Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel Review

First Impressions of Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel arrives like a promise kept, a tangible manifestation of years of angling innovation. Daiwa, a name synonymous with quality, has delivered a reel that seems poised to redefine the standards for saltwater spinning performance. Its imposing size, sleek black finish, and the subtle glint of metal promise a blend of power and refinement that demands a closer look.

My search for a true bluewater spinning reel led me to the Certate SW G 18000. I needed a reel that could handle hard-fighting tuna, stubborn amberjack, and maybe even a small marlin without breaking a sweat. I’d grown weary of reels that felt like they were straining under pressure, leaving me with the nagging fear of a catastrophic failure at the worst possible moment.

The Certate SW G 18000 comes packaged securely, nestled in a box that exudes quality even before you open it. Lifting it out, the first thing that strikes you is its solidity; it feels substantial without being cumbersome. The materials feel premium, the finish is flawless, and the handle turns with a smoothness that whispers of meticulously engineered gears within.

Compared to my Shimano Stella 18000 and Penn International VI 50VISX, the Certate SW G 18000 occupies a unique space. The Stella, known for its refinement, feels almost delicate next to the Certate’s robust build. The Penn, a benchmark for brute strength, lacks the Daiwa’s finesse and smooth operation. I chose the Certate SW G 18000 hoping it would deliver a blend of both worlds: power and smoothness, brute force and refined performance.

My initial reaction was one of guarded excitement. The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel certainly looked the part of a high-performance saltwater slayer. However, only time and serious battles with worthy adversaries will reveal if it truly lives up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel was off the coast of North Carolina, targeting bluefin tuna during their fall migration. The conditions were challenging: brisk winds, choppy seas, and the ever-present anticipation of a screaming run from a powerful fish. Paired with a heavy-duty jigging rod and spooled with 80-pound braid, the Certate felt remarkably balanced.

The reel performed flawlessly, even when jigging heavy lures in deep water. The retrieve was smooth and powerful, and the drag was incredibly responsive. I landed a respectable 150-pound tuna on my first outing. The Certate SW G 18000’s drag system proved its worth, smoothly doling out line while maintaining consistent pressure and giving me the confidence to battle the fish effectively.

Using the reel required very little getting used to; its intuitive design and comfortable handle made it feel like a natural extension of my arm. The only minor issue was the slight learning curve involved in adjusting the drag precisely at high settings. However, after a few adjustments, I quickly became comfortable with the system.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of heavy use, the Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel has proven to be an incredibly reliable piece of equipment. I’ve used it on numerous tuna trips, battling everything from smaller schoolies to larger fish pushing 200 pounds. I’ve also put it to work jigging for amberjack around offshore wrecks and bottom fishing for grouper in deeper water.

Despite the constant exposure to saltwater, sun, and the rigors of hard fishing, the Certate SW G 18000 shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish remains pristine, the handle still turns smoothly, and the drag continues to perform flawlessly. Regular rinsing with freshwater after each trip and occasional lubrication are all that’s required to keep it in top condition.

Compared to previous reels I’ve used in similar conditions, the Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel outperforms them in terms of both power and smoothness. My old Penn Slammer III, while durable, felt clunky and underpowered when battling larger tuna. The Certate SW G 18000 offers a level of refinement and raw power that I haven’t experienced in other reels.

Breaking Down the Features of Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel

Specifications

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel boasts impressive specifications that highlight its design for serious saltwater angling. It features an 8+1 bearing count, contributing to its incredibly smooth operation. Its sleek black color makes it as visually appealing as it is functional.

• Monocoque (MQ) Body: Shared with the Daiwa 20 Saltiga, the one-piece body eliminates side plates, enhancing strength and rigidity. This design allows for a larger gear to be housed within.
• G1 Duralumin Drive Gear: Also found in the 20 Saltiga, this gear is incredibly strong and durable, providing exceptional power and longevity.
• ZAION Rotor: Lightweight and rigid, the ZAION rotor contributes to smooth and responsive rotation. It significantly reduces the overall weight of the reel.
• Magsealed Body and Line Roller: Daiwa’s Magseal technology provides exceptional protection against saltwater intrusion, ensuring long-term reliability.
• Multi-Layer Carbon Drag: Delivers significantly increased drag durability compared to previous models. The new washer design and aluminum radiation drag knob enhance heat dissipation, improving drag performance under heavy load.
• Soft-Touch Egg-Shaped Knob: Provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet.

These specifications translate to a reel that is incredibly powerful, smooth, and durable, perfectly suited for battling large saltwater gamefish. The combination of the MQ body, G1 Duralumin drive gear, and ZAION rotor creates a reel that is both lightweight and incredibly strong.

Performance & Functionality

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel excels in its primary function: landing large, powerful fish. Its smooth drag, powerful retrieve, and robust construction inspire confidence in even the most challenging situations. It consistently delivers exceptional performance.

The Certate SW G 18000 exceeds expectations in almost every aspect. The only minor weakness is the learning curve associated with fine-tuning the drag at high settings, which can be easily overcome with practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel features a sleek and functional design. The all-black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The reel feels solid and well-built in hand.

The ergonomics are excellent, with the egg-shaped knob providing a comfortable and secure grip. While the reel is substantial, it’s surprisingly well-balanced, minimizing fatigue during long days of fishing.

Durability & Maintenance

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel is built to last. The MQ body, Magsealed construction, and high-quality materials ensure exceptional durability even in harsh saltwater environments. Regular rinsing and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Repairing the reel would likely require sending it to a Daiwa authorized service center due to the complexity of its internal components. However, with proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel comes with a reel bag for storage and protection. While there aren’t many aftermarket customization options specifically designed for this reel, the handle knob can be replaced with compatible aftermarket options. The reel is also compatible with a wide range of high-quality braided lines.

Pros and Cons of Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel

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Who Should Buy Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel?

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel is perfect for serious saltwater anglers targeting large, powerful gamefish. It’s ideal for tuna fishing, jigging for amberjack, and bottom fishing for grouper. This reel is also well-suited for anglers who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from their equipment.

Anglers on a tight budget or those who only fish occasionally may find the Certate SW G 18000’s price point prohibitive. Less experienced anglers might also find its power and sensitivity overwhelming.

A high-quality rod designed for heavy saltwater fishing and premium braided line are must-have accessories to maximize the Certate SW G 18000’s performance.

Conclusion on Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel

The Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel is a truly exceptional piece of fishing equipment. It combines brute strength, silky smooth operation, and exceptional durability in a package that inspires confidence on the water. The price is undoubtedly high, but for serious anglers who demand the best, the investment is well worth it.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Daiwa Certate SW G 18000 Spinning Reel to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line saltwater spinning reel. If you’re ready to elevate your angling game and tackle the biggest, baddest fish the ocean has to offer, the Certate SW G 18000 is the perfect tool for the job. Go out there and experience the difference!