Let’s Talk About Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927
The Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927 is a conventional reel designed for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, embodying the ruggedness and reliability the Shakespeare brand is known for. Priced affordably, it aims to provide anglers with a dependable tool without breaking the bank.
My fishing buddy, Dave, had been nagging me to try trolling for walleye on Lake Erie for ages. I needed a reel that could handle the heavier lines and the potential for a serious fight, but I didn’t want to invest in a high-end setup right away. The Shakespeare ATS30B Agility seemed like the perfect entry point.
Unboxing the reel, my initial impression was of a solid, no-nonsense piece of gear. It’s not flashy, but the graphite frame felt sturdy, and the handle turned smoothly. The weight felt appropriate for a reel of this size; not too heavy to be cumbersome, but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Compared to my older, smaller baitcasting reels, the ATS30B Agility felt like a step up in terms of size and power. I considered a couple of other budget-friendly conventional reels from lesser-known brands, but I ultimately chose the Shakespeare for its established reputation for durability.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to spool it up and see how it performed under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Shakespeare ATS30B Agility on that long-awaited Lake Erie walleye trolling trip with Dave. We were using lead core line and diving plugs, targeting depths of around 25 feet. The weather was overcast, with a light chop on the water.
The reel performed surprisingly well in these conditions. The 6.3:1 gear ratio provided a good balance of power and speed for retrieving the heavy line and fighting fish. No issues at all.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the bait clicker, while functional, wasn’t as loud as I would have liked. It was difficult to hear over the boat’s engine, making it necessary to keep a close eye on the rod tip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of trolling, the Shakespeare ATS30B Agility has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the graphite frame, but no signs of any significant wear or damage. The reel still feels smooth, and the drag remains consistent.
I rinse the reel with fresh water after each use and apply a light coat of reel oil to the moving parts every few trips. This minimal maintenance seems to be sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Compared to some of my other, more expensive reels, the ATS30B Agility might not have the same level of refinement, but it certainly punches above its weight in terms of durability and reliability. For its price point, it has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927
Specifications
Reel Size: 30 – This designates the reel’s overall capacity and size, suitable for medium to heavier line and larger fish.
Bearing Count: 2 – Two ball bearings contribute to smoother operation, but this is a fairly basic bearing count.
Mono Capacity (yds./lbs.): 580/14, 400/20, 315/25 – Indicates the amount of monofilament line the reel can hold at different pound test ratings. This is a generous capacity for a reel of this size.
Gear Ratio: 6.3:1 – This means the spool rotates 6.3 times for every one turn of the handle, providing a good balance between power and retrieve speed.
Reel Spool Material: Graphite – Graphite is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material commonly used in reel construction. It helps keep the overall weight down.
Reel Handle Position: Right – This reel is designed for right-handed anglers.
Max Drag: 20 lb. – The maximum amount of pressure the drag system can apply to a running fish. 20lbs is sufficient for many freshwater and smaller saltwater species.
Braid Capacity: 280/30, 230/40, 195/50 – Shows the amount of braided line the reel can hold at various pound test ratings. Braid’s smaller diameter allows for greater capacity.
Drag Material: Multi Disc – A multi-disc drag system generally provides smoother and more consistent drag performance compared to a single-disc system.
Retrieve Rate: 30 – This describes the amount of line (in inches) retrieved with each full turn of the reel handle. This is a relatively standard retrieve rate.
These specifications indicate a reel suitable for general purpose fishing, especially trolling and bait fishing, with good line capacity and a decent drag system. The low bearing count, however, suggests the reel may not be as smooth as higher-end models.
Performance & Functionality
The Shakespeare ATS30B Agility performs its intended job of line retrieval and fish fighting adequately. The drag system is relatively smooth, and the gear ratio provides a good balance of power and speed.
Its main weakness lies in its overall smoothness. With only two ball bearings, it lacks the refined feel of higher-end reels.
The reel definitely meets expectations for its price range. It’s a reliable workhorse, but not a high-performance machine.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for a reel in this price range. The graphite frame feels sturdy, and the handle is comfortable to grip.
The reel is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. There’s no steep learning curve involved in using it.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Shakespeare ATS30B Agility should last for several seasons of regular use. The graphite frame is corrosion-resistant, and the internal components seem reasonably durable.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication. No specialized tools or expertise are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shakespeare ATS30B Agility comes with no included accessories beyond the reel itself. Customization options are limited.
While you could theoretically replace the handle or drag washers, it’s probably not worth the effort or expense on a reel in this price range. It is designed for general use and not intended for extensive modification.
Pros and Cons of Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927
Pros
- Affordable Price: The low price point makes this an excellent entry-level conventional reel.
- Good Line Capacity: Holds a substantial amount of line, suitable for various fishing applications.
- Decent Drag System: Provides adequate drag pressure for fighting most freshwater and smaller saltwater species.
- Durable Construction: Graphite frame offers good corrosion resistance and overall durability.
- Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive design, suitable for beginners.
Cons
- Low Bearing Count: Only two ball bearings result in less smooth operation compared to higher-end reels.
- Bait Clicker Volume: The bait clicker could be louder for better audibility in noisy environments.
Who Should Buy Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927?
Perfect for: Anglers on a budget, beginners looking for an affordable entry point into conventional reel fishing, those needing a reliable backup reel for trolling or bait fishing.
Who should skip this product? Anglers seeking high-performance reels with ultra-smooth operation, those targeting very large or powerful saltwater species requiring heavier drag systems, and individuals who value a high degree of customization options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider high-quality fishing line appropriate for your target species, and potentially a louder bait clicker if you find the stock one inadequate. Otherwise, the reel is ready to go out of the box.
Conclusion on Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927
The Shakespeare ATS30B Agility 6.3:1 2bb 1366927 is a solid, no-frills conventional reel that offers excellent value for its price. While it may not be the smoothest or most feature-rich reel on the market, it provides reliable performance and durable construction.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It is a workhorse reel that won’t break the bank.
I would definitely recommend it to anglers looking for an affordable and dependable entry-level conventional reel. If you need a reel that can handle the basics without emptying your wallet, the Shakespeare ATS30B Agility is a great choice. Give it a try; you might be surprised at what you catch!