Shimano SpeedMaster II 2-Speed Reels

Shimano SpeedMaster II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reels give offshore anglers a practical way to switch from fast line pickup to low-gear cranking power. With an all-metal body, carbon drag, four bearings, and two-speed gearing, this family is built for deep-water bottom fishing, light trolling, and yellowtail or tuna trips where pressure and control matter.

Choose from six listed sizes: 8 II, 10 II, 12 II, 16 II, 20 II, and 25 II. The smaller sizes keep a lighter profile for nearshore work, while the larger models add line capacity and higher maximum drag for deeper water and bigger fish. Confirmed technical rows for SPM12II through SPM25II are shown below; the 8 II and 10 II variants are available, but corresponding technical values were not included in the supplied specification data.

Why Two Speeds Earn Their Keep

Use the high gear when you need quick line pickup, then shift into low gear when a fish gets deep and every turn of the handle needs more leverage. The lever drag gives you a repeatable way to manage pressure during the fight. The trade-off is extra weight and a more involved reel than a single-speed model, but that added control pays off when deep-water cranking power matters.

Built for the Work Offshore Demands

Models & Confirmed Specifications

The values below are listed by model, not price, so you can compare the reel to your line plan and target species.

Monofilament Line Capacity

Capacities are shown as pounds/yards.

PowerPro Braid Line Capacity

Capacities are shown as pounds/yards.

The Right Pick If...

• You want one conventional reel family for deep-water bottom fishing and light trolling.
• You want low-gear leverage for bigger fish without giving up fast pickup in high gear.
• You are comparing yellowtail and tuna setups and need to match reel size to line capacity.
• You prefer a rigid metal-bodied reel with lever-drag control over a lighter single-speed design.

Best Techniques & Conditions

The SpeedMaster II is a strong fit for nearshore and offshore trips, especially deep-water bottom fishing and light trolling. Use high gear when you need to recover line quickly, and shift to low gear when depth, current, or a hard-running fish makes each crank count. For yellowtail or tuna, compare the capacity tables with your planned mono or PowerPro braid before choosing a size.

Tackle Express Tips

• Plan the spool first: Start with the line capacity table, then choose the smallest model that gives you the reserve you need.
• Use the gears with purpose: High gear is for pickup; low gear is for controlled pressure and deep-water cranking.
• Match the rod: Pair the reel with a conventional rod rated for your line class and technique rather than choosing by reel size alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shimano SpeedMaster II a two-speed reel?

Yes. The family uses high and low gear ratios, with the exact ratios varying by model. SPM12II and SPM16II are listed at 5.7:1 / 3.1:1, while SPM20II and SPM25II are listed at 5.2:1 / 2.3:1.

Which SpeedMaster II size should I choose?

Choose based on your target line plan, depth, and fish size. The SPM12II and SPM16II are lighter and list 40 pounds of maximum drag, while the SPM20II and SPM25II provide more listed capacity and 44 pounds of maximum drag.

What line can I spool on these reels?

The confirmed tables above include both monofilament and PowerPro braid capacities for SPM12II, SPM16II, SPM20II, and SPM25II. The 8 II and 10 II variants are available, but their corresponding line-capacity values were not included in the supplied specifications.

Complete the Setup

For a bait-fishing setup, pair your reel with Shimano Teramar West Coast Inshore Casting Rods. For vertical jigging, compare it with Shimano Grappler Type J Conventional Jigging Rods. You can also compare the full Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the complete Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.