Leaders never settle while redefining innovation. Instead, they maintain a trajectory of infinite evolution. The iconic heritage of the Shimano Stella family embodies this mindset with the debut of the new Stella FK, a reel packed with innovative technologies that enhance power and durability, drag performance and line management. Loaded with industry-leading features, the redesigned Stella represents the pinnacle of Shimano reel engineering and enhances the on-the-water experience of every angler.
The Shimano legacy of high-precision gear development continues to evolve within the all-new InfinityXross system, making its debut in the Stella FK family of reels. InfinityXross expands the drive gear tooth horizontally, dispersing load between the drive gear and pinion gear more efficiently. By distributing contact points over a larger surface area, Stella’s InfinityXross system delivers unrivaled gear durability to enhance reel performance and longevity.
Shimano’s technologically-advanced InfinityDrive system is the heart of the new Stella FK. Passed down from Stella’s larger saltwater brethren and making its debut in a small spinning reel, InfinityDrive features a unique low-friction bushing that significantly decreases frictional resistance, delivering smoother and more powerful winding. A proprietary surface treatment on the main shaft coupled with special processing drastically reduce rotational torque, yielding a reel that can actively wind even under heavy loads – dramatically benefiting anglers when fighting stubborn game fish.
Shimano’s new DuraCross drag system fortifies the new Stella FK family with enhanced run-stopping power coupled with extreme durability. Revolutionary DuraCross drag washers incorporate cutting-edge materials woven in a unique pattern compared to conventional drag washers. The DuraCross drag system provides the smooth feel and operation of felt washers but with ten-times the durability. Thanks to Stella FK’s new DuraCross drag, anglers will have the advantage in every battle.
Stella’s line management innovations begin with the new InfinityLoop system. By extending spool oscillation during the retrieve, InfinityLoop ensures the line lays as evenly as possible on the spool, virtually eliminating gaps and line stacking during the retrieve. InfinityLoop benefits anglers on every cast, as smooth and even line lay results in reduced friction as line departs the spool, yielding dramatically enhanced casting distance.
Anglers fishing with monofilament or fluorocarbon main lines are familiar with the challenge of line twist. Stella FK’s new Anti-Twist Fin eliminates line twist that may develop while fishing, especially as anglers present artificial lures. This Shimano innovation is an elastic polymer tab placed on the underside of the roller that Shimano engineers designed to maintain constant tension on the line as it enters the spool. This Stella-exclusive system eliminates twist before line contacts the roller and prevents line from sagging on the spool during the retrieve. The days of line twist – and the angler frustration it creates – are numbered.
A refined Propulsion Line Management System completes the array of technological innovations in the redesigned Stella FK. By adjusting the angle of the spool’s upper lip and reducing the edge of the drag knob, the new Propulsion Line Management System results in fewer tangles should anglers inadvertently throw a loop into their line during a cast or retrieve. By combining improved line management with enhanced reeling and drag performance, Stella FK is a powerful new ally for anglers who demand the very best.
A foundation of premium technologies supports all of the best-in-class innovations that permeate the Stella FK family. A lightweight and robust magnesium HAGANE Body and a cold-forged HAGANE Gear fortify Stella FK for enhanced durability. The reel’s MicroModule II gear tooth refinements and SilentDrive system provide for amazingly smooth and quiet reeling. Stella’s extreme water resistance, provided by Shimano’s X-Protect system and shielded S A-RB bearings, enhances its longevity. No other spinning reel can claim a stronger legacy or a brighter future.
Evolution is a history of innovation based on legacy. Future possibilities are limitless. The journey of Stella never ends. Look for the Stella FK in five sizes ranging from 1000 to C5000 (MSRP $749.99 to $799.99) at authorized Shimano dealers this spring – and mounted on the rods of passionate anglers around the world soon thereafter.
Media Contacts: Dena Woerner-Vick dena@kingeiderpr.com 501-749-4575
Andrew Cox acox@shimano.com 843-805-2139
About Shimano:
Leading the fishing industry in innovation and quality for 100 years, Shimano’s manufacturing capabilities allow for anglers worldwide to enjoy their time on the water to the fullest. We designed the entire lineup of Shimano products to elevate angler experiences with features that continuously evolve to push the boundaries of modern fishing tackle while raising the bar for the whole fishing industry.