Each drag component designed for intense pressure exclusively utilizes metal and abrasion-resistant carbon washers tailored for the Stella SW. In addition to the traditional drag washer located at the bottom, we have enhanced the spool structure to accommodate a large washer with approximately four times the surface area compared to previous models. This advancement significantly boosts drag durability.

Thanks to the combined improvements in drag structure and the incorporation of an integrated heat sink, we have also achieved a reduction in drag force loss due to heat by approximately 30% compared to earlier models. For sizes 18000 and above, a cross-washer system further reinforces durability, enabling a maximum drag force of 30kg (27kg for size 30000).

This evolution in durability directly translates into drag power—giving anglers the strength to maintain control against fish that surge, accelerate, and repeatedly break away.

*Models 5000–8000 are equipped with XX Tough Drag.

By laying the line with meticulous precision, INFINITYLOOP enhances casting distance, casting feel, and drag smoothness. For SW models, Shimano has implemented a thoroughly refined mechanism: a high-strength winding pitch, improved efficiency during line winding to eliminate unnecessary motion, and a two-speed oscillation system that optimizes spool angle. These innovations deliver superior line release performance and reduce trouble.

The benefits extend beyond stable casting feel and increased distance—they also translate into advanced operability for techniques like vertical jigging. Improved responsiveness at the start and stop of winding, combined with stable drag pressure even under fluctuating tension, empowers anglers to dominate the powerful runs of monster fish.

With advancements in gear tooth design and manufacturing technology, INFINITYXROSS expands the contact area where the drive gear and pinion gear mesh. By distributing the load across the gear surfaces, it prevents damage caused by concentrated stress and significantly improves durability. The NEW Stella SW has increased the gear tooth width by approximately 1.3 times compared to the previous model, enabling smooth gear feeling even when winding under heavy loads.

The ANTI-TWIST FIN mechanism places fins near the line roller section to reduce line slack, effectively minimizing the risk of the line getting caught around the spool skirt. By using an elastic material for the fins, it also prevents damage when knots are wound in. In addition, the traditional Fin B that fills gaps is included as before.

The AR-C spool features a specially shaped spool ring that creates a streamlining effect, helping to suppress line troubles and improve long-distance casting performance. The NEW 25 Stella SW is equipped with an improved AR-C design that modifies the spool ring collar to make it less likely for the line to ride on it, reducing line straddling on the spool that can cause tangles.

In addition, during harsh saltwater fishing conditions, the spool ring is subjected to extremely high loads. To address this, the surface of the spool ring is coated with a strong abrasion-resistant barrier, further enhancing durability and reducing damage to the line. This coating ensures the surface remains smooth and scratch-resistant for a longer period of time.

If the spool ring surface becomes damaged, the ring can be replaced individually.

One of the greatest threats in saltwater fishing is seawater intrusion. When seawater enters the reel, it corrodes metal parts and drastically reduces initial performance.

The Stella SW combats this with X-SHIELD, which uses strategically placed seals throughout key areas of the reel, including the body, drag knob, and line roller, to block water entry paths. Notably, the body and stopper have achieved an IPX8 rating, ensuring exceptional water resistance and outstanding reliability even under the harshest SW fishing conditions.

In addition, X-PROTECT introduces a newly refined water-resistant structure that maintains high water resistance while achieving lighter rotation. This innovative design successfully combines two seemingly contradictory elements: superior water resistance and silky-smooth rotation.

The handle knob also features a water-resistant structure

STELLA SW, with every part refined in detail, features a newly designed drag knob that is approximately 25% larger(*) in diameter to further improve operability.

This makes it easier to grip the knob for instant adjustments and allows for finer, more precise tuning.

It provides a clear advantage when tightening or loosening the drag instantly during the fight with large fish.

*Applicable to 8000-size models and larger.

STELLA SW is engineered for serious battles with giant fish, with every detail thoroughly focused on strength.

Especially in large sizes of 18000 and above, body strength has been improved by approximately 25% compared to the previous model.

Furthermore, the newly developed XX TOUGH DRAG is adopted, delivering more than 10 times the durability while maintaining the smooth drag response that is a hallmark of STELLA SW.

During high-drag situations where the line is pulled out at high speed, heat buildup can cause a decrease in drag force.

STELLA SW features high heat dissipation performance through the synergy of XX TOUGH DRAG and HEATSINK DRAG, greatly suppressing the drop in initial drag force.

With more than 30% improvement over previous models, it achieves class-leading heat resistance.*

The completely renewed STELLA SW meets the trust of anglers who face giant fish head-on in oceans around the world.

*Based on Shimano’s internal comparison tests.

The rotor features a high-rigidity X RIGID ROTOR, specially designed for the 8000 size.

Compared to the 10000 size, the rotor is approximately 5 mm more compact, resulting in lower inertia and, together with the spool, about 50 g lighter in weight.

This greatly enhances operability and comfort not only for casting but also for jigging.

With its optimal size and usability, it is the perfect match for rock shore and offshore jigging and casting games, especially when using PE3–4 class lines.

INFINITY CONNECT is a design philosophy that creates even greater synergy by developing reels, rods, and gear as integrated systems.

The new STELLA SW delivers further benefits to anglers when paired with rods such as OCEA PLUGGER LIMITED, COLTSNIPER XTUNE, and OCEA PLUGGER BG, as well as the OCEA 17+ PE line.