Shimano Casting Reels
Shimano has been in business since 1921, as one of the world's foremost
producers of bicycle gearing systems. However, their entry into the fishing
tackle manufacturing world did not start until the mid-1970's when they
began producing the Lew's Speed Spool for Lew Childre Co. of Foley, Alabama.
Shimano recognized many of the revolutionary ideas found in the Speed
Spool and began developing a line of their own reels similar to the Speed
Spool - the Original Bantams. Lew Childre soon broke relations with Shimano
and in the late 1970's turned to Ryobi as a contract manufacturer of the
Speed Spool.
Shimano introduced their Bantam line of reels in 1978 at the American
Fishing Tackle Manufacturer's Association (AFTMA) trade show. They were an
instantaneous hit and the Shimano floodgates were opened. Today, Shimano is
one of the most recognized names in the fishing tackle world and their
tackle lineup includes, rods, reels, baits, and accessories. This section
will only delve into the history of their low profile casting reels.
► The
Original Bantams
► The Bantam Mag
►
