The Shimano Curado DC 150 is a baitcaster with one very unique feature. It contains a digitally controlled braking system. In fasct, DC stands for “Digital Control.”
A computer chip inside the reel controls the centrifugal brakes. The chip can make 1000 adjustments per second.
Shimano has been developing digitally controlled reels for years. However, this is the first introduction of such a reel into the mainstream north American market.
What’s more, reels with this technology are normally very expensive. While the Curado DC is not an cheap reel, it’s much more affordable than other computer controlled baitcasting reels.
Shimano Curado DC Features
I-DC4 Technology
You may be wondering how the digital control feature prevents backlash. Well, as you cast your lure, the spool accelerates. This acceleration spins a magnet and coil creating an electrical current.
This current powers the chip and the braking system. As a result, there’s no need for batteries. The whole system is powered by the spinning of the spool.
Shimano calls this technology iDC4. The 4 is most likely meant to represent the 4 settings that are available in the Curado DC.
The reel has a dial on the front side plate that is opposite to the handle. This dial is how you set your braking preference.
Micromodule Gear
Micromudule gearing gives the Curado DC smoother operation. Smaller teeth on gears result in seamless operation and power transmission.
X-Ship
Optimal positioning and two point support for the pinion result in smoother reeling under heavy loads.
Hagane Body
Lightweight yet strong materials such as aluminum and magnesium are used to provide a rigid body that resists flexing.
CI4+
Components such as side plates are constructed with CI4, a lightweight carbon material that help make the reel easy to handle and well balanced.
Curado DC Specs
The Curado DC comes with many existing Shimano Technologies.
Micro Module Gears feature gears with smaller teeth. This provides for more contact points and a smoother feel.
Cross Carbon drag provides a greater drag range and the smoothest Shimano drag available.
Hagane body means that the body is made from cold forged metal alloys for greater stiffness.
The reel is available in 3 models.
The Curado DC 150, DC 150HG and DC150XG.
They all hold the following amounts of line:
Curado DC Line Capacity: Braid
- 20 pound Braid / 150 yards.
- 30 pound braid / 135 yards.
- 40 pound braid / 105 yards.
Curado DC Line Capacity: Mono
- 10 pound mono / 120 yards.
- 12 pound mono / 110 yards.
- 14 pound mono / 90 yards.
The weight is 7.8 ounces. It comes with 6 bearings plus 1 roller bearing. The drag maxes out at 11 pounds.
You can get the Curado DC in 3 gear ratios. The regular DC has a 6.2:1 gear ratio. The DCHG has a 7.4:1 gear ratio. And the DCXG has a 8.5:1 gear ratio.
The DC is also available in a left handed model with is designated as the DC151.
You can find out more on Shimano’s Site.
On the Water
Anglers often don’t know what to think when they first try the DC. Right off the bat, they notice the high pitched whirring sound the reel makes. The sound is very cool in my opinion. It’s almost like a tiny jet engine.
The sound is caused by the spool spinning up the electromagnet and activating the brakes hundreds of times per second. The computer chips applies the brakes repeatedly. It does this much more efficiently than a human could.
Curado DC Brake Settings
- Open – Used to open the side plate.
- 1 – Least Amount of Braking Force.
- 2 – Next Highest Brake Settings – Good For Braided Line.
- 3 – Next Highest – Good For Fluorocarbon Line.
- 4 – Highest Braking . Best For Beginners Or Light Lures.
You may think that the DC system is a gimmick that in intended for newbie baitcasters. This is not the case.
Shimano Curado DC vs SLX DC
Curado DC
- Hagane Body
- I-DC4
- Mocromodule Gearing
- X-Ship
- CI-4
SLX DC
- Hagane Body
- I-DC4
- CI-4
As you can see, the main differences between the Curado DC and the SLX DC are that the Curado has Micromodule gearing and X-Ship. The SLX Dc does not have these features.
For these differences, the price point of the Curado DC is significantly higher than the SLX DC.
Experienced Baitcasters
Experienced baitcasting reel users will be thrilled by the improvements in accuracy and distance you can get out of a DC reel. Casters who know what they’re doing can get casts in excess of 140 feet. Keep in mind that this will depend on the rod and lure being used.
Beginning Baitcasters
As for beginners, the reel is great if you’re new to baitcasters and trying to avoid backlash. When you set the DC to max braking, it will be very helpful.
Normally, when you cast, thumb pressure is used to prevent the spool from over spinning. This is especially true as the lure is at the end of the arc and when it hits the water. As the lure nears the water you lightly apply thumb pressure to slow down the spool.
If the spool were to continue to spin after the lure hits the water, you’ll get a birds nest. With the Curado DC, you hardly have to apply any thumb pressure at all.
If the spool were to continue to spin after the lure hits the water, you’ll get a birds nest. With the Curado DC, you hardly have to apply any thumb pressure at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rod for the Shimano Curado DC?
If you’re looking for a great rod to pair up with the Curado DC, check out the Shimano Expride line of rods.
These rods are a bit on the pricey side but they have great sensitivity. They also come in various lengths and actions to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for something a bit more reasonable priced, check out Dobyns rods. Specifically, take a look at the colt series. These rods have great reviews and won’t break the budget.
Staying with the Dobyns brand, you can check out the Fury series for a step up from the Colts. They’ll give you more sensitivity with only a slight bump up in prices.
Is the Shimano Curado DC Waterproof?
While the DC unit does run on electricity, it is sealed and even after you submerge the reel, it will continue to function.
Is the Shimano Curado DC good for saltwater use?
Yes, you can use the Curado DC in saltwater. Keep in mind that salt exposure may require more maintenance.
Do you need batteries for the Curado DC?
No, the Curado DC is powered by the high speed spinning of the spool.
Is the Shimano Curado DC price worth it?
This is a personal decision. You could save money and get an SLX DC. However, if your budget allows it, the Curado DC is definitely a great reel.
I am getting one for Christmas and I can’t wait!! I have been reading up on the reel and it WILL be under the tree along with a new rod to put it on!
It’s going to be a merry Christmas! Check out the SLX DC as well. Thanks for the comment.
I had a Curado K and thought it was great. The DC is so much better. A pleasure to use. Casts a country mile without having to worry about backlash. I now have 3 for different line classes and love them all. Best reels that I have ever used.
I find that casting a 3/8 Chatter Bait and Trailer (1oz in total) with a Medium Fast Rod I get more Birds Nests than when I use a Medium Heavy or Heavy casting Rod. Why is that ?
A medium fast rod tip will load up more with a heavy lure. This will result in faster acceleration of the lure as you release it. This will then lead to an overspin on the spool and a backlash. With a heavier lure and a medium action rod, you need to increase the spool tension and set your brakes accordingly.