SHIMANO Sahara Fi Spinning Reel review and price compare 2025

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Product overview

Brand	SHIMANO
Material	Aluminium
Color	Black
Handle Material	Aluminum
Item Weight	250 Grams
Bearing Material	Aluminum

product features

Line retrieve per crank: 29 inch, Gear ratio: 5.0:1
Mono line capacity (lbs/yd): 6/200, 8/140, 10/120
PowerPro line capacity (lbs/yd): 10/150, 15/145, 30/100
Max. drag force: 20 lbs / 9 kilogramm, Ballbearings: 4 and 1
Weight: 8.8 ounce / 250 gramm

product description

Shimano Sahara 2500 FI. Fishing reel, model 2017, The new Sahara FI is a powerful spinning reel which is developed to give the angler unparalleled durability at its price point. The durability of the Sahara stems from the cold forged Hagane Gearing which is incorporated in its GFree Body. The GFree Body helps to reduce fatigue and enhance casting comfort on long fishing sessions due to the location of the inner systems closer to the rod. The stiff XT 7 body creates perfect protection and support for the HAGANE Gear and the X Ship system to work to their maximum effect and efficiency. The Sahara is available in sizes from 1000 to 5000 and it offers both durable performance and value that will appeal to a wide audience of anglers. Features: HAGANE Gear, GFree Body, X SHIP, AR C Spool, Varispeed II, Power Roller, Cold Forged Aluminium spool. Specifications size 2500: Line Retrieve Per Crank: 29 inch, Gear ratio: 5.0:1, Mono line capacity (lbs/yd): 6/200, 8/140, 10/120, PowerPro line capacity (lbs/yd): 10/150, 15/145, 30/100, Max. Drag force: 20 lbs / 9 kilogramm, Ballbearings: 4 and 1, Weight: 8.8 ounce / 250 gramm

product details

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 6 x 6 inches; 8.82 Ounces
Item model number ‏ : ‎ SH2500FI
Department ‏ : ‎ Unisex
Date First Available ‏ : ‎ January 12, 2017
Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Shimano
ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01MUABWKK

important information

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Questions about SHIMANO Sahara Fi Spinning Reel

Hi, does the 2500 come with 2 spools? Thanks Shane

Answer: I only received one spool.

what does the no color mean compared to the gold and black ?

Answer: Nothing, it's just black and gold

Answer: It refers to the 1000 size reel. I believe.

Can i use it in freshwater?

Answer: I would definitely use this for freshwater fishing.

Answer: Yes. The reel is very light for smaller fish. I caught a nice smaller 1 lb + bass. The reel is also built to handle the much more abrasive salt water, but again for the smaller range of fish. I will use mine for trout fishing this winter.

Answer: Absolutely

Answer: Of course

Is the 2500 and the 3000 spool able to be switched out on same model reels?

What’s the gear speed?

whats the difference between 4000 and 4000xg?

Does the shimano sahara fi spinning reel feature infinite anti-reverse?

Does this have anti-reverse?

Answer: Yes it does

Does this product cause cancer?

Answer: Yes, but only in California: WARNING:

Answer: In California they think everything causes cancer. Their pussies!

Any problems with saltwater?

Answer: No problems.

Where is the anti-reverse switch?

Answer: all new Shimano reels do not have an anti-reverse switch - Shimano removed them completely. The reels are now more water resistant and the switch is indeed no need.

Answer: The Sahara doesn't have an anti reverse switch

Answer: I totally disagree that they are not needed. I have older models Shimano reels with the anti-reverse switch and I bought a newer Sedona without the anti-reverse. I can't stand it. Too many times that I prefer to have a free spool and would rather have it available.

Where is this reel manufactured?

Answer: I want to say Malaysia...........

Would this match well with a 7’ medium rod?

Answer: This is more of a light weight / ultralight reel. Recommend you go with the 2500 on a 7ft medium rod

Answer: 2500 size would match very well. I wouldn't throw a 1000 on a 7' med though.

Cuantas libras de arrastre tiene el modelo 500 FE

Is the C3000DH a front drag reel or rear drag?

Answer: It is a compact 3000 size with a double handle that has a front drag.

Answer: I don't know to answer to that question....

Does the bail return to the position to be opened for a cast? Or any position where it can’t be opened?

Answer: open real you open to cast real in and the bail closes

What is the best rod to pair with this reel? I was looking at the st croix ultra light fast 5’6 specifically to fish for brook trout.

Answer: That might be a little light on the rod action- I paired mine with a Med/light 6’9” st croix- perfect for ned rig- although if you go with the small one (110 yrds of 6lb rating) should be perfect with 4lb line

Answer: Hi if you are going with the 1000 size reel then that god you picked is nice for it , if you go with the 2500 reel then you mite want to go with a 6 “ foot rod or bigger 6.6 , with my 2500 reel I have paired up with a basspro tourney special heavy action 6”foot one piece rod , love it for bass fishing with jigs and worms.

Answer: In my opinion that would be a great choice. I have a 5’6” loomis that I use for all light jig applications. Good fishing!

Answer: I paired it with a 6’6” ugly stick, my grandson loves it

What shimano setup would you suggest for cat fishing?

Answer: I would suggest something a little larger. Like the Sahara 5000. By far my favorite spinning reel and you can't beat the price. Also I'd pair it with a 7ft medium heavy rod

Is this considered reversable hands? Either left or right handed?

Answer: Yes, most spinning reels can be left or right. Very simple to do, just in thread the handle from one side and move to other side. There’s usually a cap covereing the threaded hole in the opposite side.

Answer: Yes it is reversible.

Answer: yes

Answer: GOOGLE IS YOUR FRIEND

Is this the 2500FE?

Answer: No this is the 1000FE. The 2500FE would have a 6lb/200yd, 8lb/140yd, and 10lb/120yd capacity (in mono line).

Answer: No this is the 1000fe.Small to medium applications,I use it with a 6'6" medium lite rod with 6lb mono or 4lb dia Suffix braid.

Answer: No, it is the 1000FE.

Answer: I'm sorry, I don't know. I purchased it under the direction of my son and wasn't up on the specifics.

What kind of staff washers are used in this reel? Felt or carbon?

Answer: Felt. First cast and first hook up with a 30min fight. Have to change them out soon.

Does this reel come in a box or a plastic casing?

Answer: A box.

The photo here doesn't match the shimano sh2500fi.....can anyone confirm that this is the new 2017 model in the blue box? thanks!

Answer: The one I purchased in blue box is exactly the same including the gold handle arm. However the black handle on the arm on mine is smaller. so I suspect but not sure that they enlarged the plastic black handle as a newer model!!

Answer: It is. Light blue box.

Can u use this for saltwater

Answer: Yes, I have three of these and they are the only reels I use and I only fish saltwater. Just be sure to rinse off well after each use. Warm water works best

Answer: Need to get on Shimano web site.

what country is this made?

Answer: This reels are Made in the Shimano factory in Malaysia - similar all Shimano reels are made there - except of the high end models like Stella...

Answer: japan

What's the difference between the 2500 and the 2500 hgs? thanks!

Answer: The S stands for "Shallow" Means a lower line capacity and not so deep spool like the standard 2500 spool.

Is this a good reel and size for Bass fishing?

Answer: Yes, great reel, super smooth. use for Large mouth, small mouth, walleye and perch.

Answer: Yes!!

Is it good for catfish ?

Answer: No. This model is too small for catfish over 4-5 pounds.

Answer: Sorry I only fish for bass, I can’t help!

Answer: YES THE BEST FOR CATS.

Is this an legit shimano reel or bootleg?

Answer: It was legit a year or two ago. It’s just a lighter spinning reel. I use it for pond fishing.

Answer: It is Legit for the money. I just messed with one at the local fish store and it was a smooth reel.

Answer: I gave it as a gift, there was no issues with quality or workman. I have no complains from the person I gave it too

Answer: Mine is solid, I would buy again.

Plz size of box i want to cost the shipping cost

Dose the reel come in a box or a plastic casing?

Answer: Mine come in a box

Answer: My reel came in a small box.

Answer: Does this reel come with a spare spool?

Answer: comes in box with instructions its very nice

Answer: I believe mine came in a box. I'm not sure if the same model are always packaged the same way from Shimano.

Is this reel for saltwater?

Answer: Does not mention saltwater so it would be safe to say it is not made for saltwater. Great reel for light weight line.

Where is this reel manufactured?

Answer: I want to say Malaysia...........

What does “FI” stand for?

Answer: No clue! Sorry,

Product reviews of SHIMANO Sahara Fi Spinning Reel

Jerry : Thanks this is a very nice reel it was shipped fast

Thanks this is a very nice reel it was shipped fast . I already used it for crappie works awsome I will do business with you guys again

Don DeShane : Five Stars

Good quality reel with most of the features of the more expensive Shimano's with out the high cost.

Schmedley Van Der Pas : worst reel I've ever owned

worst reel I've ever owned. used it one time and the bail will not return. what a way to ruin opening day. always heard raves about shimano but not from this guy. :-( back to pflueger

Luca : Ottimo prodotto a un ottimo prezzo

Cercavo un mulinello piccolo e potente da montare su una 7 piedi per un light spinning e shimano a superato le mie aspettative!!!
Il suo punto di forza è il rapporto qualità/prezzo con 50 euro non solo porti a casa un buon mulinello fatto bene ma che puo competere con mulinelli di fascia superiore a 100 euro a salire. Tempi rapidissimi consegna in 2 giorni!!!

Bob Wills : Excellent purchase

Was looking for a replacement spinning reel & this one fits the bill perfectly. It may be classed as a freshwater reel but purchased for sea fishing, my previous Garcia Mitchell 440a was 35yrs old & used entirely for sea fishing, still working but looking a little tired now hence replacement, just clean after use & it should be fine. Very smooth running & not missing the anti- reverse, highly recommended.

Jcchevy1 : Great reel

One of the best reels made I my opinion I love this reel it’s so smooth and cast far and the drag is great

Luca : Ottimo prodotto a un ottimo prezzo

Don DeShane : Five Stars

Good quality reel with most of the features of the more expensive Shimano's with out the high cost.

Otto B. : Top Gerne wieder.

Top Gerne wieder.

Amazon Customer : Broke.

I love the feel of this reel. Unfortunately after just 1 month I slipped and the reel dropped to the floor and cracked in half. Accidents happen but I would expect something with Shimano's reputation to be far stronger than this.

Tammy L. Radford : Great buy!

Fast shipping, great price!

olaviniao : Five Stars

Wonderful reel that arrived as expected.

Michael D. Hoffman : Very nice reel

I have a couple of these and started purchasing them a couple years ago,my new go to reel I fixed to my best rods.Very light ,strong ,and smooth,I highly recommend them.The service from amazons vendor was lightning fast.

Christian Erno : Smooth reel

Fantastic reel. Very smooth. Works fantastic fishing for Smallmouth bass with 15lb Power Pro Super Slick 8 v2 line.

Betty Tippett : Fast shipping

Was a great value for the money.

Amazon Kunde : Top

Top

Nopeers : Five Stars

Shimano quality and extra smooth for smaller species

Amazon Customer : Bought it as a Birthday gift and it did not ...

Bought it as a Birthday gift and it did not fall short of putting the biggest smile on my boyfriends face!

Dan : Good quality.

It’s been a good reel. Bought for wife and you can feel the quality over the majority of our other “cheap” reels.

Safe and sound : Appearance

Very neat reel!

AP_WV : so I bought this for my ultra light after the $20 reel that was on there started going bad. I ultimately chose this reel because

Have a Sahara 4000 on my larger pole, so I bought this for my ultra light after the $20 reel that was on there started going bad. I ultimately chose this reel because I've had good experiences with Shimano reels in the past and this was about the only reel at this size & price point that had a 6:1 gear ratio. I can definitely notice a difference in casting and reeling. Construction looks solid and with proper maintenance will probably never need to purchase another reel for my ultra light pole.

Only con is the bail is still a bit tough, but it should settle in after more use.

john oram : Great reel

Great reel for micro jig fishing

AP_WV : so I bought this for my ultra light after the $20 reel that was on there started going bad. I ultimately chose this reel because

Safe and sound : Appearance

Very neat reel!

Dennis : Besseres erwartet

Ich habe von der Rolle mehr erwartet. Das Drehen der Spule scheint nicht flüssig zu laufen. Da ist die Daiwa Ninja wesentlich besser aufgehoben. Also nicht hervorragend gemacht..

David Banducci : Don't fill spool all the way as line will come off when casting and bird nest

Pretty good quality

Daniel : One Star

Wrong item. Wow

Vic le pecheur : Leger

Super produit de qualité
Je suis très satisfait et j'ai utilisé rapidement...agréable et efficace
Je recommande

Dennis : Besseres erwartet

Ich habe von der Rolle mehr erwartet. Das Drehen der Spule scheint nicht flüssig zu laufen. Da ist die Daiwa Ninja wesentlich besser aufgehoben. Also nicht hervorragend gemacht..

GIRARD : Impeccable

Envoi rapide, bien emballé, moulinet impeccable.

Cliente Amazon : Pescador principiante

El carrete tiene buena pinta y parece resistente pero vino la caja abierta dentro del envalaje.

RG : Five Stars

Nice reel.

Jerry : Thanks this is a very nice reel it was shipped fast

Thanks this is a very nice reel it was shipped fast . I already used it for crappie works awsome I will do business with you guys again

RG : Five Stars

Nice reel.

Jcchevy1 : Great reel

One of the best reels made I my opinion I love this reel it’s so smooth and cast far and the drag is great

DARIN : Great reel!

Product was as advertised and arrived on time. No issues at all.

you can compare the product price from Costco, wayfair, bestbuy, lowes, target, homedepot, Walmart, ebay, amazon to find the best price for you