SHIMANO Calcutta B Round Reel review and price compare 2025
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Product overview
Brand
SHIMANO
Material
Metal
Hand Orientation
Right Hand
Color
Gold
Handle Material
Aluminum
Item Weight
1.2 Pounds
product features
The Calcutta series of reels represents the core of Shimano’s quality, versatility, dependability, and long-term value
This classic round reel will keep up with the fastest low profile reels for today’s fishing styles and is suitable for almost any application whether in fresh or saltwater
Built with super-strong, ultralight forged aluminum frames and side plates ensures that all parts will remain in perfect alignment for lifelong smooth power and solid rigidity
All sizes feature the ultra-smooth Dartanium Drags and the popular Speton Handles along with Anti-Rust Bearings
Max Drag: 17.5 lbs. / Gear Ratio: 5.0:1. / Weight: 11.7 oz. / Line Retrieve: 24" / Bearings: 3BB + 1RB – PowerPro Line Cap: 50/305,65/180,80/160 – Mono Line Cap: 12/330,14/260,20/160 / Retrieve: Right
From the manufacturer
Cold-forged aluminum frame, sideplates and spool
A-RB (Anti-Rust Bearings)
Variable Brake System
Super Stopper one-way roller bearing
Dartainium Drag for a wide range of drag settings
Assist Stopper reduces the stress on the one-way roller bearing
Calcutta B
The Calcutta series of reels represents the core of Shimano's quality, versatility, dependability and long-term value. In sizes from the ultralight 50 to the 30# class 700, there's a Calcutta reel for almost any application, in fresh or saltwater. With Dartanium Drag, A-RB (Anti-Rust Bearings), and Super Stopper, the Calcutta will give you years of solid performance.
Super Stopper anti-reverse uses a one-way stainless steel roller bearing that eliminates back-play. This provides the angler with instant hook setting power.
VBS
VBS uses centrifugal force rather than magnets to aid in controlling the cast. When turned on, the individual brake weights are forced outward at the beginning of the cast when backlashes most often occur, causing friction that reduces the speed of the spool. Once the spool speed begins to slow, the pressure with which the brake weights contact the raceway lessens, allowing the spool to continue spinning.
CF Aluminum Cold Forge Spool
These spools provide increased strength and durability over diecast aluminum or graphite spools.
Metal Series
The metal construction showcased in some of our finest reels now appears throughout our line of Metal Series products. Metal frames not only keep moving parts in precise alignment, they also feature the use of the latest anodizing, plating and painting techniques for beautiful and durable finishes.
product description
Shimano Calcutta series of reels represents the core of Shimano's quality, versatility, dependability and long-term value. In sizes from the ultralight 50 to the 30# class 700, there's a Calcutta reel for almost any application, in fresh or saltwater. With Dartanium Drag, A-RB (Anti-Rust Bearings), and Super Stopper, the Calcutta will give you years of solid performance.
product details
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
Product Dimensions : 7.09 x 7.09 x 7.87 inches; 1.2 Pounds
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Questions about SHIMANO Calcutta B Round Reel
Q:
Is this left or right handed?
Answer: Right handed. 201B is left handed.
Answer: Right handed. 201B is left handed.
Answer: It's a right handed reel
Answer: Right
Q:
Is this product OK to used in saltwater fishing?
Answer: one of the most popular reels used on the coast here in Louisiana,yes it is
Answer: Yes ,but u need to rinse off with warm soapy water at the end of each fishing trip.
Answer: Most definately.
Q:
The reel shown is a left hand, discription says right???
Q:
Is it good enough for musky double bladed cowgirls?
Answer: I have used this to land 35lb Chinook salmon this year on multiple times. I have trolled using 11in flashers with that with no issues.
Q:
Do you have Calcutta parts
Answer: We are a Shimano Authorized Repair Center and we have parts for the newer Calcutta's but some of the parts for the older reels are NLA. Phone - 516-868-8855.
Answer: No, sorry, we only sell the complete reel...
Q:
will you be getting more at this price. I notice its the last one you have. Is it a demo model?
Q:
What does the 200gtb mean?
Answer: The Shimano GTB is the enhanced version of the Shimano Calcutta B series. The GTB version is the flagship of the new Calcutta B lineup and gets the royal treatment when it comes to performance enhancing modifications. In addition to all the above mentioned features, the CT200GTB features a drilled crossbar to reduce weight, a massive +5 bearing count increase, and a Lo-Mass Drilled spool for improved casting capability. I'm afraid I can't answer your question as to what exactly the acronym means, only what it stands for in terms of the reel itself.
Q:
dose it have a bait clicker if so is it loud / strong
Answer: My Calcutta's clicker is very notice able when the fish is running with the bait. I have about 5 Calcutta 400b's (one being handed down to me and is over 5 years old) and all of the clickers have held up through out the years flawlessly. Very impressed!
Answer: Yes, it does have a clicker on it. It is not very loud, but very sensitive. It will click at the slightest pressure which gives the fish no indication of resistance. I love the sensitivity of this reel. It is smooth and can handle the heaviest fish on the other end. I use 80 lbs. power pro line fishing for catfish on the Colorado river and the All American Canal. I fish everyday and usually always come home with a couple of nice catfish.
Answer: Yes it does...works great and not too loud. Very smooth action.
Answer: Yes it has one..... It's small but the sound and feel is fine compared to the others I have.
Q:
What's the line line capacity with the 700?
Q:
Hi. Can I use it for surf with 12 feet rod?
Answer: While you certainly could use this reel in the surf, there are probably better choices. Depending on what you're fishing for, the reel has a limited line capacity of only 160 yards of 20 lb test mono (more braid). Probably the biggest concern is wear and corrosion: salt water and sand are a lethal combination and will significantly shorten the life span of the reel, especially one with tight tolerances and ball bearings such as the Shimano Calcutta. If you are willing to completely disassemble the reel and clean/relubricate it EVERY time you use it, you might get by.
Answer: It would work, but the line capacity is kind of low for surf fishing. I would look into an Avet reel, they have a great selection for surf fishing
Answer: Sure you can I would recommend using a braided line the spool is not as large as some surf reels
Answer: Yeah
Q:
What is a 30lb spectra line capacity for a calcutta B round reel?
Answer: Don't know about spectra specifically, but I found a chart for PowerPro braid:
Q:
Does the ct200b sit low in the reel seat?
Answer: Just slightly as the overall length is slightly shorter than larger reels. I use it on a 9' pole catching 25lb salmon with no issues.
Q:
Is this the 100B?
Answer: Yes that's the 100B. I have two of them and they are excellent reels.
Answer: In this picture, if you zoom in to the sideplate you will be able to see 100B written on it.
Answer: Yes
Answer: Yes it is
Answer: Yes it is
Answer: Yes
Q:
Is this model the 400B
Answer: Yes. Bought mine last year. Fantastic rig.
Answer: Yes, it is.
Q:
Is this a left or right handed reel
Answer: dont look at the picture 200 means right, 201 means left, thats how all shimano models work
Answer: Yes the reel pictured is a left hand reel
Answer: Right handed
Q:
dose it work for salt water and whats the high KG of fish i can drag with that and when did it made 2013 ?
Answer: I have alread fished 30kg fish with no problem it will depend on the line. I only fish in fresh water so I would not know if is also good for salt water.
Answer: Yes. I used it all the time, for salt water, used 18§ test line. Pull 20 lbs.reds all day long, sheephead, kingfish, and. macroe..
Answer: This is a great saltwater reel. I use it for slow jigging. So far 12lb snapper are not a problem.
Answer: Line Capacity-Mono: 12/330, 14/260, 20/160
Answer: It will depend on the line, for 90 Pounds around 110 yds
Q:
How much line can it hold
Q:
is this for fresh water only?
Answer: I live near the coast and specifically bought my Calcutta for Salt and brackish water fishing. I has many cold forged aluminum components which make it corrosion resistant. But still, you should always fresh-water rinse any tackle used in salt water after your trip if you want it to last.
Answer: No. The Calcutta is meant for saltwater 1st.
Answer: N0 . Great for saltwater.
Q:
Is this reel made in Japan?
Answer: Does the “b” indicate left handed reel. If not what does.
Answer: I don't know. I would worry more if it was made in India or China. Our American companies have moved to China, and Japan, but they are still American products. Just manufactured over there. It is a good reel, so don't hesitate to buy it.
Answer: Does it matter in a " world economy" where many parts of any product may come from different regions! It's an awesome piece of fishing hardware and if you're a serious fisher person, it will complement your arsenal! "Fish on!"
Answer: Yes
Q:
do you have left hand side
Q:
What is maximum drag for the Calcutta 400? This would translate to the test line and size fish I can use it for...
Answer: 18 pound drag.
Q:
Does it come in any other colors? My daughter wants a pink one.
Answer: I with that I could help your daughter, however the CT400B is only available in gold.
Answer: Hello,
Q:
Good afternoom, i would like to know if the shimano calcutta 700b round reel ct700b is left or right ? , it does not mention it in amazon, thanks
Answer: 700b is a right hand retrieve.
Answer: for right handed.
Answer: Right handed
Answer: I would assume it to be right, if not noted otherwise.
Q:
This is right or left??
Answer: If it’s 101, 201, 301 etc.... any number ending in 1, it’s left handed. If it’s 100, 200, 300 etc. ending in 0, it’s right handed. How shimano does all their reels
Answer: This one is a right handed reel but their a left handed one
Answer: Odd numbers have the handle on the left side, even on the right.
Q:
Can you put a bigger handle on this?
Q:
Purchased one of these less then a year ago and it seams the drag is set to high.. I can't release a 4 ounce sinker with it unless I grab the line
Answer: Reel is not designed for casting a 4 oz sinker
Answer: u need to adjust the spool tension, if u dont know how rake it to a local tackle shop and ave them show u how
Q:
Is the200b a right handed reel
Answer: Right Handed
Answer: Yes. 200B is right handed
Answer: Yes
Answer: yes, it is.
Q:
Is the Calcutta 400b a right handed reel
Answer: Yes, this reel you crank with you right hand
Answer: Yes it is
Answer: Yes
Q:
Is the ct200b smaller than a current abu garcia 5500c3 (swedish model)? thanks
Q:
The 700b model I want to buy is right handed, you have it?
Q:
Does 700 have power handle or regular baitcasting handle like tge 400?
Answer: Yes the 700B has a power handle.
Q:
I’ve heard good things on this reel, but I’d like to know if it’s good for baitcasting light weight plastics for bass fishing?
Answer: I would not recommend this reel for finesse type fishing. While the reels themselves are great they're better suited for bigger baits and/or for catfishing.
Answer: This reel will work with the right line for bass lures
Answer: Is a little bit too much for small lures ,I mainly use this reel for pier fishing and shore fishing.
Answer: Excellent reel, I use it for baitcasting, also bottom fishing for stripe bass, fluke and blues.
Q:
Is this a left hand model
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: No, it is a right hand model.
Answer: Hello
Q:
made in where?
Q:
Can the ct200b be palmed easily?
Answer: Yes, the reel is smaller than most and fits very comfortably.
Answer: Yes it's just the right size a fine fishing machine treat yourself
Answer: Yes.
Answer: Yes
Q:
Is the model 400b for right handed people?
Answer: The 400b comes in both right and left handed models. The "b," doesn't designate whether the reel is right or left handed. The b is just a reference for that particular Calcutta model. Right handed models are more popular. You'll know whether you're buying a right or left hand retrieve reel when reading the item description and going through check out.
Answer: Yes. The calcuttas (and most bait casters) have stock right handed cranks. I believe the only left handed shimano bait caster is the 401d. The "1" indicates a left handed crank. Hope that helps.
Answer: You should have an option to choose left or right. The "B" is for the design of the components that make up the reel. There are models of the 400. Make sure to read the full description so you get what you want. mine is a right handed. Awesome reel! Have fun!
Answer: That is what I got and that's what's pictured here. It has great action.
Answer: Yes
Q:
What is line capacity on 700?
Q:
If I want a left hand it has to 400b1 or 201b?
Q:
How is the cast-ability say compared to a Abu Garcia 6500 C3 or C4?
Answer:
Answer:
Answer: It casts just as well or better than the Abu Garcia 6500 C3 or C4. It has a well developed backlash control system that helps quite a bit. Aside from casting, I think you will find this a much more durable and reliable reel. Although the fish can't tell what gear you're using, this is indeed a beautiful reel.
Answer: I've never used an abu but it casts prety far just need to adjust the weights to suit your needs..i cast on mine and don even need to leave my thumb on the reel it just goes..a very nice reel
Answer: Better casts than any reel on the market today
Answer: This is a great reel best ever
Q:
Does this come in left handed?
Answer: Yes, the 201B is the left hand version.
Q:
looking for power handles calcutta200 and cardiff400 can you help ?
Answer: Yes a very strong ???? Handle easy to
Q:
Reel just came in today.... missing the brake knob on the side. Who can I contact for the part?
Answer: Shimano US
Q:
Does this 700B reel come left handed?
Answer: Not familiar with a left handed version in the 700 model. 400 and 200 have a left handed version
Q:
How many bearings in the 200gtb?
Answer: Sorry I do not recall - check the listing info should tell you
Q:
Is there a 401b
Q:
Is the 200b good for inshore fishing ; redfish, black drum etc..?
Answer: I bought the 400 but the 200 would be perfect for that type of fishing
Answer: For red fish, I would suggest a spinner not bait caster. Look at Sedona
Answer: For sure. It would work perfect for that
Q:
What line strength can you put on the 400B
Answer: Here is the line capacity of the CT400B reel: Mono 12/330,14/260,20/160; Braid: 50/305,65/180,80/160
Q:
Is the ct200b smaller than an Abu Garcia 5500c3? thanks
Answer: Shimano CT200b smaller.
Product reviews of SHIMANO Calcutta B Round Reel
Gojr888 : Great reel!!
I go salt water fishing here in south Florida three to four times a week! This is a great reel !! I would highly recommend it !
Lawrence May : Five Stars
Wonderful reel for redfish in northern FL
Jody : Best quality reel you can own
Best quality reel you can own! I have the series 200, now 400 and the 700B. Even the 700 will cast further than most reels even thought it carries a ton of line. The Calcutta series is to me....The highest quality reel one can buy. They truly are beyond impressive in every detail. Tip- braided line works best on these.
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
Good reel
will m. : 400b looks and feels good. My ONLY concern is that the reel wasn't ...
400b looks and feels good. My ONLY concern is that the reel wasn't strapped properly in the box. It was lose and sliding in the box. Also in the past when I purchased a shimano reel it came with little bottle of oil. This one did not come with its own oil.
ed mulato : Five Stars
Great
Rob Howe : Five Stars
High quality, smmoth, very well made. Use it for musky fishing.
angelo lemes : This item is so good to fishing big fishes
It’s so quickly
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
This is an excellent reel.
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
This is an excellent reel.
T : Shimano reels are amazing!
I bought this reel exclusively for musky fishing. After reading many reviews from many different sources this was the best choice for my price range. The forged aluminum body is exceptionally well made and looks gorgeous. The bearings are buttery smooth and whisper quiet. The drag is extremely easy to use and I love the large rubber grips on the handle. The clicker function is a nice feature for sucker fishing at the end of the season. As someone who has used many different reel companies I can honestly say the Japanese made Shimano reels are some of the best. There is a reason this reel is always rated extremely high from different review sites. Add a nice neoprene cover and this reel will stay looking brand new! Keep it clean and oiled and it will last years and years!
Harry Olander : awesome reel. I have the Calcutta 400B and just ...
awesome reel. I have the Calcutta 400B and just love how smooth this reel is so I bought the next model up.
Fernando G : Perfect for saltwater bassing
I've had the reel for five years and use it for pacific coast marine bass (Calico bass, Sand Bass, Spotted Bass). Off the rocks or on a boat around the kelp line and it hasn't failed me. Always rinse your gear off with fresh water before you put it away.
T : Shimano reels are amazing!
I bought this reel exclusively for musky fishing. After reading many reviews from many different sources this was the best choice for my price range. The forged aluminum body is exceptionally well made and looks gorgeous. The bearings are buttery smooth and whisper quiet. The drag is extremely easy to use and I love the large rubber grips on the handle. The clicker function is a nice feature for sucker fishing at the end of the season. As someone who has used many different reel companies I can honestly say the Japanese made Shimano reels are some of the best. There is a reason this reel is always rated extremely high from different review sites. Add a nice neoprene cover and this reel will stay looking brand new! Keep it clean and oiled and it will last years and years!
T B : I need to fish more often
Love these Reels
Rob Howe : Five Stars
High quality, smmoth, very well made. Use it for musky fishing.
D-in-Houston : Perfect reel
Very well engineered
Anthony N. Monti : He liked it
Gift to my son
Brian K : Smooth
These reels are smooth and feel like quality. Now I just need the fish to cooperate.
Gojr888 : Great reel!!
I go salt water fishing here in south Florida three to four times a week! This is a great reel !! I would highly recommend it !
Amazon Customer : Absolute Best Reel, ever for me
I have other bait casters Shimano and Bass Pro but this it hands down the best. casts great and the reeling action is smooth. It's so beautifully made that I almost don't want to use it and put wear and tear on it. I've been holding off on buying this because it is at the upper end of the price spectrum but I wish I bought it sooner.
Fabio G. Soares : Good Reel!
It is a good Reel, but what was already expected by Shimano Reels! Prices were ok! Overall satisfaction was good!
Bohl : Sheesh
Money good
Kindle Customer : Shimano Calcutta 400b Reel
I've got two of these reels now, ther'e just an outstanding piece of fishing gear, my first one is over 20 years old and has been trouble free, with regular cleaning and lubrication, I could'nt praise these reels high enough, recommend to all. I river fish for Salmon with these reels.
Casanova phillips : ... it's a reel but it works likes a tool love it. Cas Phillips
You must try it words cannot replace the feel an the thrill of this tool yes it's a reel but it works likes a tool love it .Cas Phillips
Amazon Customer : Great service great vendor and best of all super reel ...
Great service great vendor and best of all super reel I will be getting more in the Calcutta range cheers
dale jasien : I would like to get it replaced
This item broke down after using about five times, I would like to get it replaced. I liked the real just want one that works
BluefinTuna : Solid Reel - Very Happy with Purchase
I actually had a positive impression when reading reviews so I purchased (2). A very durable, high performance reel - exactly what I need for ocean fishing a few times per month. I like the finish, the grips on the handle, the large, wide spool for increased line capacity. The only thing that could be a bit better is the star drag - I like the fact it is metal - which it had more of a detent/had clicks with definate positions and wasn't as easy to accidently hit and unintentionally change/loosen. Overall very happy.
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
This is an excellent reel.
fred L. : Amazing reel
This is a great reel bought it for bottom fishing in Cali it was amazing not once but twice got tangled with someone line after coming up from 275 yards and bought not only my two fish but thier two fish as well with no problem with each fish weighing about 5-8 lbs
FishinDan49 : Time tested and highly recommended
I've owned a 400 for 12 years, I've had it serviced and re-spooled every year, like clockwork. I use it about 20-30 days per year, for inshore fishing, as well as offshore trips trolling for Kings and jigging for Grouper. It is very versatile, handles casting, trolling, & jigging with superior performance. Has a superior spool tension and drag system. About 5 years ago I started using it for freshwater trips respooling it with 14 lb mono, and found that it is a great freshwater reel also, especially for Stripper, Northern, Walleyes, Bass and larger fish. I recently paired it with a Shimano TMC-X70MH medium heavy extra fast action 7'0" Teramar Inshore rod rated for 15-25 lb line and 1/2- 1 1/2 oz lures, a really great match-up, for both freshwater and saltwater. This reel is reasonably priced, as is the aforementioned rod, and I highly recommend both of them, separately or together.
Lawrence May : Five Stars
Wonderful reel for redfish in northern FL
Miguel A Pacheco H : Five Stars
This is a classic! Every angler should have one! The reel is bulletproof! I highly recomend it!
Richard Jones : Calcuttas are that good!
These reels are the top of their class. You can't go wrong with them. I own 4 and have zero issues and they are capable of landing big fish with their smooth drags. Highly recommended!
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
Good reel
Raul alberto : Five Stars
Very happy
Devon J. : Ripping lips
Bought this as a Christmas present for my son. He loves it and is now his favorite reel.
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
great reel
STEVEN ROUNTREE : Five Stars
VERY SATISFIED
Mark Meier : Five Stars
Great durable reel.
John boyer : Very nice product
Great!
Jody : Best quality reel you can own
Best quality reel you can own! I have the series 200, now 400 and the 700B. Even the 700 will cast further than most reels even thought it carries a ton of line. The Calcutta series is to me....The highest quality reel one can buy. They truly are beyond impressive in every detail. Tip- braided line works best on these.
AlexB : Broken thumb button on arrival. Reel inoperable.
The thumb button was broken on delivery. This is ridiculous for a $200+ piece of fishing equipment. They couldn’t even check the basic functionality prior to shipment?
Can’t say it was damaged during shipping. Shimano’s are some of the most durable reels out there. The only way it could have been damaged during shipment is if the box was crushed, and it came completely in tact.
I’m actually concerned this may be a fake product, because I really don’t think Shimano’s quality control is this bad.
Very disappointed. Do not buy.
Kindle Customer : Shimano Calcutta 400b Reel
I've got two of these reels now, ther'e just an outstanding piece of fishing gear, my first one is over 20 years old and has been trouble free, with regular cleaning and lubrication, I could'nt praise these reels high enough, recommend to all. I river fish for Salmon with these reels.
bobby h. : Five Stars
Great reel, a little pricie ,but wrought it.
Amazon Customer : Five Stars
Definitely worth the extra money!
kurt g. : Amazing little reel
Must have for inshore fishing. Nothing beats a gold Shimano reel. Super smooth and sleek. Paired with a saint croix rod and it cannot be matched.
John Dillard : Top Notch
High quality reel that is a joy to use. Smooth as silk and will last for quite a while. I have always wanted a nice reel like this and sure enjoy this one!
Tim : Great reel
Catch big group and red on it. Works great.
Kindle Customer : I had to return it due to a malfunction with the drag
I gave it 3stars instead of 1 due to the fact that I have the same reel that is 2 years and is a good reel
you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you