Is the ’23 Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS The Ultimate Bait Finesse Reel?

Hey there, fishing enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share my experience with the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS reel, a highly anticipated addition to my fishing gear collection. After waiting for this reel for months when it was initially released, I couldn’t wait to put it to the test. Rather than doing a standard unboxing, I decided to dive straight into how this reel performs on the water. Spoiler alert: it’s impressive!

First Impressions and Initial Setup

From the moment I held the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS, I could tell it was something special. The reel’s compact design and smooth mechanics immediately stood out. To start off, I paired it with a Smith ARS spinner weighing three and a half grams. I chose this lure because I knew it had the best chance of catching fish right off the bat.

On the Water: Effortless Casting

As soon as I made my first cast, I was blown away by how effortlessly the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS performed. The casting was smooth and required minimal effort. I set the brakes right in the middle of the range, and this setting worked perfectly. Even though the water was a bit chillier than expected, the reel handled it like a champ.

Catching Fish: The Real Test

Despite some challenges, including kids throwing rocks and the water being clearer than usual, the reel continued to impress. I hooked a few fish, including a lively brown trout and a stunning brook trout. The reel’s smooth drag system and easy brake adjustments made the entire experience enjoyable. Every cast felt precise, and I didn’t need to make many adjustments to the spool tension.

Since that initial day of fishing, the Shimano ‘CQ BFS” as it’s called has become one of my go-to reels. trout, bass, panfish, it does it all. Wading or in a kayak – even traveling – been there, done that with the CQ BFS. It has been nearly flawless in its performance.

Comparing to the 2017 Version

The Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS 2023 model brings significant upgrades compared to the 2017 version. One of the most noticeable differences is the gear ratio. The 2023 model comes in two gear ratios, HG (7.8:1) and XG (8.9:1). Similar to the 2022 Aldebaran BFS, it features an aluminum gear set for smooth operation.

Will the aluminum be better than brass? Time will tell. Although many find the 2017 to be slightly smoother. The new reel is also a bit lighter at 195 grams (6.88 ounces) and has a smaller frame, which makes a big difference during long fishing sessions. Even with my moderately sized hands, I find the round shape of the Calcutta Conquest BFS very comfortable.

The spool design and braking system have seen substantial improvements. The new spool braking system is notably better, providing enhanced casting performance, especially for lightweight lures. It is the same system from the Aldebaran BFS, and performs just as well.

Accessing the spool is easier compared to the older version, which adds to the convenience of using this reel. But, it is still one of the tightest areas you will encounter for trying to pick out a backlash. thankfully, that has been a rare occurrence with his reel.

Japanese Manufacturing Quality

One of the standout features of the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS is its build quality. Manufactured in Japan, this reel exudes precision and durability. The craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of its design, from the smooth gear operation to the sturdy construction. It just looks like a work of art or a finely crafted precision instrument.

Specifications

Field Testing and Future Updates

I have had no issues casting down to 1.5 grams with the COnquest BFS, and I’ve also thrown 5/8 ounce Whopper Ploppers on it. It has performed extremely well.

I am working on a more objective set of measurements to rank reels, and once that is done I’ll include some updated information here. But, I could easily see myself fishing with only this reel if I had to choose just one model to put on all my Kistler Hunt BFS rods. It’s solidly one of my favorites out of the 16 combos I regularly use.

Verdict: Is It Worth the Cost?

After spending the last 15 months or so with the ’23 Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS, I can confidently say it’s worth the price. Yes, it was initially priced at $400, and it’s still often at $375 at the time of this writing, but the quality, performance, elegance, and comfort it offers are unmatched. The reel is incredibly smooth, easy to adjust, and compact enough to be comfortable for extended use.

You could spend a little less on the Shimano Aldebaran BFS (as long as you’re not buying from somewhere like Tackle Warehouse!) or the Daiwa Gekkabijin and get similar performance, but you give up the looks. And if you’re into round reels, you gots to have the look.

Final Thoughts

For those searching for the ultimate bait finesse system reel, the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS should be at the top of your list. Its smooth casting, precise adjustments, and comfortable design make it a standout choice for any fishing enthusiast.

Fishing with the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS has been an absolute pleasure. It’s a reel that delivers on its promises and enhances the fishing experience. When added to a premium rod like the Kistler Hunt BFS, I think it creates one of the best possible combos available for the BFS enthusiast.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend warrior, this reel is a fantastic addition to your gear. Thanks for joining me on this adventure, and happy fishing!

I hope this post helps you make an informed decision about purchasing the Shimano Calcutta Conquest BFS. If you use my links in this article, it helps support the blog. Tight lines and happy fishing!