Overview
Earning the nickname of the “Dark Horse Stella” in some circles, the Shimano Exsence A Spinning Reel employs many similar design features of the Stella in a more rugged and affordable package. Originally designed for inshore salt-water fishing, the Exsence A is quickly gaining popularity with freshwater anglers using fine braided lines. The combination of Micro Module gearing and the rigid, immensely strong Hagane G free Body results in a very strong and smooth-running reel that stays in balance while reeling at high speeds.
At the heart of the Exsence A Spinning Reel is Shimano’s proprietary cold forged Hagane Gear, which delivers maximum cranking power and durability for lasting performance. The magnumlite MGL rotor is 25% lighter, contributes to better balance, and requires less start up inertia allowing anglers to control the start-and-stop retrieval of jigs and lures more efficiently.
Constructed with S A-RB bearings, a waterproof drag, and an X-Protect coated magnesium frame, Exsence A provides anti-corrosive performance and boasts high-level water resistance without sacrificing rotor rotation. Embracing a perfect balance of a lightweight feel and durability, the Shimano Exsence A Spinning Reel is built to provide peak performance by utilizing all of Shimano’s flagship technologies.
Features:
- S A-RB Bearings: 11+1
- Aero Wrap II Oscillation
- Hagane Gear
- Hagane G free Body
- MGL Rotor
- X-protect
- X-ship
- Waterproof Drag
- One-piece Bail
Specifications
| Model | Retrieve | Gear Ratio | Weight | Line Cap. | Bearings | |
| EXSC3000MHGA | Right/Left | 6.0:1 | 6.3 | 8/110 | 11BB + 1RB | Buy Now |
| EXS4000MXGA | Right/Left | 6.2:1 | 7.8 | 8/120 | 11BB + 1RB | Buy Now |
Previous Feedback
Comments: Bought the new Exsence A late summer for river fishing smallmouth here in Minnesota, and I've gotta say that it is without a doubt the finest spinning reel money can buy. I own the previous gen Exsence which is still going to this day, 4 years later, butter smooth with ZERO maintenance. The newer Exsence A is paired up with a 6' 10 Med-Light Expride and it is an INSANE piece of fishing equipment. The lightest, most balanced combo I own. Used mostly with 15lb power pro to a 6-8lb Tatsu flouro leader, it excels at light ned rigs and dropshots, but has also thrown smaller jerkbaits, finesse paddle tails, hair jigs, and even some larger crappie lures. The Exsence, is light as a feather, solid as iron, sensitive as can be, and will last a lifetime if halfway taken care of. Do yourself a favor and purchase this reel along with an Expride spinning rod, they are quite literally made for each other.
From: Cooper: Minnesota 3/22/23
Comments: Wow! Picked up this reel last week and I am amazed with its performance. Light, perfect line lay on the spool, cast ability is second to none! Definitely will buy another it's not just a pretty face! My new favorite reel! Better overall performance than my Certate LT which is a solid reel! Thanks, Tackle Warehouse Black Friday sale.
From: Tim: Dallas, Ga 12/2/22
Comments: I purchased this reel several months ago and really wanted to use it before leaving a review. I have a few high end spinning reels from Daiwa and Shimano and this has been the one that I've continuously reached for this summer. It's just fun to use - super smooth, really lightweight, great drag, casts really well, I haven't had any wind knots or anything come up. Not to mention it is one of the best looking reels I've ever seen! I have the 3000HG and it's perfect for my bass fishing needs, I would say if you're looking into getting one, do it!
From: Jacob: Illinois 8/26/22
Comments: No doubt it is a pricy spinning reel, but what a pleasure it is to fish with. I have a few of them now and can say it's the best spinning reel I've ever fished with. Lightweight, but behaves like a "lightweight champion", with a drag like no other - you can fine tune it so much more than on other reels, even the VanFord, which is no slouch! If you love your spinning gear, you owe it to yourself to experience some of the best there is.
From: BJ: New Fairfield, CT 1/12/22
Comments: Just took my new 2021 Shimano Exsence C3000 M for its maiden trip. The Exsence is great reel. It is extremely light weight but does not feel cheap or under-built. The Exsence cast effortlessly and drag is buttery smooth and constant. The gearing is silent and tolerances are spot on. I'm am more than VERY pleased with the reel!! You will not be disappointed.
From: Brad: Champaign, IL 9/19/21
Comments: butter; so smooth; super high quality. You get what you pay for in life and fishing. handles largemouth with ease, and cast a mile with (zero) wind knots.... Its a must for bass fishing...A++++
From: John: Bend, OR 7/4/21