Shimano SLX BFS 2021 Bait Finesse Reel, 8.2:1 Gear Ratio, Left-Hand

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Item weight: 0.01 Kilograms
Product dimensions: 5.91 x 5.2 x 3.54 inches

Quick take

A left-hand bait finesse reel with high 8.2 gear ratio for quick retrievals with small lures.

This is a left-handle bait finesse baitcasting reel built for casting light lures. Its 8.2:1 gear ratio brings in about 82 cm of line per turn, which suits fast retrieves and quick pickups of slack. It weighs around 170 grams and tops out at 3.5 kg of drag, so it fits anglers working small jigs, plugs and finesse baits on light line.

Best for

Lightweight lure fishing and finesse techniques
Left-handed anglers using baitcasters
Freshwater bass and panfish fishing

Skip if

You fish heavy lures or strong saltwater conditions
You prefer right-hand retrieve

Strengths

Lightweight finesse design ideal for small lures
High 8.2 gear ratio speeds up lure recovery
Quality Shimano construction and smoothness

Trade-offs

Low drag capacity limits use with large fish
Finesse design not suited for heavy cover or saltwater
Left-hand only; right-hand option not available

Fishing fit

Species: Bass
Panfish
Crappie
Water: Freshwater
Techniques: Flipping & pitching
Casting
Finesse
Skill level: Intermediate

Specifications

Specifications
Type	bait finesse low-profile reel
Hand orientation	Left
Gear ratio	8.2:1
Max drag	3.5 kg
Line capacity	30 lb / 135 yds
Material	Stainless steel

Updated 21 October 2026