Shimano – TLD II Lever Drag Reels

Description

The Shimano TLD II is one of the most proven ways to step into true two-speed offshore tackle without stepping into the weight or price of a machined-aluminum flagship reel. Its strong one-piece graphite body keeps the reel comparatively light and naturally resistant to corrosion, while a stainless-steel drive gear, pinion gear and main shaft give the drivetrain the strength required for tuna, sharks and canyon fishing. The aluminum spool, A-RB corrosion-resistant bearings and loud strike alarm complete a layout that has earned the TLD a long reputation for simple, dependable big-game performance.

Port Tackle currently sells three two-speed TLD models, and each fills a different Northeast role. The TLD30IIA is the most compact option on the page, weighing 37.5 ounces and combining a 4.0:1 high gear with a 1.7:1 low gear. It carries 910 yards of 80-pound PowerPro and produces 33 pounds of max drag, making it a very capable stand-up reel for bluefin, yellowfin, mahi, sharks and traditional canyon bait or trolling outfits. The TLD50IIA adds the line reserve of a true 50-class reel, holding 920 yards of 100-pound PowerPro with 37 pounds of max drag and a 3.5:1 / 1.7:1 two-speed drivetrain.

The TLD50IILRSA is the heavy-pressure version of the family. It shares the 50IIA chassis and braid capacity but increases published maximum drag to 42 pounds and drops low gear further to 1.4:1 with 15 inches of line recovery per crank. That deeper reduction is meaningful when a large bluefin or bigeye settles under the boat and leverage matters more than speed. Shimano also equips the TLD II family with an aluminum power handle and oil-ported torpedo knob for a secure grip under load. For Port Tackle customers, the 30IIA is the best all-around stand-up/canyon choice, the standard 50IIA is the capacity-first heavy offshore reel, and the 50IILRSA is the model to choose when heavier working drag and maximum low-gear leverage are the priorities.