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

Betty Tippett : Fast shipping

Was a great value for the money.

GIRARD : Impeccable

Envoi rapide, bien emballé, moulinet impeccable.

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.

Christian Erno : Smooth reel

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

Ralph L. : You get what you pay for.

This is a great ultra light reel and Shimano quality. I started to just buy one of those low cost reels with the hi bearing count but I'm used to having quality that I can easily get parts for if needed. I have Penn and Shimano reels that are so old they are obsolete and finally unable to get parts but they are still functional and catching fish so why buy throw away reel for half the price right!

HotLanta Customer : ... husband saw this in Cabela's and said he really liked it. The spinning action was very smooth and ...

My husband saw this in Cabela's and said he really liked it. The spinning action was very smooth and he wanted to get one soon. I got it for him as a surprise anniversary gift and he is SUPER happy.

DARIN : Great reel!

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

Nopeers : Five Stars

Shimano quality and extra smooth for smaller species

Cliente Amazon : Pescador principiante

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

Christian Erno : Smooth reel

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

Cliente de Amazon : Muy bueno

Muy bueno

Safe and sound : Appearance

Very neat reel!

Cliente Amazon : Sin bloqueo anti-reverse

No tiene bloqueo anti-reverse. No puedes soltar sedal girando el rotor hacia atrás.

Calvin : Smooth

Good reel for the price. I would buy this again. Shimano makes and offer a lot of reel but this one is built far better than the price it is listed at. This reel is comparable to reel twice its price point IMO.

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.

Clayton honeycutt : G

Good reel

Grace : Size

This reel is for small fish such as crappie and bluegill.

a96xz003 : Five Stars

no problems

Big O : Best setup

Currently paired with my Zodias. Best rod in my arsenal.

Moose : quality

Shimano has come a long way in building quality spinning reels. Still a little pricy but you can't beat the workmanship and the thought that goes into each reel. Bought a second and third one to replace my old gear.

Bruce M. : Well Built

well built. Great for Trout and Redfish.

Bruce M. : Well Built

well built. Great for Trout and Redfish.

olaviniao : Five Stars

Wonderful reel that arrived as expected.

ChiGuy : He Loves It.

Bought this reel for my grandson He Loves it!

Roy Smith : so far nice and smooth reel

Only used twice, so far nice and smooth reel.

RG : Five Stars

Nice reel.

Amazon Customer : Five Stars

Works great.. smooth

Christian Erno : Smooth reel

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

jamesrobinett : Sahara Spinning Reel.

Works smooth. Drag works great. Holds plenty of 20lb braided line.

Good overall spinning reel.

Ralph L. : You get what you pay for.

James Kern : Shimano Sahara 2500 - this is the low end model

I assumed all models of the Sahara would have the same features but was incorrect. There is a feature called line marking which is a visual check on how much line is on the reel. If you want to put a backing of 1/3 mono then fill the reel up with braid then this feature makes it easier. This reel does not have this feature. Also it does not have the anti-reversing feature so the only way to stop your reel from winding backwards is to tighten down on the drag. Since this wasn't a very expensive reel and seems to be well built I'll keep it and use it but it just feels a little dishonest that these "lack of features" aren't mentioned anywhere in the ad.

Steve S. : Reel is nice, spins freely

Reel is nice, spins freely. No good for ice fishing outside with braid. Line freezes and gets caught in the bail and the drag wouldn't work properly. Can't wait to try it this summer.

Ian Wilson : Ahh.. what kind of Reel should you get? This Reel!

Why choose any other reel? Honestly, it's smooth, probably the smoothest reel I've ever touched. It's flow is honestly magical. You'll know after you try this one. I used the 3000 for Bass fishing and couldn't have been happier. It has a quick ratio and now I'm using this one to help cast further for Crappie season. Don't settle for less.. I went through about 2-3 $30 reels before I realized this was a smart purchase. Don't see myself owning a different one ever..

GIRARD : Impeccable

Envoi rapide, bien emballé, moulinet impeccable.

Bruce M. : Well Built

well built. Great for Trout and Redfish.

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..

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