at a reasonable price, it doesn’t fit my preferred fishing style and performance needs.

If you’re interested in trying out a DC reel for finesse fishing, the SLX DC XT is worth considering. But for me, I really prefer the ultra-light reels and spools designed for BFS. I may eventually get another of these though – it’s a great reel.

FAQs About the Shimano SLX DC XT Reel

What Makes the Shimano SLX DC XT Reel Stand Out?

The Shimano SLX DC XT reel offers Digital Control (DC) braking, providing smoother and longer casts with fewer backlashes. It’s well-suited for a variety of fishing styles, including finesse fishing with light lures. Plus, it stays under the $200 mark.

Is It a Good Choice for BFS Fishing?

Yes! While the Shimano SLX DC XT might not have “BFS” in the name, its casting ability with light lures (as low as 3/16 oz) makes it a solid choice for anglers dipping into Bait Finesse Systems. If you want to explore BFS-specific options, take a look at this guide to BFS reels.

How Does the Digital Control Braking System Work?

The DC braking system calculates spool speed during casting and applies the right amount of braking to prevent backlash. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike who want fewer adjustments mid-cast. More about DC technology is explained in this article.

Can It Handle Saltwater?

The Shimano SLX DC XT is primarily designed for freshwater use. While you can take it to light saltwater environments, you’ll need to clean and maintain it thoroughly after each use to prevent corrosion.

What Line and Lures Work Best?

This reel handles a variety of line types, whether it’s fluorocarbon, monofilament, or braid. For finesse fishing, pair it with light fluorocarbon and small lures under ¼ oz for best results. You can get more tips on BFS-compatible lures here.

Is a Specific Rod Recommended for This Reel?

A medium-light or medium-power baitcasting rod works well with the Shimano SLX DC XT, especially if BFS or light lures are a focus. Rods designed specifically for BFS fishing, like those mentioned in this review, will help maximize its capabilities.

How Does It Compare to Other Shimano Models?

Compared to its cousins like the Aldebaran DC or the SLX BFS, the SLX DC XT combines affordability with performance. It might not be as lightweight as higher-end models, but it delivers solid performance for the price. Curious about other options? Check out the comparisons in this detailed guide.

Do I Need to Adjust the Reel Frequently?

Not really. The DC system lets you worry less about constant brake tuning, though you’ll want to set it correctly for lure weight and wind conditions at the start of your trip.

What Is the Gear Ratio?

This model has a 7.4:1 gear ratio, fast enough for most applications, whether you’re working soft plastics or speeding up crankbaits.

Is It Worth Buying for Beginners?

Absolutely. The combination of ease-of-use, performance, and reliability makes it beginner-friendly without feeling limiting as your skills grow. If you’re new to Bait Finesse, this guide might help you decide if this reel is your best starting point.