Baitcaster Reels
Shimano Metanium MGL

Shimano Metanium MGL Review

94
Rated 94.2/100 overall based on feedback from 3 users
Smoothness
10
Drag Quality
9
Casting
10
Reel Value
8
Superb

Redesigned in 2020, the Shimano Metanium MGL 150 B is the most advanced Metanium ever put to market. Cast lightweight baits a mile with ease and enjoy durability and smoothness that is truly tough to match. This reel is something special.

Estimated price: $449
  • Available in 6.2:1, 7.1:1 and 8.1:1 gear ratios.
  • Magnesium CoreSolid body
  • MGL III spool for incredible casting distance and accuracy
  • SVS infinity braking
  • 11lb max drag

Summarized feedback from Bass Anglers

Reasons to buy

  • Magnesium CoreSolid body is incredibly tough while still being very lightweight
  • MGL III spool is light and reduces casting inertia at the beginning of the cast. This allows you to cast further, and to throw super light lures on a baitcasting setup with confidence
  • Many anglers say this is the smoothest feeling reel they have ever used
  • The brass MicroModule main gear is optimized for durability and long-term smoothness
  • SVS Infinity braking system is easily adjustable, meaning you can fine tune for different lure weights
  • Many anglers praise the overall casting ability of this reel. Casting a Metanium has been compared in feel to "cutting through room temperature butter"
  • Palmable and very comfortable to fish with for long periods
  • Great option if you have some budget and struggle with backlashes. Its incredibly forgiving, even with lighter lures

Reasons not to buy

  • I mean, lets face it, this reel is very expensive. Some feel the premium experience it offers doesn't justify the price
  • Some say the Chronarch 150 MGL, a cheaper reel casts light lures better
  • Some say the drag is a little underpowered at 11lb max

Reviews from our Readers

94
94.2/100
3 users
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Review this product
Smoothness
10
Drag Quality
9
Casting
10
Reel Value
8
Overall rating
98
Reviewed by:
Feb 09, 2023
Yes, its expensive, but for me the Metanium MGL offers the best baitcasting experience you can get. It is buttery smooth, comfortable to hold and casts better than any other reel I have used. You can throw a 4 inch weightless Senko a mile with this thing, even into the wind. Worth every dollar I paid for it and more.
Overall rating
90
Reviewed by:
Feb 09, 2023
Lightweight, strong and oh so smooth. Without a doubt the best Shimano have ever made in my opinion. I only wish the drag was a little stronger. 11lb is a little low for a reel in this price range. Regardless, this is an incredible reel. Pick one up if you can afford the price tag.
Overall rating
95
Reviewed by: Richard
Dec 02, 2022
This reel is expensive but you get what you pay for. Incredibly smooth with fantastic castability. Highly recommended for those looking for a truly premium reel.

Bottom Line

The Metanium MGL is a high-performance reel that is up there with the best, and has a price tag to match. It is about as smooth as a reel can get, as confirmed by just about every angler that has reviewed it across the web. Additionally, it is comfortable to fish and lightweight, making it the perfect "all-day" reel. Not to mention, it just looks so good on any rod.

The Metanium casts an absolute mile thanks to its MGL III spool and easy-to-adjust SVS Infinity braking system. Want a baitcaster that can cast featherlight lures? You are going to struggle to beat this one. The only consistent complaint from some anglers is that the 11lb max drag is a little underpowered for a reel of this price. The most common use for this reel however is for lighter presentations, anglers using it for this use-case have no issue with the drag at all.

The Metanium MGL is kind of like the Ferrari of Shimano baitcasters. Will using a baitcaster that provides optimal smoothness, comfort and build quality put more fish in the boat? Probably no more so than some of the other high-mid range options on the market. But one thing is for sure, its going to feel great fishing with it, and there is a lot to be said for that!

Did we mention that it looks so good it is basically a work of art?

FAQ's

What gear ratio is the Metanium MGL?

The Metanium MGL is available in 6.2:1, 7.1:1 and 8.1:1 gear ratios.

What size is the Metanium MGL Spool?

The Shimano Metanium MGL 150 B spool has a width of 19mm and an outer diameter of 34mm. See information on line capacity below:

Monofilament line capacity (lb test/yd):
  • 10/120
  • 12/110
  • 14/90
Braid line capacity (lb test/yd):
  • 20/150
  • 30/135
  • 40/105

How much does a Shimano Metanium MGL weight?

The Metanium MGL weighs 6.3 OZ, with the exception of the XGB model which is slightly heavier at 6.5 OZ. It is an incredibly lightweight baitcaster.

Is the Metanium worth it?

Its no secret that the Metanium comes with a heavy price tag. If you are looking for an optimal baitcasting experience, comprising of low weight, comfort, smoothness and the ability to cast ultra light lures with ease, the Metanium is absolutely worth it. If you are looking for a baitcaster that performs well and you aren't too concerned about these luxuries, there are more affordable options out there that will suit you well. The Chronarch 150 MGL for example is a fantastic, more affordable option.

About the brand

Shimano is arguably the biggest and most respected name in fishing. They are responsible for producing some of the most ground-breaking tackle ever seen, and they continue to lead the market in all forms of fishing.

Shimano has taken a key interest in bass fishing, and have developed the finest baitcasting reels on today's shelves. Many other brands constantly look to Shimano for ideas, as they seldom put a foot wrong.

You simply cannot go wrong with a piece of Shimano gear.

Professionals who work with Shimano:

  • Keith Combs
  • Brett Preuett
  • Bernie Shultz