Long-Term Review: Shimano SLX DC XT Reel – 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!

First Impressions

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

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

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, it’s time to thin the herd, and this reel is likely to find a new home soon. Thanks for reading, and I hope this review helps you make an informed decision. Happy fishing!