Introduction: Daiwa sometimes has a way of inexplicably killing the product life cycle of seemingly popular products. Case in point the Pluton (or Ryoga in Japan), was very popular amongst anglers looking for a long casting, smooth performing reel for big baits. Perhaps sales plateaued or dipped, but Daiwa has yet to come out with a worthy replacement for that reel. Recently in Japan, the manufacturer introduced an update to their limited edition Black Sheep reel designed for targeting invasive snakehead. This reel is based off the Pluton/Ryoga product line only upsized for greater line capacity and blacked out for a stealthier, more hard core look. Here now is our look at Daiwa Japan's Ryoga Shrapnel.
I'd love to know how the Shrapnel stacks up against the 6500 class Abu Beast as a big-bait/swimbait reel. The two seem to cover similar ground. It would be very interesting indeed to know if there is a difference in casting efficiency; ie. the ability to launch a 3 ounce plug, loaded A-rig or 8" paddle tail to the horizon and then turn right around and handle LUS cranks with their often unpredictable aerodynamics. Thanks for an interesting review!
