By BassFan Staff


The evolution of the lightweight and compact baitcasting reel continues and Shimano is at the front of the pack with this spring's U.S. introduction of the Aldebaran 50.

The Aldebaran, at least a different incarnation of it, has been available to Japanese anglers since 2009. The new domestic version is crazy light (4.7 ounces) and is packed with all the latest features Shimano has been putting in its reels recently.

First off, the Aldebaran is the next phase in Shimano's compact baitcasting reel lineup, following in the footsteps of the Core Mg. Engineers managed to shave nearly a whole ounce – 0.8 to be precise – off the weight of the Core Mg when they built the new Aldebaran.

As fishermen continue to fine tune their equipment to meet the demands of a variety of techniques, Aldebaran is the new benchmark in compact lightweight fishing reels.

Among the Aldebaran's many features are:

> Shimano was able to reduce the weight of the reel by building it with its Ci4+ material along with a new treated magnesium that maintains the strength and rigidity of the reel body.

> Shimano’s new SilentTune technology and S3D: Stable Spool Design combine to significantly reduce spool vibration for incredibly smooth casts and retrieves.

> The SVS Infinity braking system, which is included on the Chronarch Ci4+ and the new Curado, also delivers easy-to-manage, consistent spool control and brake force. Advanced brake weights that use ‘inner friction’ against the raceway during the cast allows the SVS Infinity system to precisely control spool speed for super accurate casting, especially when using lighter lures.

> X-Ship creates more stability with each turn of the handle as the pinion gear is positioned closer to the center line of the large diameter drive gear. Two A-RB roller bearings are there to support the pinion gear.

> Available in right- and left-hand models in 6.5:1 (25.5 inches of line per turn) and 7.4:1 (29.1 inches of line per turn) gear ratios.

> Sleek, aggressive design with a dark pewter finish.

> The price tag is steep at $419.99, but it speaks to how many quality components and high-performance materials are packed into this reel.

To learn a little more about the Aldebaran, check out the video below: