Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD vs Shimano Catana FE 2500X

The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD

Seafishing

75.70 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics3.4 out of 10

Gear ratio2.4:1

Maximum drag43kg / 94.8lbs

Weight2300g / 81.13oz

Line retireve per crank53 centimeter / 20.87 inch

Ball bearings20

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €1,245.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size-
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeStar drag
Handle orientationRight
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.4/1660

Shimano Catana FE

Spinning

51.90 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability2.67 out of 10

Ergonomics6.13 out of 10

Gear ratio5.0:1

Maximum drag4kg / 8.82lbs

Weight260g / 9.17oz

Line retireve per crank73 centimeter / 28.74 inch

Ball bearings3+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €30.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

Conclusion

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD clearly outshines Shimano Catana FE 2500X, offering significantly better performance in durability (9.5 out of 10) and maximum drag (43kg / 94,8lbs). While Shimano Catana FE 2500X may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD and Shimano Catana FE?

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD

Built tough for the salt, ideal for seafishing.

Shimano Catana FE 2500X

Thanks to its 6.33 out of 10 (5.0:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
With a score like 8.27 out of 10 (260g / 9,17oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.43 out of 10 (73 centimeter / 28.74 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
The reel scores 7 out of 10 (3+1) in bearings, offering smooth performance for regular use with no issues